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Di Paolo M, Corsi F, Cerri C, Bisti S, Piano I, Gargini C. A Window to the Brain: The Retina to Monitor the Progression and Efficacy of Saffron Repron ® Pre-Treatment in an LPS Model of Neuroinflammation and Memory Impairment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1307. [PMID: 37765115 PMCID: PMC10536337 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091307] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A mechanism shared by most neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), is neuroinflammation. It has been shown to have a link between cognitive impairment and retinal function under neuroinflammatory conditions, confirming the essential role of the retina as a window to the brain. Here, we characterize a mouse model of LPS-induced neuroinflammation describing the parallel deterioration of both memory and visual function. Then, we demonstrate, using the Novel Object Recognition test (NOR) and electroretinogram (ERG) recordings, that preventive, chronic treatment with saffron Repron® is able to reduce the neuroinflammation process and prevent the impairment of both cognitive and visual function. The improvement in behavioral and visual function is confirmed by the pattern of expression of neuroinflammation-related genes and related proteins where pre-treatment with Repron® saffron presents a positive modulation compared with that obtained in animals treated with LPS alone. These results hold for retinal tissue and partially in the brain, where it appears that the onset of damage was delayed. This trend underlines the critical role of the retina as a most sensitive portion of the central nervous system to LPS-induced damage and could be used as a "sensor" for the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
| | - Francesca Corsi
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Chiara Cerri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
| | - Ilaria Piano
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Claudia Gargini
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Di Paolo M, Corsi F, Maggi M, Nardi L, Bisti S, Piano I, Gargini C. Efficacy of Hydroponically Cultivated Saffron in the Preservation of Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041699. [PMID: 36838685 PMCID: PMC9962550 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041699] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron treatment is a broad-spectrum therapy used for several retinal diseases, and its effectiveness depends on a particular molecular composition (REPRON® saffron). Its production requires specific crops and procedures that, together with low yields, make this spice expensive. To reduce costs, the use of hydroponic crops is gradually increasing. In this study, we tested the protective properties of a hydroponic saffron (sH) batch in models of retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) degeneration. ARPE-19 cells were pretreated with 40 µg/mL saffron and exposed to different types of damage: excess light and retinol (LE + RET) or oxidative stress (H2O2). After analyzing the composition of all saffron types with spectroscopy, we performed cell viability and immunofluorescence analysis for both protocols. We compared the sH results with those of a validated batch of saffron REPRON® (sR) and those of a saffron non-REPRON® (sNR) batch. sH and sR, which we found had the same chemical composition, were more effective than sNR in increasing cell survival and attenuating the morphological changes related to apoptosis. In conclusion, hydroponic culturing is a suitable strategy to produce high-quality saffron to reduce costs and increase the accessibility of this promising treatment for retinal degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Louisville, Kentucky, KY 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), V. le Medaglie D’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Francesca Corsi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Maggi
- Hortus Novus srl, via Campo Sportivo 2, 67050 Canistro, Italy
- Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 Coppito, Italy
| | - Luca Nardi
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), V. le Medaglie D’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Piano
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), V. le Medaglie D’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudia Gargini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), V. le Medaglie D’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
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Nardi L, Metelli G, Garegnani M, Villani ME, Massa S, Bennici E, Lamanna R, Catellani M, Bisti S, Maggi MA, Demurtas OC, Benvenuto E, Desiderio A. Farming for Pharming: Novel Hydroponic Process in Contained Environment for Efficient Pharma-Grade Production of Saffron. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27248972. [PMID: 36558107 PMCID: PMC9784412 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248972] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Soilless cultivation of saffron (Crocus sativus) in a controlled environment represents an interesting alternative to field cultivation, in order to obtain a standardized high-quality product and to optimize yields. In particular, pharma-grade saffron is fundamental for therapeutic applications of this spice, whose efficacy has been demonstrated in the treatment of macular diseases, such as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). In this work, a hydroponic cultivation system was developed, specifically designed to meet the needs of C. sativus plant. Various cultivation recipes, different in spectrum and intensity of lighting, temperature, photoperiod and irrigation, have been adopted to study their effect on saffron production. The experimentation involved the cultivation of corms from two subsequent farm years, to identify and validate the optimal conditions, both in terms of quantitative yield and as accumulation of bioactive metabolites, with particular reference to crocins and picrocrocin, which define the 'pharma-grade' quality of saffron. Through HPLC analysis and chromatography it was possible to identify the cultivation parameters suitable for the production of saffron with neuroprotective properties, evaluated by comparison with an ISO standard and the REPRON® procedure. Furthermore, the biochemical characterization was completed through NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry analyses of saffron extracts. The whole experimental framework allowed to establish an optimized protocol to produce pharma-grade saffron, allowing up to 3.2 g/m2 harvest (i.e., more than three times higher than field production in optimal conditions), which meets the standards of composition for the therapy of AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Nardi
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Giulio Metelli
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Marco Garegnani
- DAER—Department of Aerospace Science and Technology, Politecnico of Milano, 20100 Milan, MI, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Villani
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Silvia Massa
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bennici
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Raffaele Lamanna
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Trisaia Research Center, 75026 Rotondella, MT, Italy
| | - Marcello Catellani
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Trisaia Research Center, 75026 Rotondella, MT, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Viale Medaglie D’Oro 305, 00136 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Maria Anna Maggi
- Hortus Novus Srl, Via Campo Sportivo 2, 67050 Canistro, AQ, Italy
| | - Olivia C. Demurtas
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Eugenio Benvenuto
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
| | - Angiola Desiderio
- ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Casaccia Research Center, 00123 Rome, RM, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-3048-4176
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Maggi MA, Consonni R, Cagliani LR, Prestipino G, Bisti S, Picco C. Saffron and retinal neurodegenerative diseases: Relevance of chemical composition. J Anat 2022. [PMID: 35778985 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13722] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron is an ancient spice largely used in traditional medicine. It has been found to be effective in treatment of retinal neurodegenerative diseases like age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt. In the present manuscript, it is shown that saffron's neuroprotective power is strongly related to the bioactivity of all its chemical components. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and "in vitro" experiments confirm the relevance of crocins for saffron efficacy. These results underline the importance of strictly defining the chemical composition of the natural compounds in saffron to optimize their effectiveness in the treatment of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Maggi
- Hortus Novus srl, Canistro, Italy.,Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Coppito, Italy
| | - Roberto Consonni
- Lab. NMR, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies "G. Natta" (SCITEC), National Research Council, Milan, Italy.,National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - Laura R Cagliani
- Lab. NMR, Institute of Chemical Sciences and Technologies "G. Natta" (SCITEC), National Research Council, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Bisti
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), Rome, Italy.,Department of Biotecnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, DISCAB, University of L'Aquila, Coppito, Italy
| | - Cristiana Picco
- National Institute of Biostructure and Biosystem (INBB), Rome, Italy.,Institute of Biophysics (IBF), National Research Council, Genoa, Italy
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Francia S, Shmal D, Di Marco S, Chiaravalli G, Maya-Vetencourt JF, Mantero G, Michetti C, Cupini S, Manfredi G, DiFrancesco ML, Rocchi A, Perotto S, Attanasio M, Sacco R, Bisti S, Mete M, Pertile G, Lanzani G, Colombo E, Benfenati F. Light-induced charge generation in polymeric nanoparticles restores vision in advanced-stage retinitis pigmentosa rats. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3677. [PMID: 35760799 PMCID: PMC9237035 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31368-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal dystrophies such as Retinitis pigmentosa are among the most prevalent causes of inherited legal blindness, for which treatments are in demand. Retinal prostheses have been developed to stimulate the inner retinal network that, initially spared by degeneration, deteriorates in the late stages of the disease. We recently reported that conjugated polymer nanoparticles persistently rescue visual activities after a single subretinal injection in the Royal College of Surgeons rat model of Retinitis pigmentosa. Here we demonstrate that conjugated polymer nanoparticles can reinstate physiological signals at the cortical level and visually driven activities when microinjected in 10-months-old Royal College of Surgeons rats bearing fully light-insensitive retinas. The extent of visual restoration positively correlates with the nanoparticle density and hybrid contacts with second-order retinal neurons. The results establish the functional role of organic photovoltaic nanoparticles in restoring visual activities in fully degenerate retinas with intense inner retina rewiring, a stage of the disease in which patients are subjected to prosthetic interventions. Retinal dystrophies such as Retinitis pigmentosa are among the most prevalent causes of inherited incurable legal blindness. Here the authors demonstrate that conjugated polymer nanoparticles reinstate visual functions in aged rats with fully degenerated and rewired retinas.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Francia
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - D Shmal
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - S Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - G Chiaravalli
- Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - J F Maya-Vetencourt
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - G Mantero
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - C Michetti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - S Cupini
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - G Manfredi
- Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy.,Novavido s.r.l., Bologna, Italy
| | - M L DiFrancesco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - A Rocchi
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - S Perotto
- Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - M Attanasio
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Sacrocuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - R Sacco
- Department of Mathematics, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - S Bisti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - M Mete
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Sacrocuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - G Pertile
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS Sacrocuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - G Lanzani
- Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy. .,Department of Physics, Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - E Colombo
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - F Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy. .,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.
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Ortolan D, Sharma R, Volkov A, Maminishkis A, Hotaling NA, Huryn LA, Cukras C, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Bharti K. Single-cell-resolution map of human retinal pigment epithelium helps discover subpopulations with differential disease sensitivity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2117553119. [PMID: 35522714 PMCID: PMC9171647 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2117553119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Regional phenotypic and functional differences in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) monolayer have been suggested to account for regional susceptibility in ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), late-onset retinal degeneration (L-ORD), and choroideremia (CHM). However, a comprehensive description of human topographical RPE diversity is not yet available, thus limiting the understanding of regional RPE diversity and degenerative disease sensitivity in the eye. To develop a complete morphometric RPE map of the human eye, artificial intelligence–based software was trained to recognize, segment, and analyze RPE borders. Five statistically different, concentric RPE subpopulations (P1 to P5) were identified using cell area as a parameter, including a subpopulation (P4) with cell area comparable to that of macular cells in the far periphery of the eye. This work provides a complete reference map of human RPE subpopulations and their location in the eye. In addition, the analysis of cadaver non-AMD and AMD eyes and ultra-widefield fundus images of patients revealed differential vulnerability of the five RPE subpopulations to different retinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ortolan
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Ruchi Sharma
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Andrei Volkov
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Arvydas Maminishkis
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Nathan A. Hotaling
- Information Resources Technology Branch, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Laryssa A. Huryn
- Ophthalmic Clinical Genetics Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Catherine Cukras
- Unit on Clinical Investigation of Retinal Disease, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Kapil Bharti
- Ocular and Stem Cell Translational Research Section, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892
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Riccitelli S, Di Paolo M, Ashley J, Bisti S, Di Marco S. The Timecourses of Functional, Morphological, and Molecular Changes Triggered by Light Exposure in Sprague-Dawley Rat Retinas. Cells 2021; 10:1561. [PMID: 34205615 PMCID: PMC8234029 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [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: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinal neurodegeneration can impair visual perception at different levels, involving not only photoreceptors, which are the most metabolically active cells, but also the inner retina. Compensatory mechanisms may hide the first signs of these impairments and reduce the likelihood of receiving timely treatments. Therefore, it is essential to characterize the early critical steps in the neurodegenerative progression to design adequate therapies. This paper describes and correlates early morphological and biochemical changes in the degenerating retina with in vivo functional analysis of retinal activity and investigates the progression of neurodegenerative stages for up to 7 months. For these purposes, Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 1000 lux light either for different durations (12 h to 24 h) and examined seven days afterward (7d) or for a fixed duration (24 h) and monitored at various time points following the exposure (up to 210d). Flash electroretinogram (fERG) recordings were correlated with morphological and histological analyses to evaluate outer and inner retinal disruptions, gliosis, trophic factor release, and microglial activation. Twelve hours or fifteen hours of exposure to constant light led to a severe retinal dysfunction with only minor morphological changes. Therefore, early pathological signs might be hidden by compensatory mechanisms that silence retinal dysfunction, accounting for the discrepancy between photoreceptor loss and retinal functional output. The long-term analysis showed a transient functional recovery, maximum at 45 days, despite a progressive loss of photoreceptors and coincident increases in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and basic fibroblast growth factor-2 (bFGF-2) expression. Interestingly, the progression of the disease presented different patterns in the dorsal and ventral retina. The information acquired gives us the potential to develop a specific diagnostic tool to monitor the disease's progression and treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Riccitelli
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.R.); (M.D.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.R.); (M.D.P.); (S.B.)
| | - James Ashley
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.R.); (M.D.P.); (S.B.)
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), 00136 Roma, Italy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.R.); (M.D.P.); (S.B.)
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), 00136 Roma, Italy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, 16132 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
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8
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Maya-Vetencourt JF, Di Marco S, Mete M, Di Paolo M, Ventrella D, Barone F, Elmi A, Manfredi G, Desii A, Sannita WG, Bisti S, Lanzani G, Pertile G, Bacci ML, Benfenati F. Biocompatibility of a Conjugated Polymer Retinal Prosthesis in the Domestic Pig. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:579141. [PMID: 33195139 PMCID: PMC7605258 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.579141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The progressive degeneration of retinal photoreceptors is one of the most significant causes of blindness in humans. Conjugated polymers represent an attractive solution to the field of retinal prostheses, and a multi-layer fully organic prosthesis implanted subretinally in dystrophic Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats was able to rescue visual functions. As a step toward human translation, we report here the fabrication and in vivo testing of a similar device engineered to adapt to the human-like size of the eye of the domestic pig, an excellent animal paradigm to test therapeutic strategies for photoreceptors degeneration. The active conjugated polymers were layered onto two distinct passive substrates, namely electro-spun silk fibroin (ESF) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Naive pigs were implanted subretinally with the active device in one eye, while the contralateral eye was sham implanted with substrate only. Retinal morphology and functionality were assessed before and after surgery by means of in vivo optical coherence tomography and full-field electroretinogram (ff-ERG) analysis. After the sacrifice, the retina morphology and inflammatory markers were analyzed by immunohistochemistry of the excised retinas. Surprisingly, ESF-based prostheses caused a proliferative vitreoretinopathy with disappearance of the ff-ERG b-wave in the implanted eyes. In contrast, PET-based active devices did not evoke significant inflammatory responses. As expected, the subretinal implantation of both PET only and the PET-based prosthesis locally decreased the thickness of the outer nuclear layer due to local photoreceptor loss. However, while the implantation of the PET only substrate decreased the ff-ERG b-wave amplitude with respect to the pre-implant ERG, the eyes implanted with the active device fully preserved the ERG responses, indicating an active compensation of the surgery-induced photoreceptor loss. Our findings highlight the possibility of developing a new generation of conjugated polymer/PET-based prosthetic devices that are highly biocompatible and potentially suitable for subretinal implantation in patients suffering from degenerative blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Fernando Maya-Vetencourt
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mete
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Domenico Ventrella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Barone
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alberto Elmi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Manfredi
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Desii
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Walter G Sannita
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario INBB, Rome, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Bacci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico, San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy
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9
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Güllü N, Kobelt D, Brim H, Rahman S, Timm L, Smith J, Soleimani A, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Ashktorab H, Stein U. Saffron Crudes and Compounds Restrict MACC1-Dependent Cell Proliferation and Migration of Colorectal Cancer Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081829. [PMID: 32756469 PMCID: PMC7463853 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The high mortality rate of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients is directly associated with metastatic dissemination. However, therapeutic options specifically for metastasis are still limited. We previously identified Metastasis-Associated in Colon Cancer 1 (MACC1) as a major causal metastasis-inducing gene. Numerous studies confirmed its value as a biomarker for metastasis risk. We investigated the inhibitory impact of saffron on MACC1-induced cancer cell growth and motility. Saffron crudes restricted the proliferation and migration of MACC1-expressing CRC cells in a concentration- and MACC1-dependent manner. Saffron delays cell cycle progression at G2/M-phase and does not induce apoptosis. Rescue experiments showed that these effects are reversible. Analysis of active saffron compounds elucidated that crocin was the main compound that reproduced total saffron crudes effects. We showed the interaction of MACC1 with the cancer stem cell (CSC) marker DCLK1, which contributes to metastasis formation in different tumor entities. Saffron extracts reduced DCLK1 with crocin being responsible for this reduction. Saffron's anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects in MACC1-expressing cells are mediated by crocin through DCLK1 down-regulation. This research is the first identification of saffron-based compounds restricting cancer cell proliferation and motility progression via the novel target MACC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Güllü
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dennis Kobelt
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hassan Brim
- College of Medicine & Cancer Center, Howard University 2041 Georgia Av. NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA;
- Correspondence: (H.B.); (H.A.); (U.S.); Tel.: +1-202-806-4198 (H.B.); +1-202-806-6121 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.); Fax: +1-202-667-1686 (H.B.); +1-202-667-1686 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.)
| | - Shaman Rahman
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
| | - Lena Timm
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
| | - Janice Smith
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
| | - Akbar Soleimani
- College of Medicine & Cancer Center, Howard University 2041 Georgia Av. NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA;
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, The Italian Institute of Technology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Silvia Bisti
- NetS3 Laboratory Neuroscience and Brain Technologies (NBT), The Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), Via Morego 30, 16128 Genova, Italy;
- Consorzio Interuniversitario INBB Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi, V.le Medaglie D’Oro, 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- College of Medicine & Cancer Center, Howard University 2041 Georgia Av. NW, Washington, DC 20059, USA;
- Correspondence: (H.B.); (H.A.); (U.S.); Tel.: +1-202-806-4198 (H.B.); +1-202-806-6121 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.); Fax: +1-202-667-1686 (H.B.); +1-202-667-1686 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.)
| | - Ulrike Stein
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany; (N.G.); (D.K.); (S.R.); (L.T.); (J.S.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (H.B.); (H.A.); (U.S.); Tel.: +1-202-806-4198 (H.B.); +1-202-806-6121 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.); Fax: +1-202-667-1686 (H.B.); +1-202-667-1686 (H.A.); +49-30-9406-3432 (U.S.)
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10
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Ciavarella C, Buzzi M, Bergantin E, Di Marco S, Giannaccare G, Campos E, Bisti S, Versura P. Effects of Cord Blood Serum (CBS) on viability of retinal Müller glial cells under in vitro injury. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234145. [PMID: 32497126 PMCID: PMC7272066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and inflammation determine retinal ganglion cell degeneration, leading to retinal impairment and vision loss. Müller glial cells regulate retinal repair under injury, through gliosis. Meanwhile, reactive gliosis can turn in pathological effects, contributing to neurodegeneration. In the present study, we tested whether Cord Blood Serum (CBS), rich of growth factors, might improve the viability of Müller cells under in vitro damage. BDNF, NGF, TGF-α, GDNF and EGF levels were measured in CBS samples by Human Magnetic Luminex Assay. CBS effects were evaluated on rat (rMC-1) and human (MIO-M1) Müller cells, under H2O2 and IL-1β damage. Cells grown with FBS or CBS both at 5% were exposed to stress and analyzed in terms of cell viability, GFAP, IL-6 and TNF-α expression. CBS was also administrated after treatment with K252a, inhibitor of the neurotrophin receptor Trk. Cell viability of rMC-1 and MIO-M1 resulted significantly improved when pretreated with CBS and exposed to H2O2 and IL-1β, in comparison to the standard culture with FBS. Accordingly, the gliosis marker GFAP resulted down-regulated following CBS priming. In parallel, we observed a lower expression of the inflammatory mediators in rMC-1 (TNF-α) and MIO-M1 (IL-6, TNF- α), especially in presence of inflammatory damage. Trk inhibition through K252a administration impaired the effects of CBS under stress conditions on MIO-M1 and rMC-1 viability, not significantly different from FBS condition. CBS is enriched with neurotrophins and its administration to rMC-1 and MIO-M1 attenuates the cytotoxic effects of H2O2 and IL-1β. Moreover, the decrease of the main markers of gliosis and inflammation suggests a promising use of CBS for neuroprotection aims. This study is a preliminary basis that prompts future investigations to deeply explore and confirm the CBS potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Ciavarella
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Buzzi
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank-Transfusion Service, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Bergantin
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank-Transfusion Service, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Emilio Campos
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Vision Lab, DISCAB, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
- Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
| | - Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
- * E-mail:
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11
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Di Marco S, Riccitelli S, Di Paolo M, Campos E, Buzzi M, Bisti S, Versura P. Cord Blood Serum (CBS)-Based Eye Drops Modulate Light-Induced Neurodegeneration in Albino Rat Retinas. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050678. [PMID: 32354031 PMCID: PMC7277721 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of visual loss in western countries, it has no cure, and its incidence will grow in the future, for the overall population aging. Albino rats with retinal degeneration induced by exposure to high-intensity light (light-damage, LD) have been extensively used as a model of AMD to test neuroprotective agents. Among them, trophic factors (NGF and BDNF) have been shown to play a significant role in photoreceptors' survival. Interestingly, cord blood serum (CBS) is an extract full of chemokines and trophic factors; we, therefore, hypothesized that CBS could be an excellent candidate for neuroprotection. Here, we investigate whether CBS-based eye drops might mitigate the effects of light-induced retinal degeneration in albino rats. CBS treatment significantly preserved flash-electroretinogram (f-ERG) response after LD and reduced the "hot-spot" extension. Besides, CBS-treated animals better preserved the morphology of the outer nuclear layer, together with a reduction in microglia migration and activation. Interestingly, the treatment did not modulate reactive gliosis and activation of the self-protective mechanism (FGF2). In conclusion, our results suggest that CBS-based eye drops might be successfully used to mitigate retinal neurodegenerative processes such as AMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Di Marco
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 16132 Genova, Italy
- IRCCS, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi, 16132 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.D.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Serena Riccitelli
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Emilio Campos
- Ophthalmology Unit, University of Bologna and S. Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Buzzi
- Emilia Romagna, Cord Blood Bank-Transfusion Service, S. Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy
- NetS3 Laboratory, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego, 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.D.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit, University of Bologna and S. Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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12
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Ciavarella C, Buzzi M, Bergantin E, Coslovi C, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Campos E, Versura P. Cord blood serum (CBS) reduces the expression of GFAP and inflammatory cytokines in retinal Muller cells under stress damage. Acta Ophthalmol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2019.5114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina Buzzi
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank‐Transfusion Service S. Orsola‐Malpighi Teaching Hospital Bologna Italy
| | - Elisa Bergantin
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank‐Transfusion Service S. Orsola‐Malpighi Teaching Hospital Bologna Italy
| | - Chiara Coslovi
- Ophthalmology Unit DIMES ‐ University of Bologna and S.Orsola Malpighi Teaching Hospital Bologna Italy
| | | | - Silvia Bisti
- Vision Lab, DISCAB University of L’Aquila L’Aquila Italy
| | - Emilio Campos
- Ophthalmology Unit DIMES ‐ University of Bologna and S.Orsola Malpighi Teaching Hospital Bologna Italy
| | - Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit DIMES ‐ University of Bologna and S.Orsola Malpighi Teaching Hospital Bologna Italy
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13
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Güllü N, Brim H, Gondre-Lewis M, Bisti S, Shoraka H, Kobelt D, Soleimani A, Timm L, Smith J, Ashktorab H, Stein U. Abstract 1607: Saffron restricts MACC1-dependent cell proliferation and motility of colorectal cancer cells, and alters the microbiome structure. Cancer Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2019-1607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Saffron has proven a beneficial effect as a supplement in the treatment of many conditions through its perceived anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. We previously identified the gene MACC1 and demonstrated its importance as metastasis inducer, prognostic and predictive biomarker for colorectal cancer (CRC). It is confirmed as decisive driver for tumorigenesis and metastasis for a broad range of solid cancers. Therefore, we explored the inhibitory impact of saffron extracts on MACC1-induced cancer cell growth and motility and its effects on the gut microbiome. First, we assessed cell proliferation of MACC1-high and MACC1-low expressing cells using MTT and the IncuCyte real-time cell imaging system. We employed the endogenously MACC1-low expressing colon cancer cell line SW480 and clones with ectopic MACC1 overexpression. In addition, SW620 cells with endogenous high MACC1 expression and CRISPR-Cas9 mediated MACC1 knock-out were used. Cells were treated with increasing amounts of extracts from 4 different saffron species and concentration-dependent proliferation was analyzed by MTT assay. Changes in cell cycle were assessed by FACS. In vitro migration was measured by Boyden chamber assays. Activation of caspases was analyzed by Western blot. In addition, rats treated with saffron had their gut microbiome analyzed through 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal DNA samples. Upon addition of saffron, cells with high MACC1 expression showed a growth delay compared to cells with reduced MACC1 expression. Further, MACC1-dependent migration was reduced when cells were treated with saffron extracts. We did not find activation of caspases, but we showed a cell cycle arrest of MACC1 positive cells treated with saffron extracts. Using real-time measurement of cell proliferation we identified crocin as most active compound, in our system. Furthermore, rats fed with saffron showed major changes at the phylum level of their gut microbiome. A dramatic reduction/depletion of Cyanobacteria and Proteobacteria and a decrease of Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio was found within the saffron treated rats. These reductions were accompanied by enrichment in Spirochaetes, Tenericutes and Candidatus saccharribacteria phyla in these rats. This is the first identification of saffron-based compounds restricting cancer cells proliferation and motility progression via the novel target MACC1. In addition, change of microbiome composition by saffron favors short chain fatty acid synthesis. The use of saffron or some of its extracts might be of therapeutic value to CRC patients.
Citation Format: Nazli Güllü, Hassan Brim, Marjorie Gondre-Lewis, Silvia Bisti, Hamid Shoraka, Dennis Kobelt, Akbar Soleimani, Lena Timm, Janice Smith, Hassan Ashktorab, Ulrike Stein. Saffron restricts MACC1-dependent cell proliferation and motility of colorectal cancer cells, and alters the microbiome structure [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1607.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Güllü
- 1Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, WA
| | | | | | | | | | - Dennis Kobelt
- 1Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, WA
| | | | - Lena Timm
- 1Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, WA
| | - Janice Smith
- 1Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, WA
| | | | - Ulrike Stein
- 3Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany, Washington, DC
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14
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Güllü N, Kobelt D, Brim H, Timm L, Smith J, Shoraka H, Soleimani A, Bisti S, Gondre-Lewis M, Ashktorab H, Stein US. Abstract 1858: Saffron restricts MACC1-dependent cell proliferation and motility of colorectal cancer cells, and alters the microbiome structure. Cancer Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2019-1858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Saffron has proven a beneficial effect as a supplement in the treatment of many conditions through its perceived anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. We previously identified the gene MACC1 and demonstrated its importance as metastasis inducer, prognostic and predictive biomarker for colorectal cancer (CRC). It is confirmed as decisive driver for tumorigenesis and metastasis for a broad range of solid cancers. Therefore, we explored the inhibitory impact of saffron extracts on MACC1-induced cancer cell growth and motility and its effects on the gut microbiome. First, we assessed cell proliferation of MACC1-high and MACC1-low expressing cells using MTT and the IncuCyte real-time cell imaging system. We employed the endogenously MACC1-low expressing colon cancer cell line SW480 and clones with ectopic MACC1 overexpression. In addition, SW620 cells with endogenous high MACC1 expression and CRISPR-Cas9 mediated MACC1 knock-out were used. Cells were treated with increasing amounts of extracts from 4 different saffron species and concentration-dependent proliferation was analyzed by MTT assay. Changes in cell cycle were assessed by FACS. In vitro migration was measured by Boyden chamber assays. Activation of caspases was analyzed by Western blot. In addition, rats treated with saffron had their gut microbiome analyzed through 16S rDNA sequencing of fecal DNA samples. Upon addition of saffron, cells with high MACC1 expression showed a growth delay compared to cells with reduced MACC1 expression. Further, MACC1-dependent migration was reduced when cells were treated with saffron extracts. We did not find activation of caspases, but we showed a cell cycle arrest of MACC1 positive cells treated with saffron extracts. Using real-time measurement of cell proliferation we identified crocin as most active compound, in our system. Furthermore, rats fed with saffron showed major changes at the phylum level of their gut microbiome. A dramatic reduction/depletion of Cyanobacteria and Proteobacteria and a decrease of Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio was found within the saffron treated rats. These reductions were accompanied by enrichment in Spirochaetes, Tenericutes and Candidatus saccharribacteria phyla in these rats. This is the first identification of saffron-based compounds restricting cancer cells proliferation and motility progression via the novel target MACC1. In addition, change of microbiome composition by saffron favors short chain fatty acid synthesis. The use of saffron or some of its extracts might be of therapeutic value to CRC patients.
Citation Format: Nazli Güllü, Dennis Kobelt, Hassan Brim, Lena Timm, Janice Smith, Hamid Shoraka, Akbar Soleimani, Silvia Bisti, Marjorie Gondre-Lewis, Hassan Ashktorab, Ulrike S. Stein. Saffron restricts MACC1-dependent cell proliferation and motility of colorectal cancer cells, and alters the microbiome structure [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 1858.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Güllü
- 1Charité Berlin and Max Delbrück Ctr. for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dennis Kobelt
- 1Charité Berlin and Max Delbrück Ctr. for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Lena Timm
- 1Charité Berlin and Max Delbrück Ctr. for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janice Smith
- 1Charité Berlin and Max Delbrück Ctr. for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ulrike S. Stein
- 1Charité Berlin and Max Delbrück Ctr. for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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15
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Tisi A, Passacantando M, Lozzi L, Riccitelli S, Bisti S, Maccarone R. Retinal long term neuroprotection by Cerium Oxide nanoparticles after an acute damage induced by high intensity light exposure. Exp Eye Res 2019; 182:30-38. [PMID: 30867118 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [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: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cerium Oxide nanoparticles are antioxidant agents with autoregenerative radical scavenging activities, effective in preventing degeneration of photoreceptors of an albino rat when intravitreally injected prior to exposure to high intensity light. In this study, we performed a post injury administration of nanoceria and a long term analysis of their neuroprotective properties in order to better simulate the therapeutic treatment as it is carried out on patients with age related macular degeneration, and while photoreceptor degeneration is ongoing. We also injected nanoceria labelled with fluorescein isothiocianate in order to analyze their persistence after a single administration in a damaged retina and to investigate how long they both maintain their neuroprotective properties and where they localize in the retina. We demonstrated that after a single intravitreal injection, nanoceria remained in the retina for a long time and retained their neuroprotective properties. All these data form excellent bases for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tisi
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - M Passacantando
- Department of Physical and Chemical Science, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 1, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - L Lozzi
- Department of Physical and Chemical Science, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 1, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - S Riccitelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - S Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy; Interuniversity Consortium "Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi" (INBB), Rome, Italy.
| | - R Maccarone
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100, L'Aquila, Italy.
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16
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Stone J, Mitrofanis J, Johnstone DM, Falsini B, Bisti S, Adam P, Nuevo AB, George-Weinstein M, Mason R, Eells J. Acquired Resilience: An Evolved System of Tissue Protection in Mammals. Dose Response 2018; 16:1559325818803428. [PMID: 30627064 PMCID: PMC6311597 DOI: 10.1177/1559325818803428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review brings together observations on the stress-induced regulation of resilience mechanisms in body tissues. It is argued that the stresses that induce tissue resilience in mammals arise from everyday sources: sunlight, food, lack of food, hypoxia and physical stresses. At low levels, these stresses induce an organised protective response in probably all tissues; and, at some higher level, cause tissue destruction. This pattern of response to stress is well known to toxicologists, who have termed it hormesis. The phenotypes of resilience are diverse and reports of stress-induced resilience are to be found in journals of neuroscience, sports medicine, cancer, healthy ageing, dementia, parkinsonism, ophthalmology and more. This diversity makes the proposing of a general concept of induced resilience a significant task, which this review attempts. We suggest that a system of stress-induced tissue resilience has evolved to enhance the survival of animals. By analogy with acquired immunity, we term this system 'acquired resilience'. Evidence is reviewed that acquired resilience, like acquired immunity, fades with age. This fading is, we suggest, a major component of ageing. Understanding of acquired resilience may, we argue, open pathways for the maintenance of good health in the later decades of human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Stone
- Discipline of Physiology, Bosch Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Mitrofanis
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, Bosch Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel M. Johnstone
- Discipline of Physiology, Bosch Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Benedetto Falsini
- Facolta’ di Medicina e Chirurgia, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli, Universita’ Cattolica del S. Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnical and Applied Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, IIT Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia Genova and INBB Istituto Nazionale Biosistemi e Biostrutture, Rome, Italy
| | - Paul Adam
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Arturo Bravo Nuevo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mindy George-Weinstein
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Mason
- Discipline of Physiology, Bosch Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janis Eells
- College of Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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Campos E, Versura P, Giannaccare G, Terzi A, Bisti S, Di Marco S, Buzzi M. Topical Treatment with Cord Blood Serum in Glaucoma Patients: A Preliminary Report. Case Rep Ophthalmol Med 2018; 2018:2381296. [PMID: 30147975 PMCID: PMC6083596 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2381296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report data which happened to be observed in two glaucoma patients treated with Cord Blood Serum (CBS) eye drops. DESIGN A case report and retrospective data analysis. METHODS CBS topical eye drops, characterized in advance for growth factors (GFs) content, were administered for two months with the aim to relieve their subjective symptoms, in two patients who had referred ocular surface discomfort, although in absence of any sign of keratopathy. As patients were also affected by advanced glaucoma at risk of vision loss and under treatment with hypotensive drugs, they had been also monitored over the same period with IOP controls and visual field tests in our unit. RESULTS During subsequent visits, data from Mean Deviation and Pattern Standard Deviation in the visual fields were retrospectively collected and compared with before and after treatment with CBS, and an amelioration was observed. CONCLUSIONS CBS contains a combination of GFs, which potentially exert a neuroprotective action and elect CBS as an interesting natural source to be delivered in neurodegenerative ocular disorders. The incidentally observed amelioration in these two patients deserves further investigation in this respect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Campos
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Piera Versura
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Giannaccare
- Ophthalmology Unit, DIMES, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adriana Terzi
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank-Transfusion Service, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Vision Lab, DISCAB, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Marina Buzzi
- Emilia Romagna Cord Blood Bank-Transfusion Service, S.Orsola-Malpighi Teaching Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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Maya-Vetencourt JF, Ghezzi D, Antognazza MR, Colombo E, Mete M, Feyen P, Desii A, Buschiazzo A, Di Paolo M, Di Marco S, Ticconi F, Emionite L, Shmal D, Marini C, Donelli I, Freddi G, Maccarone R, Bisti S, Sambuceti G, Pertile G, Lanzani G, Benfenati F. A fully organic retinal prosthesis restores vision in a rat model of degenerative blindness. Nat Mater 2017; 16:681-689. [PMID: 28250420 PMCID: PMC5446789 DOI: 10.1038/nmat4874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The degeneration of photoreceptors in the retina is one of the major causes of adult blindness in humans. Unfortunately, no effective clinical treatments exist for the majority of retinal degenerative disorders. Here we report on the fabrication and functional validation of a fully organic prosthesis for long-term in vivo subretinal implantation in the eye of Royal College of Surgeons rats, a widely recognized model of retinitis pigmentosa. Electrophysiological and behavioural analyses reveal a prosthesis-dependent recovery of light sensitivity and visual acuity that persists up to 6-10 months after surgery. The rescue of the visual function is accompanied by an increase in the basal metabolic activity of the primary visual cortex, as demonstrated by positron emission tomography imaging. Our results highlight the possibility of developing a new generation of fully organic, highly biocompatible and functionally autonomous photovoltaic prostheses for subretinal implants to treat degenerative blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diego Ghezzi
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Antognazza
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Colombo
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mete
- Ophthalmology Department, Sacro Cuore Hospital - Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - Paul Feyen
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Desii
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Ambra Buschiazzo
- Department of Health Science, Nuclear Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Flavia Ticconi
- Department of Health Science, Nuclear Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Laura Emionite
- Animal Facility, National Institute Cancer Research, IRCCS AOU San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Dmytro Shmal
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Cecilia Marini
- Institute of Molecular Bio-imaging and Physiology (IBFM), CNR, Milan (GE section), Italy
| | | | | | - Rita Maccarone
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Gianmario Sambuceti
- Department of Health Science, Nuclear Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- Ophthalmology Department, Sacro Cuore Hospital - Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Antognazza MR, Di Paolo M, Ghezzi D, Mete M, Di Marco S, Maya-Vetencourt JF, Maccarone R, Desii A, Di Fonzo F, Bramini M, Russo A, Laudato L, Donelli I, Cilli M, Freddi G, Pertile G, Lanzani G, Bisti S, Benfenati F. Characterization of a Polymer-Based, Fully Organic Prosthesis for Implantation into the Subretinal Space of the Rat. Adv Healthc Mater 2016; 5:2271-82. [PMID: 27240295 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201600318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Replacement strategies arise as promising approaches in case of inherited retinal dystrophies leading to blindness. A fully organic retinal prosthesis made of conjugated polymers layered onto a silk fibroin substrate is engineered. First, the biophysical and surface properties are characterized; then, the long-term biocompatibility is assessed after implantation of the organic device in the subretinal space of 3-months-old rats for a period of five months. The results indicate a good stability of the subretinal implants over time, with preservation of the physical properties of the polymeric layer and a tight contact with the outer retina. Immunoinflammatory markers detect only a modest tissue reaction to the surgical insult and the foreign body that peaks shortly after surgery and progressively decreases with time to normal levels at five months after implantation. Importantly, the integrity of the polymeric layer in direct contact with the retinal tissue is preserved after five months of implantation. The recovery of the foreign-body tissue reaction is also associated with a normal b-wave in the electroretinographic response. The results demonstrate that the device implanted in nondystrophic eyes is well tolerated, highly biocompatible, and suitable as retinal prosthesis in case of photoreceptor degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosa Antognazza
- Center for Nano Science and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Via G. Pascoli 70/3 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science; University of L'Aquila; Via Vetoio, Coppito 2 67100 L'Aquila Italy
| | - Diego Ghezzi
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Largo Giovanna Benzi 10 16132 Genova Italy
| | - Maurizio Mete
- Unità Operativa di Oculistica, Ospedale Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria; Via don A. Sempreboni 5; 37024 Negrar (Verona) Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science; University of L'Aquila; Via Vetoio, Coppito 2 67100 L'Aquila Italy
| | - José Fernando Maya-Vetencourt
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Largo Giovanna Benzi 10 16132 Genova Italy
| | - Rita Maccarone
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science; University of L'Aquila; Via Vetoio, Coppito 2 67100 L'Aquila Italy
| | - Andrea Desii
- Center for Nano Science and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Via G. Pascoli 70/3 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Fabio Di Fonzo
- Center for Nano Science and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Via G. Pascoli 70/3 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Mattia Bramini
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Largo Giovanna Benzi 10 16132 Genova Italy
| | - Angela Russo
- Unità Operativa di Oculistica, Ospedale Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria; Via don A. Sempreboni 5; 37024 Negrar (Verona) Italy
| | - Lucia Laudato
- Center for Nano Science and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Via G. Pascoli 70/3 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Ilaria Donelli
- Innovhub-SSI; Silk Division; Via Giuseppe Colombo 83 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Michele Cilli
- Animal Facility; IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino IST Istituto Nazionale per la Ricerca sul Cancro; Largo Giovanna Benzi 10 16132 Genova Italy
| | - Giuliano Freddi
- Innovhub-SSI; Silk Division; Via Giuseppe Colombo 83 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- Unità Operativa di Oculistica, Ospedale Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria; Via don A. Sempreboni 5; 37024 Negrar (Verona) Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Via G. Pascoli 70/3 20133 Milano Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science; University of L'Aquila; Via Vetoio, Coppito 2 67100 L'Aquila Italy
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology; Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia; Largo Giovanna Benzi 10 16132 Genova Italy
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Corso L, Cavallero A, Baroni D, Garbati P, Prestipino G, Bisti S, Nobile M, Picco C. Saffron reduces ATP-induced retinal cytotoxicity by targeting P2X7 receptors. Purinergic Signal 2016; 12:161-74. [PMID: 26739703 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-015-9490-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
P2X7-type purinergic receptors are distributed throughout the nervous system where they contribute to physiological and pathological functions. In the retina, this receptor is found in both inner and outer cells including microglia modulating signaling and health of retinal cells. It is involved in retinal neurodegenerative disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Experimental studies demonstrated that saffron protects photoreceptors from light-induced damage preserving both retinal morphology and visual function and improves retinal flicker sensitivity in AMD patients. To evaluate a possible interaction between saffron and P2X7 receptors (P2X7Rs), different cellular models and experimental approaches were used. We found that saffron positively influences the viability of mouse primary retinal cells and photoreceptor-derived 661W cells exposed to ATP, and reduced the ATP-induced intracellular calcium increase in 661W cells. Similar results were obtained on HEK cells transfected with recombinant rat P2X7R but not on cells transfected with rat P2X2R. Finally, patch-clamp experiments showed that saffron inhibited cationic currents in HEK-P2X7R cells. These results point out a novel mechanism through which saffron may exert its protective role in neurodegeneration and support the idea that P2X7-mediated calcium signaling may be a crucial therapeutic target in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Corso
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Biotechnology and Applied clinical Science, DISCAB, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Anna Cavallero
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Debora Baroni
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Garbati
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Prestipino
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied clinical Science, DISCAB, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Mario Nobile
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy
| | - Cristiana Picco
- National Research Council, Institute of Biophysics, Via De Marini 6, 16149, Genoa, Italy.
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21
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Fiorani L, Passacantando M, Santucci S, Di Marco S, Bisti S, Maccarone R. Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Reduce Microglial Activation and Neurodegenerative Events in Light Damaged Retina. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140387. [PMID: 26469804 PMCID: PMC4607482 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The first target of any therapy for retinal neurodegeneration is to slow down the progression of the disease and to maintain visual function. Cerium oxide or ceria nanoparticles reduce oxidative stress, which is known to play a pivotal role in neurodegeneration. Our aim was to investigate whether cerium oxide nanoparticles were able to mitigate neurodegeneration including microglial activation and related inflammatory processes induced by exposure to high intensity light. Cerium oxide nanoparticles were injected intravitreally or intraveinously in albino Sprague-Dawley rats three weeks before exposing them to light damage of 1000 lux for 24 h. Electroretinographic recordings were performed a week after light damage. The progression of retinal degeneration was evaluated by measuring outer nuclear layer thickness and TUNEL staining to quantify photoreceptors death. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to evaluate retinal stress, neuroinflammatory cytokines and microglial activation. Only intravitreally injected ceria nanoparticles were detected at the level of photoreceptor outer segments 3 weeks after the light damage and electoretinographic recordings showed that ceria nanoparticles maintained visual response. Moreover, this treatment reduced neuronal death and "hot spot" extension preserving the outer nuclear layer morphology. It is noteworthy that in this work we demonstrated, for the first time, the ability of ceria nanoparticles to reduce microglial activation and their migration toward outer nuclear layer. All these evidences support ceria nanoparticles as a powerful therapeutic agent in retinal neurodegenerative processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Fiorani
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maurizio Passacantando
- Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito I, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandro Santucci
- Department of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito I, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Rita Maccarone
- Department of Applied Clinical Science and Biotechnology, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito II, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Fiorani L, Maccarone R, Fernando N, Colecchi L, Bisti S, Valter K. Slow-release drug delivery through Elvax 40W to the rat retina: implications for the treatment of chronic conditions. J Vis Exp 2014:51563. [PMID: 25286223 DOI: 10.3791/51563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases of the retina are difficult to treat as the retina lies deep within the eye. Invasive methods of drug delivery are often needed to treat these diseases. Chronic retinal diseases such as retinal oedema or neovascularization usually require multiple intraocular injections to effectively treat the condition. However, the risks associated with these injections increase with repeated delivery of the drug. Therefore, alternative delivery methods need to be established in order to minimize the risks of reinjection. Several other investigations have developed methods to deliver drugs over extended time, through materials capable of releasing chemicals slowly into the eye. In this investigation, we outline the use of Elvax 40W, a copolymer resin, to act as a vehicle for drug delivery to the adult rat retina. The resin is made and loaded with the drug. The drug-resin complex is then implanted into the vitreous cavity, where it will slowly release the drug over time. This method was tested using 2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate (APB), a glutamate analogue that blocks the light response of the retina. It was demonstrated that the APB was slowly released from the resin, and was able to block the retinal response by 7 days after implantation. This indicates that slow-release drug delivery using this copolymer resin is effective for treating the retina, and could be used therapeutically with further testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Fiorani
- Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences Department, University of L'Aquila
| | - Rita Maccarone
- Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences Department, University of L'Aquila
| | - Nilisha Fernando
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science; John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University
| | - Linda Colecchi
- Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences Department, University of L'Aquila
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Sciences Department, University of L'Aquila; ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science
| | - Krisztina Valter
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science; John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University; ANU Medical School, Australian National University;
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Di Marco F, Di Paolo M, Romeo S, Colecchi L, Fiorani L, Spana S, Stone J, Bisti S. Combining neuroprotectants in a model of retinal degeneration: no additive benefit. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100389. [PMID: 24955576 PMCID: PMC4067315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system undergoing degeneration can be stabilized, and in some models can be restored to function, by neuroprotective treatments. Photobiomodulation (PBM) and dietary saffron are distinctive as neuroprotectants in that they upregulate protective mechanisms, without causing measurable tissue damage. This study reports a first attempt to combine the actions of PBM and saffron. Our working hypothesis was that the actions of PBM and saffron in protecting retinal photoreceptors, in a rat light damage model, would be additive. Results confirmed the neuroprotective potential of each used separately, but gave no evidence that their effects are additive. Detailed analysis suggests that there is actually a negative interaction between PBM and saffron when given simultaneously, with a consequent reduction of the neuroprotection. Specific testing will be required to understand the mechanisms involved and to establish whether there is clinical potential in combining neuroprotectants, to improve the quality of life of people affected by retinal pathology, such as age-related macular degeneration, the major cause of blindness and visual impairment in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Di Marco
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefania Romeo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Linda Colecchi
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Lavinia Fiorani
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sharon Spana
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Stone
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Marangoni D, Falsini B, Piccardi M, Ambrosio L, Minnella AM, Savastano MC, Bisti S, Maccarone R, Fadda A, Mello E, Concolino P, Capoluongo E. Functional effect of Saffron supplementation and risk genotypes in early age-related macular degeneration: a preliminary report. J Transl Med 2013; 11:228. [PMID: 24067115 PMCID: PMC3850693 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-11-228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To determine whether the functional effects of oral supplementation with Saffron, a natural compound that proved to be neuroprotective in early age-related macular degeneration, are influenced by complement factor H (CFH) and age-related maculopathy susceptibility 2 (ARMS2) risk genotypes. Methods Thirty-three early AMD patients, screened for CFH (rs1061170) and ARMS2 (rs10490924) polymorphisms and receiving Saffron oral supplementation (20 mg/day) over an average period of treatment of 11 months (range, 6–12), were longitudinally evaluated by clinical examination and focal electroretinogram (fERG)-derived macular (18°) flicker sensitivity estimate. fERG amplitude and macular sensitivity, the reciprocal value of the estimated fERG amplitude threshold, were the main outcome measures. Results After three months of supplementation, mean fERG amplitude and fERG sensitivity improved significantly when compared to baseline values (p < 0.01). These changes were stable throughout the follow-up period. No significant differences in clinical and fERG improvements were observed across different CFH or ARMS2 genotypes. Conclusions The present results indicate that the functional effect of Saffron supplementation in individual AMD patients is not related to the major risk genotypes of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Marangoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Otorinolaringoiatriche e Oftalmologiche, Universita' Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Lgo F, Vito 1, 00168 Roma, Italy.
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Marco FD, Romeo S, Nandasena C, Purushothuman S, Adams C, Bisti S, Stone J. The time course of action of two neuroprotectants, dietary saffron and photobiomodulation, assessed in the rat retina. Am J Neurodegener Dis 2013; 2:208-20. [PMID: 24093084 PMCID: PMC3783833] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary saffron and photobiomodulation (low-level infrared radiation, PBM) are emerging as therapeutically promising protectants for neurodegenerative conditions, such as the retinal dystrophies. In animal models, saffron and PBM, given in limited daily doses, protect retina and brain from toxin- or light-induced stress. This study addresses the rate at which saffron and PBM, given in daily doses, induce neuroprotection, using a light damage model of photoreceptor degeneration in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. RESULTS Rats were raised in dim cyclic (12 h 5 lux, 12 h dark) illumination, treated with saffron or PBM for 2-10 d, and then exposed to bright damaging light (1,000 lux for 24 h). After 1 week survival, the retina was assessed for photoreceptor death (using the TUNEL reaction), for surviving photoreceptor damage (thickness of the outer nuclear layer) and for the expression of a stress-related protein GFAP, using immunohistochemistry. Preconditioning the retina with saffron or PBM reduced photoreceptor death, preserved the population of surviving photoreceptors and reduced the upregulation of GFAP in Müller cells. At the daily dose of saffron used (1 mg/kg), protection was detectable at 2 d, increasing to 10 d. At the daily dose of PBM used (5 J/cm(2) at 670 nm) protection was detectable at 5 d, increasing to 7-10 d. CONCLUSIONS The results provide time parameters for exploration of the mechanisms and durability of the protection provided by saffron and PBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Di Marco
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’AquilaItaly
| | - Stefania Romeo
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’AquilaItaly
| | - Charith Nandasena
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney and ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, University of SydneyAustralia
| | - Sivaraman Purushothuman
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney and ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, University of SydneyAustralia
| | - Charean Adams
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney and ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, University of SydneyAustralia
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Clinical Science, University of L’AquilaItaly
| | - Jonathan Stone
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, University of Sydney and ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, University of SydneyAustralia
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Ghezzi D, Antognazza MR, Maccarone R, Bellani S, Lanzarini E, Martino N, Mete M, Pertile G, Bisti S, Lanzani G, Benfenati F. A polymer optoelectronic interface restores light sensitivity in blind rat retinas. Nat Photonics 2013; 7:400-406. [PMID: 27158258 PMCID: PMC4855023 DOI: 10.1038/nphoton.2013.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Interfacing organic electronics with biological substrates offers new possibilities for biotechnology due to the beneficial properties exhibited by organic conducting polymers. These polymers have been used for cellular interfaces in several fashions, including cellular scaffolds, neural probes, biosensors and actuators for drug release. Recently, an organic photovoltaic blend has been exploited for neuronal stimulation via a photo-excitation process. Here, we document the use of a single-component organic film of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) to trigger neuronal firing upon illumination. Moreover, we demonstrate that this bio-organic interface restored light sensitivity in explants of rat retinas with light-induced photoreceptor degeneration. These findings suggest that all-organic devices may play an important future role in sub-retinal prosthetic implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Ghezzi
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Antognazza
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - Rita Maccarone
- Dipartimento di Tecnologie Biomediche, Università dell’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Bellani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - Erica Lanzarini
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - Nicola Martino
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mete
- UO Oculistica, Ospedale S. Cuore-Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - Grazia Pertile
- UO Oculistica, Ospedale S. Cuore-Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Dipartimento di Tecnologie Biomediche, Università dell’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Lanzani
- Center for Nano Science and Technology@PoliMi, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milano, Italy
- Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to G.L. and F.B. and
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
- Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to G.L. and F.B. and
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Capoluongo E, Concolino P, Piccardi M, Marangoni D, Mello E, Minnella AM, Savastano C, Fadda A, Zuppi C, Bisti S, Falsini B. Retinal function and CFH-ARMS2 polymorphisms analysis: a pilot study in Italian AMD patients. Neurobiol Aging 2012; 33:1852.e5-12. [PMID: 22552255 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Revised: 03/09/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Two major susceptibility genes, complement factor H (CFH) and age-related maculopathy susceptibility 2 (ARMS2), have been implicated in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathogenesis. We analyzed the association between CFH rs1061170 and/or ARMS2 rs10490924 polymorphisms with central retinal function properties, as evaluated by focal electroretinogram (fERG). Forty early AMD patients, with preserved visual acuity and typical macular lesions, underwent fERG recording (in response to 41 Hz flicker stimuli presented to the central 18 degrees) and CFH/ARMS2 genotyping. Mean fERG amplitude and sensitivity decreased in patients carrying CFH rs1061170 polymorphism (p < 0.01), compared with wild type ones, although visual acuity and funduscopic features were similar across the 2 groups. No significant fERG phase changes were observed. No association was detected between ARMS2 (rs10490924) polymorphism and fERG parameters. Our findings indicate that CFH (rs1061170) polymorphism impacts significantly on retinal function in early AMD patients, and support the hypothesis that dysfunctional CFH might result in early retinal function loss due to a reduction in the immune antioxidant defense mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Capoluongo
- Istituto di Biochimica Clinica, Università Cattolica del S Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Natoli R, Zhu Y, Valter K, Bisti S, Eells J, Stone J. Gene and noncoding RNA regulation underlying photoreceptor protection: microarray study of dietary antioxidant saffron and photobiomodulation in rat retina. Mol Vis 2010; 16:1801-22. [PMID: 20844572 PMCID: PMC2932490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2010] [Accepted: 08/31/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the genes and noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) involved in the neuroprotective actions of a dietary antioxidant (saffron) and of photobiomodulation (PBM). METHODS We used a previously published assay of photoreceptor damage, in which albino Sprague Dawley rats raised in dim cyclic illumination (12 h 5 lux, 12 h darkness) were challenged by 24 h exposure to bright (1,000 lux) light. Experimental groups were protected against light damage by pretreatment with dietary saffron (1 mg/kg/day for 21 days) or PBM (9 J/cm(2) at the eye, daily for 5 days). RNA from one eye of four animals in each of the six experimental groups (control, light damage [LD], saffron, PBM, saffronLD, and PBMLD) was hybridized to Affymetrix rat genome ST arrays. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis of 14 selected genes was used to validate the microarray results. RESULTS LD caused the regulation of 175 entities (genes and ncRNAs) beyond criterion levels (p<0.05 in comparison with controls, fold-change >2). PBM pretreatment reduced the expression of 126 of these 175 LD-regulated entities below criterion; saffron pretreatment reduced the expression of 53 entities (50 in common with PBM). In addition, PBM pretreatment regulated the expression of 67 entities not regulated by LD, while saffron pretreatment regulated 122 entities not regulated by LD (48 in common with PBM). PBM and saffron, given without LD, regulated genes and ncRNAs beyond criterion levels, but in lesser numbers than during their protective action. A high proportion of the entities regulated by LD (>90%) were known genes. By contrast, ncRNAs were prominent among the entities regulated by PBM and saffron in their neuroprotective roles (73% and 62%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Given alone, saffron and (more prominently) PBM both regulated significant numbers of genes and ncRNAs. Given before retinal exposure to damaging light, thus while exerting their neuroprotective action, they regulated much larger numbers of entities, among which ncRNAs were prominent. Further, the downregulation of known genes and of ncRNAs was prominent in the protective actions of both neuroprotectants. These comparisons provide an overview of gene expression induced by two neuroprotectants and provide a basis for the more focused study of their mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Natoli
- Division of Biomedical Sciences & Biochemistry, Research School of Biology, Australian National University; Sydney, Australia,ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yuan Zhu
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia,Bosch Institute, Discipline of Physiology and Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Krisztina Valter
- Division of Biomedical Sciences & Biochemistry, Research School of Biology, Australian National University; Sydney, Australia,ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia
| | - Silvia Bisti
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia,Department of Science and Biomedical Technology, University of L’Aquila, Coppito II, Via Vetoio, L’Aquila, Italy,Bosch Institute, Discipline of Physiology and Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Janis Eells
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia,Department of Biomedical Sciences University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Jonathan Stone
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Sydney, Australia,Bosch Institute, Discipline of Physiology and Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Falsini B, Piccardi M, Minnella A, Savastano C, Capoluongo E, Fadda A, Balestrazzi E, Maccarone R, Bisti S. Influence of saffron supplementation on retinal flicker sensitivity in early age-related macular degeneration. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2010; 51:6118-24. [PMID: 20688744 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-4995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the functional effect of short-term supplementation of saffron, a spice containing the antioxidant carotenoids crocin and crocetin, in early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS Twenty-five patients with AMD were randomly assigned to oral saffron 20 mg/d or placebo supplementation over a 3-month period and then reverted to placebo or saffron for a further 3 months. Focal electroretinograms (fERGs) and clinical findings were recorded at baseline and after 3 months of saffron or placebo supplementation. fERGs were recorded in response to a sinusoidally modulated (41 Hz), uniform field presented to the macular region (18°) at different modulations between 16.5% and 93.5%. Main outcome measures were fERG amplitude (in microvolts), phase (in degrees), and modulation thresholds. RESULTS After saffron, patients' fERGs were increased in amplitude, compared with either baseline or values found after placebo supplementation (mean change after saffron, 0.25 log μV; mean change after placebo, -0.003 log μV; P < 0.01). fERG thresholds were decreased after saffron supplementation but not placebo, compared with baseline (mean change after saffron, -0.26 log units; mean change after placebo, 0.0003 log units). CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that short-term saffron supplementation improves retinal flicker sensitivity in early AMD. Although the results must be further replicated and the clinical significance is yet to be evaluated, they provide important clues that nutritional carotenoids may affect AMD in novel and unexpected ways, possibly beyond their antioxidant properties. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00951288.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetto Falsini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Oftalmologiche e Otorinolaringologiche, Università Cattolica del S. Cuore, Rome, Italy.
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Bisti S. Degeneration/re-organization coupling in retinitis pigmentosa. Clin Neurophysiol 2010; 121:270-1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2009.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2009] [Revised: 10/27/2009] [Accepted: 10/31/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Deplano S, Giorgi M, Maccarone R, Santone R, Nuccetelli V, Basso M, Bisti S. Gene expression and protein localization of calmodulin-dependent phosphodiesterase during ontogenesis of chick retina. J Neurosci Res 2008; 86:1017-23. [PMID: 18041092 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Calmodulin-dependent phosphodiesterase (PDE1) is a key enzyme in cyclic nucleotides metabolism. We studied its gene expression and protein localization during retinal development in chick embryos. Western blot and densitometric analysis demonstrated that the expression of the three isoforms changed during development. PDE1A was highly expressed at the early stages and decreased as development proceeded. PDE1B expression remained relatively low and constant over time. PDE1C showed a prominent increase (13-fold) between embryonic day (E) 7 and E13, followed by a moderate increase between E13 and postnatal day (P) 1. The presence of the enzyme in the different retinal locations was strongly modulated by development. PDE1A immunostaining was first detected at the ganglion cell level (E7), then in the outer retina (E15-E21). At P5, the immunostaining was confined in the optic fiber layer. Isoform C immunolocalization followed the same inner-outer pattern as isoform A. At 5 days posthatching (P5), the immunoreactivity was restricted, as well as for the isoform A, in the optic fiber layer. The isoform B immunolabelling was low and evenly distributed across the retina at all stages. The different developmental profiles of PDE1A, PDE1B, and PDE1C induced a temporal modulation in cyclic nucleotides concentration, suggesting specific roles of this enzyme in the morphofunctional development of retinal circuitry.
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Maccarone R, Di Marco S, Bisti S. Saffron Supplement Maintains Morphology and Function after Exposure to Damaging Light in Mammalian Retina. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 49:1254-61. [DOI: 10.1167/iovs.07-0438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rita Maccarone
- From the Department of Science and Biomedical Technology, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefano Di Marco
- From the Department of Science and Biomedical Technology, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Silvia Bisti
- From the Department of Science and Biomedical Technology, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy;2ARC Centre of Excellence in Visual Science, Canberra, Australia; and the3Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy
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Giovannelli A, Di Marco S, Maccarone R, Bisti S. Long-term dark rearing induces permanent reorganization in retinal circuitry. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 365:349-54. [PMID: 17999915 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.10.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2007] [Accepted: 10/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent data challenged the assumption that light has little effect on retina development. Here, we report evidence that dark rearing permanently changes the synaptic input to GCs. A reduced spontaneous postsynaptic currents (SPSCs) frequency was found in retinal GCs from rats born and raised in the dark for three months. Glutamate antagonists (CNQX and AP-5) reversibly reduced SPSCs frequency in control and dark-reared (DR) retinae. The GABA antagonist picrotoxin (PTX) reduced SPSCs frequency in control retinas, but increased SPSCs frequency in DR, mainly by presynaptic action on excitatory currents. In DR animals exposed to normal cyclic light for 3 months, SPSCs frequency remained lower then in control rats and increased following PTX, suggesting that long-term dark rearing induces permanent modifications of the retinal circuitry. Our results strongly support the idea that light stimulation plays a role in establishing normal synaptic input to GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Giovannelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università di L'Aquila, via Vetoio, Coppito 2, L'Aquila 67100, Italy.
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Santone R, Giorgi M, Maccarone R, Basso M, Deplano S, Bisti S. Gene expression and protein localization of calmodulin-dependent phosphodiesterase in adult rat retina. J Neurosci Res 2006; 84:1020-6. [PMID: 16881052 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Calcium calmodulin-dependent cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE1) was identified in crude extract and immunolabeled sections of rat retina. Both cAMP and cGMP PDE activities were stimulated by calcium-calmodulin (4.7-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively). To characterize PDE1 isoforms in retinal cells further, we used antibodies that specifically recognize PDE1 gene products. PDE1B antibody stained a band at molecular mass of 63 kDa whereas PDE1C antibody recognized two bands at 74- and 70-kDa molecular masses. Two PDE1A antibodies (against N-terminal and C-terminal peptides) detected a band at 79 kDa never described before. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a distribution of PDE1A in the outer retina with a bright fluorescence in the outer segments of photoreceptors. PDE1B is uniformly distributed across the retina. PDE1C is confined mainly to the inner retina, with a precise localization in the inner nuclear layer. Immunostaining with choline acetyltransferase antibody indicates localization in cholinergic amacrine cell. The present data provide evidence of expression of PDE1 isoforms in mammalian retina with a complementary distribution of PDE1A and PDE1C, suggesting different roles in retinal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Santone
- Dipartimento di Biologia di Base e Applicata, Università di l'Aquila, Coppito, Italy
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Djavadian R, Bisti S, Maccarone R, Bartkowska K, Turlejski K. Development and plasticity of the retina in the opossum Monodelphis domestica. Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) 2006; 66:179-88. [PMID: 17133949 DOI: 10.55782/ane-2006-1605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the rate of cell proliferation and death in the retina of the Monodelphis opossum during its postnatal development and the influence of early monocular enucleation on these processes. Our results show that in the opossum, as in other marsupials, the peak of the retinal cells divisions occurs postnatally and that generation of retinal cells continues till the time of eye opening (P34), except of the marginal rim, where it continued till P60. Ganglion and amacrine cells are generated between postnatal days (P) P4 and P9, while bipolar cells and photoreceptors are generated simultaneously between P14 and P25. The peak of ganglion cell death as detected by the TUNEL method occurs around P14-19 in the center of retina. The second peak of apoptosis appears in the inner nuclear layer (INL) at P19-25. Gliogenesis takes place between P25 and P34. We also found that monocular enucleation performed during the early period of retinal development (P0-P7) did not influence proliferation, developmental apoptosis or other developmental processes in the retina of the remaining eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouzanna Djavadian
- Department of Molecular And Cellular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 3 Pasteur St., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
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Deplano S, Gargini C, Maccarone R, Chalupa LM, Bisti S. Long-term treatment of the developing retina with the metabotropic glutamate agonist APB induces long-term changes in the stratification of retinal ganglion cell dendrites. Dev Neurosci 2005; 26:396-405. [PMID: 15855769 DOI: 10.1159/000082282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2004] [Accepted: 07/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The gradual restriction of initially multistratified retinal ganglion cell (RGC) dendrites into ON and OFF sublaminae of the inner plexiform layer (IPL) can be effectively blocked by treating the developing retina with 2-amino-4-phosphonobutyrate (APB), the metabotropic glutamate agonist, or by light deprivation. Previous studies have focused on the short-term consequences of such manipulations, so the long-term effects of arresting dendritic stratification on the structural development of RGCs are as yet unknown. In the present study, we have addressed this issue by performing a morphological analysis of alpha RGCs labeled by retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase injected into the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus of adult cats that received monocular injections of APB from postnatal (P) day 2 until P30. A large proportion of the alpha cells in the APB-treated eye (44%) were found to have multistratified dendrites that terminated in both the ON and OFF sublaminae of the IPL. The dendritic arborization pattern in the sublaminae of the IPL of these cells was asymmetric, showing a variety of forms. Immunolabeling of retinal cross-sections showed that mGLUR6 receptors appeared normal in density and location, while qualitative observation suggested an increase in the axonal arborization of rod bipolar cells. These findings indicate that long-term treatment of the neonatal retina with APB induces a long- lasting structural reorganization in retinal circuitry that most likely accounts for some of the previously described changes in the functional properties of RGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Deplano
- Dipartimento DIBISAA, Università di Genova, Vle. Benedetto XV, Genova, Italy
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Valter K, Bisti S, Gargini C, Di Loreto S, Maccarone R, Cervetto L, Stone J. Time Course of Neurotrophic Factor Upregulation and Retinal Protection against Light-Induced Damage after Optic Nerve Section. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 46:1748-54. [PMID: 15851578 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.04-0657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess neurotrophic factor upregulation in the retina after damage to the optic nerve and relate that regulation to changes in photoreceptor stability and function. METHODS Retinas of adult pigmented (Long-Evans) rats were examined at successive times (1-60 days) after unilateral optic nerve section. The distribution and expression of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) and their receptor elements FGFR1 and CNTFRalpha were studied with immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. FGF-2 and CNTF mRNA levels were also assessed, with semiquantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Levels and localization of the intracellular signaling molecule ERK and its activated, phosphorylated form pERK, were examined by immunohistochemistry. To assess the correlation between neurotrophic factor levels and their protective effect against light damage, albino (Sprague-Dawley) rats were exposed to bright continuous light (1000 lux) for 24 or 48 hours at successive times after nerve section. The TUNEL technique was used to visualize neuronal cell death in the retina. RESULTS CNTF upregulation was detected 1 week after optic nerve section, peaked at 2 weeks, and fell to control levels at 4 weeks. CNTF appeared first in the inner retina in the ganglion cells, then in the Muller cells in which it became prominent at the outer limiting membrane (OLM) and in the outer segment (OS) region of photoreceptors. FGF-2 upregulation became prominent, particularly in photoreceptors, 21 to 28 days after surgery, continued to 2 months, and slowly declined thereafter. Double labeling with antibodies to ligand and the receptor showed colocalization of CNTF to its receptor at the OS region, whereas FGF-2-to-FGFR1 binding was found in the outer nuclear (ONL) and outer plexiform (OPL) layers. Optic nerve section provided a significant protective effect against light-induced damage in the first 2 weeks. There was no protection when animals were exposed to damaging light 1 month after nerve section. CONCLUSIONS The upregulation of CNTF 7 to 14 days after nerve section correlates with a reduction in the a-wave described previously. Colocalization of CNTF and CNTFRalpha on the outer segments suggests that CNTF acts at the photoreceptor membrane. The slower upregulation of FGF-2 correlates with a reduction of the b-wave. FGF-2/FGFR1 colocalization in the OPL suggests that this factor acts at the synaptic terminals of photoreceptors, modulating the release of neurotransmitters. The time course of pERK upregulation suggests that the successive upregulation of CNTF and FGF-2 activates the ERK pathway. Based on the time course of protection against bright continuous light, it seems that CNTF plays a major role in this effect, and FGF-2 has a less important role in the protection against light-induced damage.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor/genetics
- Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism
- Denervation
- Electroretinography
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/genetics
- Fibroblast Growth Factor 2/metabolism
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
- In Situ Nick-End Labeling
- Light
- Optic Nerve/physiology
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Radiation Injuries, Experimental/metabolism
- Radiation Injuries, Experimental/pathology
- Radiation Injuries, Experimental/prevention & control
- Rats
- Rats, Long-Evans
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases/metabolism
- Receptor, Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor/metabolism
- Receptor, Fibroblast Growth Factor, Type 1
- Receptors, Fibroblast Growth Factor/metabolism
- Retina/metabolism
- Retina/radiation effects
- Retinal Degeneration/metabolism
- Retinal Degeneration/pathology
- Retinal Degeneration/prevention & control
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Time Factors
- Up-Regulation
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Valter
- CNS Stability and Degeneration Group, Research School of Biological Sciences, The Australian National University, Canberra City, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
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Gargini C, Bisti S, Demontis GC, Valter K, Stone J, Cervetto L. Electroretinogram changes associated with retinal upregulation of trophic factors: observations following optic nerve section. Neuroscience 2004; 126:775-83. [PMID: 15183525 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present work was to assess whether upregulation of trophic factors and protection from damage induced in the retina by optic nerve section are associated with changes in the flash electroretinogram (ERG). We have examined the ERG in adult pigmented rat at different survival times over a period of 3 months following section of the optic nerve. The a-wave was analyzed using the Lamb-Pugh model and the parameters of best fit were estimated in control animals and at successive survival times. The amplitudes of the a- and b-waves were reduced over the first 7 days after nerve section. The a-wave recovered its relative amplitude by 21 days, but the b-wave remained depressed 5 weeks following nerve section. Analysis of the a-wave indicated a 20-30% reduction in the dark current of sectioned eyes at 7 days survival. A significant reduction of the amplification constant was observed in both nerve-sectioned and nerve-intact eyes, relative to normal and sham-operated controls. This reduction persisted to the longest survival time examined. The reduction of the a-wave at 7 days after nerve section coincides with a period of upregulation of ciliary nerve trophic factor. The amplification factor is influenced over a longer time course, which corresponds with a period of up-regulation of basic fibroblast growth factor. These changes in growth factor expression and ERG parameters are in turn associated with protection of photoreceptors against light damage. Present results suggest that the sensitivity of the retina to light may be regulated by mechanisms which protect photoreceptors against stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gargini
- Dipartimento di Psichiatria Neurobiologia, Farmacdogia e Biotecnologie, Università di Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, I-56126 Pisa, Italy
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Maccarone R, Izzizzari G, Gargini C, Cervetto L, Bisti S. The impact of organic inhibitors of the hyperpolarization activated current (Ih) on the electroretinogram (ERG) of rodents. Arch Ital Biol 2004; 142:95-103. [PMID: 15248565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
We have compared the effect of two distinct Ih inhibitors on the temporal properties of the ERG response that, as previously shown, correlates well with the HCN activation in rods. The present results confirm the notion that cilobradine is more effective than zatebradine in inducing bradycardia. Importantly, the doses of cilobradine that reduce the heart rate to values comparable to, or lower than, those obtained with higher doses of zatebradine have little effect on the frequency response of the ERG. While more potent than zatebradine in its bradycardic action, cilobradine appears comparatively less effective on the visual response. A possible explanation is that the affinity of cilobradine for the HCN channels in the heart is higher than that for the HCN channels of retinal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Maccarone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biomediche, Università di L'Aquila, Italy
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Sannita WG, Acquaviva M, Ball SL, Belli F, Bisti S, Bidoli V, Carozzo S, Casolino M, Cucinotta F, De Pascale MP, Di Fino L, Di Marco S, Maccarone R, Martello C, Miller J, Narici L, Peachey NS, Picozza P, Rinaldi A, Ruggieri D, Saturno M, Schardt D, Vazquez M. Effects of heavy ions on visual function and electrophysiology of rodents: the ALTEA-MICE project. Adv Space Res 2004; 33:1347-1351. [PMID: 15803626 DOI: 10.1016/j.asr.2003.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
ALTEA-MICE will supplement the ALTEA project on astronauts and provide information on the functional visual impairment possibly induced by heavy ions during prolonged operations in microgravity. Goals of ALTEA-MICE are: (1) to investigate the effects of heavy ions on the visual system of normal and mutant mice with retinal defects; (2) to define reliable experimental conditions for space research; and (3) to develop animal models to study the physiological consequences of space travels on humans. Remotely controlled mouse setup, applied electrophysiological recording methods, remote particle monitoring, and experimental procedures were developed and tested. The project has proved feasible under laboratory-controlled conditions comparable in important aspects to those of astronauts' exposure to particle in space. Experiments are performed at the Brookhaven National Laboratories [BNL] (Upton, NY, USA) and the Gesellschaft für Schwerionenforschung mbH [GSI]/Biophysik (Darmstadt, FRG) to identify possible electrophysiological changes and/or activation of protective mechanisms in response to pulsed radiation. Offline data analyses are in progress and observations are still anecdotal. Electrophysiological changes after pulsed radiation are within the limits of spontaneous variability under anesthesia, with only indirect evidence of possible retinal/cortical responses. Immunostaining showed changes (e.g. increased expression of FGF2 protein in the outer nuclear layer) suggesting a retinal stress reaction to high-energy particles of potential relevance in space.
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Abstract
Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is an important factor in the retina's mechanisms of self-protection. It is generated by retinal glial cells in response to stress, and has a significant protective effect on retinal neurones. In this study we have identified the location of the alpha component of the CNTF receptor complex (CNTFRalpha) in rat retina, using immunohistochemistry and high-resolution confocal microscopy. The major location of CNTFRalpha is on photoreceptor outer segments. More scattered, granular forms of CNTFRalpha were identified in association with Müller cell processes in other retinal layers. Colocalisation of CNTF with CNTFRalpha, suggestive of ligand-receptor binding, was detected on outer segments, and in both normal retinas and retinas stressed by light or oxygen. Results provide evidence that the principal site of CNTF action is the outer segments of photoreceptors. This confirms the known ability of CNTF to protect photoreceptors against stress, and suggest that it acts by modulating mechanisms specific to the outer segment, such as the phototransduction cascade or the membrane channels, which control dark current.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Valter
- CNS Stability and Degeneration Group, Research School of Biological Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
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Abstract
AIM To identify sites of FGF-2 action on photoreceptors of the rat retina, by localizing FGFR1 in the intact retina, and to assess the colocalisation of FGF-2 with FGFR1. METHODS Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy were used to localise FGF-2 and FGFR1 in cryosections of the rat retina, both normal retina and retina stressed by exposure to bright continuous light (1000 lux, 24h). Antibodies to synaptophysin (SY), cytochrome oxidase (CO) and opsin were used to relate FGFR1-labelling to synaptic vesicles, mitochondria and the photoreceptor cell membrane. Electron microscopy was used to demonstrate the location of synapses within the outer plexiform layer (OPL). RESULTS FGFR1 was most prominent in the outer nuclear layer (ONL), as diffuse labelling of photoreceptor cytoplasm and as granules between photoreceptor somas. FGFR1 labelling was also observed in the outer synapse-rich sublayer of the OPL where it colocalised with SY, but not with CO-labelled mitochondria. In stressed retina, both at the edge of normal retina and after light stress, FGFR1 expression was upregulated in both the ONL and the OPL. Colocalisation of FGFR1 with FGF-2 could not be demonstrated in unstressed retina, but was demonstrable in stressed retina, in both the ONL and OPL. CONCLUSIONS FGFR1 is prominent in the cytoplasm of photoreceptors, and in their axon terminals, where it is closely associated with synaptic vesicles. Colocalisation of FGFR1 and FGF-2 could be demonstrated in stressed retina, in the cytoplasm and the axon terminals of photoreceptors. The known protective action of FGF-2 may be exerted at the photoreceptor soma. The action of FGF-2 in inhibiting the ERG b-wave may be exerted at the axon terminal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Valter
- NSW Retinal Dystrophy Research Centre and Department of Anatomy and Histology, Institute for Biomedical Research, University of Sydney, F13, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia.
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Di Loreto S, Spadea L, Cencioni S, Balestrazzi E, Adorno D, Cervetto L, Bisti S. Correlation between ERG changes and FGF2 mRNA Up-regulation in patients with choroidal melanoma. Exp Eye Res 2002; 75:217-25. [PMID: 12137767 DOI: 10.1006/exer.2002.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
To study electroretinographic (ERG) response to light flashes in patients with choroidal melanoma and to define possible factors involved in the modification of both a- and b-wave.ISCEV standard flash-ERG was recorded from both affected and control eyes on 24 patients before surgical operation (local excision or enucleation). The choroidal melanomatous mass ranged from 33 to 2880mm(3). Tissues from both melanomatous retina-choroid complex and areas far from the melanoma (unaffected) were taken from 13 enucleated eyes to measure the level of FGF2 mRNA, utilizing the technique of semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Tissues from 10 normal eyes were used as control. The majority of patients showed a marked a- and b-wave attenuation in the affected eye with respect to the fellow eye. In 10 retinal specimens, the expression of FGF2 mRNA showed an increase in retinal regions far from the melanoma compared to control eyes. Many patients present an increase in the expression of FGF2 mRNA in the unaffected part of the retina and a clear attenuation in both a- and b-ERG components. The size of melanoma does not predict the amount of reduction in the ERG response, at least for sizes less than 1000mm(3). We suggest that the melanoma triggers a process leading to an up-regulation of FGF2 in the human eye and this up-regulation might be responsible for the ERG attenuation.
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Bisti S, Konidou G, Papageorgiou F, Milon G, Boelaert JR, Soteriadou K. The outcome of Leishmania major experimental infection in BALB/c mice can be modulated by exogenously delivered iron. Eur J Immunol 2000; 30:3732-40. [PMID: 11169417 DOI: 10.1002/1521-4141(200012)30:12<3732::aid-immu3732>3.0.co;2-d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We previously established that Leishmania promastigotes express a transferrin receptor and that iron chelators inhibit promastigote growth in vitro. Thus, we were interested in modulating the vertebrate host iron pool and to monitor whether such changes will affect the outcome of L. major infection in BALB / c mice, inoculated in the footpad with 106 stationary phase promastigotes. Treatment of mice with desferrioxamine resulted in a slight delay of the development of cutaneous lesions. In contrast and unexpectedly, systemic iron delivery, at early time points of parasite delivery, significantly limited footpad pathology. Accordingly, parasite loads at the site of parasite delivery, the draining lymph node, liver and spleen were significantly reduced in iron-loaded mice. Importantly, the "protective" effect of iron delivery correlated with the presence, at the site of inoculation, of lower levels of IL-4 and IL-10 transcripts while both IFN-gamma and inducible nitric oxide synthase transcripts were at higher levels. The presence of more type 1 cytokine transcripts was further supported by the increased levels of IgG2a in their sera. These data strongly suggest that susceptibility to L. major as assessed in the footpad model is modifiable by interventions that alter the iron status of the host at early time points of parasite delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bisti
- Department of Biochemistry, Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
PURPOSE The electro-oculogram (EOG) is a powerful test to diagnose primary and metastatic choroidal tumors. While in benign tumors light-peak to dark-trough ratio values are in the range of normal subjects, these values appear highly altered in eyes affected by malignant choroidal tumors. Here we report a clinical case of a patient with intraretinal metastasis from cutaneous melanoma; notwithstanding the malignancy of the tumor, the EOG doesn't present alterations. METHODS AND RESULTS Standard electro-oculographic recordings were performed before and after local excision of the tumor: recordings from the normal eye were taken as control. The EOG values were always normal in both eyes. Histological sections showed no evident change in the cell population of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the presence of an intact RPE is a crucial requirement to obtain a normal EOG.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Spadea
- L'Aquila University Eye Clinic, Italy.
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Stone J, Maslim J, Valter-Kocsi K, Mervin K, Bowers F, Chu Y, Barnett N, Provis J, Lewis G, Fisher SK, Bisti S, Gargini C, Cervetto L, Merin S, Peér J. Mechanisms of photoreceptor death and survival in mammalian retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 1999; 18:689-735. [PMID: 10530749 DOI: 10.1016/s1350-9462(98)00032-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian retina, like the rest of the central nervous system, is highly stable and can maintain its structure and function for the full life of the individual, in humans for many decades. Photoreceptor dystrophies are instances of retinal instability. Many are precipitated by genetic mutations and scores of photoreceptor-lethal mutations have now been identified at the codon level. This review explores the factors which make the photoreceptor more vulnerable to small mutations of its proteins than any other cell of the body, and more vulnerable to environmental factors than any other retinal neurone. These factors include the highly specialised structure and function of the photoreceptors, their high appetite for energy, their self-protective mechanisms and the architecture of their energy supply from the choroidal circulation. Particularly important are the properties of the choroidal circulation, especially its fast flow of near-arterial blood and its inability to autoregulate. Mechanisms which make the retina stable and unstable are then reviewed in three different models of retinal degeneration, retinal detachment, photoreceptor dystrophy and light damage. A two stage model of the genesis of photoreceptor dystrophies is proposed, comprising an initial "depletion" stage caused by genetic or environmental insult and a second "late" stage during which oxygen toxicity damages and eventually destroys any photoreceptors which survive the initial depletion. It is a feature of the model that the second "late" stage of retinal dystrophies is driven by oxygen toxicity. The implications of these ideas for therapy of retinal dystrophies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Stone
- NSW Retinal Dystrophy Research Centre, Department of Anatomy and Histology, University of Sydney, Australia.
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Gargini C, Belfiore MS, Bisti S, Cervetto L, Valter K, Stone J. The impact of basic fibroblast growth factor on photoreceptor function and morphology. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 1999; 40:2088-99. [PMID: 10440265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the impact of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on photoreceptor function and morphology. METHODS Impact was assessed in two models. In one, the endogenous expression of bFGF in photoreceptors was raised by sectioning one optic nerve of rats 3 to 4 weeks before study. In the other, bFGF was injected into the vitreous chamber in rats and cats. Retinal function was assessed from the electroretinogram (ERG), and retinal morphology was studied using DNA dyes, immunolabeling, and in situ hybridization. RESULTS In both models of bFGF upregulation, the ERG b-wave was suppressed over a wide stimulus range and in light- and dark-adapted conditions. The a-wave was not suppressed by either procedure and at the brightest intensities was enhanced by both procedures. In nerve-sectioned eyes, outer retina appeared normal histologically, but levels of bFGF protein in the inner and outer nuclear layers were raised, whereas bFGF mRNA levels remained unchanged. In both models, levels of synaptophysin in the outer plexiform layer and of cytochrome oxidase in inner segments were raised in association with increases in bFGF protein levels. CONCLUSIONS bFGF increased the ability of photoreceptors to respond to light but attenuated the transmission of this response to inner retinal cells, presumably by blocking the photoreceptor-bipolar synapse. If the expression of bFGF protein is upregulated in human photoreceptor dystrophies, it may contribute a reversible component to the loss of vision. The relationship between these actions of bFGF and its ability to protect photoreceptors from stress remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gargini
- Istituto di Neurofisiologia, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Dipartimento di Psichiatria, Neurobiologia, Farmacologia e Biotecnologie, Universitá di Pisa, Italy
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Gargini C, Demontis GC, Bisti S, Cervetto L. Temporal fidelity in the visual system. Arch Ital Biol 1999; 137:299-309. [PMID: 10443321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
The temporal properties of the visual system have been analyzed by recording the ERG and its isolated components in response to light stimuli whose luminance was varied sinusoidally. The performance of the visual system to periodic light stimuli was tested in human subjects psychophysically. The comparison of the results in control conditions and after administration of drugs that specifically block the hyperpolarization activated current (Ih) suggest that the inner rectifying properties of the inner segment membrane of rods is involved in a process of temporal differentiation of the visual signals whereby high frequency components of the response especially relevant for the visual performance are enhanced. It is proposed that the temporal fidelity of the visual system is the results of an elaboration starting at early level of the signal generated by the phototransductive cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gargini
- Dipartimento di Psichiatria, Neurobiologia, Farmacologia e Biotecnologie, Università di Pisa, Italy
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Abstract
The temporal properties of the electroretinogram (ERG) recorded from cat eyes were analyzed in the presence of either Cs+ or zatebradine which are known to inhibit the hyperpolarization activated current (Ih) in retinal rods. Both Cs+ and zatebradine reduce the ERG response to high-frequency sinusoidal stimuli of high mean luminance and contrast. Conversely, blockade of Ih has no effect on the frequency response characteristics of the isolated receptor component (PIII). These observations support the idea that Ih plays an important role in the transfer of signals from photoreceptors to second order neurons by suppressing the slow components originated in the phototransductive cascade. The result of this operation is an enhancement of the light response in a range of temporal frequencies relevant to vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Gargini
- Dipartimento di Psichiatria, Neurobiologia, Farmacologia e Biotecnologie, Università di Pisa, Italy
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