U.S. patent application number 17/133450 was filed with the patent office on 2021-07-01 for low oxygen culture conditions for maintaining retinal progenitor cell multipotency.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Schepens Eye Research Institute. Invention is credited to Petr Y. Baranov, Budd A. Tucker, Michael J. Young.
Application Number | 20210198625 17/133450 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005449579 |
Filed Date | 2021-07-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210198625 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Young; Michael J. ; et
al. |
July 1, 2021 |
LOW OXYGEN CULTURE CONDITIONS FOR MAINTAINING RETINAL PROGENITOR
CELL MULTIPOTENCY
Abstract
The present invention relates to methods for culturing human
retinal progenitor cells under low oxygen conditions to allow the
cells to retain the ability to differentiate into photoreceptors
following transplantation. The described methods provide cells that
can treat a number of ocular diseases, including retinitis
pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration.
Inventors: |
Young; Michael J.;
(Gloucester, MA) ; Tucker; Budd A.; (Coralville,
IA) ; Baranov; Petr Y.; (Somerville, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Schepens Eye Research Institute |
Boston |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005449579 |
Appl. No.: |
17/133450 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15613030 |
Jun 2, 2017 |
10947501 |
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17133450 |
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14056638 |
Oct 17, 2013 |
9677050 |
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15613030 |
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13160002 |
Jun 14, 2011 |
8563304 |
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14056638 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C12N 2500/02 20130101;
C12N 5/0623 20130101; C12N 5/062 20130101; A61K 35/30 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C12N 5/0797 20060101
C12N005/0797; C12N 5/0793 20060101 C12N005/0793; A61K 35/30
20060101 A61K035/30 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A composition comprising an isolated, expanded substantially
homogenous population of multipotent retinal progenitor cells and a
stabilizer or a preservative, wherein the retinal progenitor cells
express heterodimers of both HIF1 alpha with the aryl hydrocarbon
receptor nuclear translocator (ARNT also known as HIF1.beta.) and
HIF2 alpha with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator
2 (ARNT2 also known as HIF2.beta.) and wherein the retinal
progenitor cells are expanded in culture media at a level of from
about 1% to about 6% oxygen concentration.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/160,002, filed Jun. 14, 2011, the content of which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The human retina is part of the central nervous system and,
both developmentally and phenotypically, the retina shares the
recalcitrance of brain and spinal cord with respect to functional
repair. This is unfortunate in that, among heritable conditions
alone, there are many examples of diseases involving the loss of
retinal neurons. For example, retinitis pigmentosa, age-related
macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are diseases
characterized by the progressive death of light sensing
photoreceptor cells of the retina. These diseases are the leading
causes of incurable blindness in the western world, and are
increasing rapidly in the developing Eastern world.
[0003] Since the intrinsic regenerative capacity of the human
retina is extremely limited, a promising potential therapy for
these diseases currently in research is a focus on cellular
replacement. One strategy for replacing these cells has been to
transplant retinal tissue from healthy donors to the retina of the
diseased host. While the results of such studies have been
encouraging in terms of graft survival, the problem of integration
between graft and host has proved daunting. Laboratory studies have
focused on multipotent stem cells (also variously referred to as
progenitor cells, immature cells, undifferentiated cells or
proliferative cells) for transplantation and differentiation.
Proliferative stem or progenitor cells have been isolated from the
hippocampus in laboratory animals, cultured and transplanted into
various sites within the central nervous system (CNS) to
subsequently differentiate into neurons and glial cells. Similarly,
adult hippocampal cells have been shown to be capable of migrating
into, and differentiating within, the mature dystrophic retina.
[0004] The isolation of true stem cells from the neuroretina,
particularly cells able to differentiate into functional
photoreceptor cells both in vitro and in vivo, has proven elusive.
Putative retinal stem cells derived from the ciliary marginal zone
pigment epithelial layer are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,117,675.
While these cells are said to be capable of proliferating in the
absence of growth factor, there is no evidence that these cells are
capable of integrating into a host retina and differentiating into
functional mature cells in vivo.
[0005] Commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,514,259 is directed to
neuroretina-derived photoreceptor cells which are capable of
repopulating a human retina. These cells are derived from neural
retinal tissue by removing the ciliary marginal zone and the optic
nerve to eliminate contamination, and can be obtained from
post-natal tissue.
[0006] Apart from difficulties involving the identification of
viable human retinal progenitor cells, there are significant
limitations involving the ability to culture these cells. Although
such cells posses the capacity to survive, to differentiate into
retinal neurons, and to integrate within the dystrophic host retina
following transplantation, these cells have limited proliferative
capacity. This represents a clear distinction between human retinal
progenitor cells and other less restricted undifferentiated cell
types, such as embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem
cells, which may not share such limitations.
[0007] For instance, and following isolation, human retinal
progenitor cells can only be passaged a maximum number of seven (7)
times in vitro without loss of multipotency, including the ability
to proliferate in vivo and to form mature retinal cell types. This
greatly limits the number of cells that can be obtained from a
single isolate, the number of transplants that can be performed
from a single cell isolation, and the further clinical application
of these cells.
[0008] Attempts to immortalize fetal human retinal cells using SV40
transfection have not proven successful since the cells fail to
express the markers of mature differentiated cells after
transplantation. Similarly, other methods for culturing cells, such
as the conditional immortalization or downregulation of pRb, as
described for Muller glial cell lines expressing retinal stem cell
genes, also yield cells which fail to differentiate into
photoreceptors.
[0009] A variety of stem cell types have included, inter alia, the
use of low oxygen culture conditions. See, for instance, U.S. Pat.
No. 6,759,242 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,610,540 which relate to the
enhanced differentiation of CNS precursor cells and neural crest
stem cells under low oxygen culture conditions.
[0010] In view of the aforementioned, as well as the importance of
human retinal progenitor cells for clinical evaluation and use, it
will readily be appreciated that a need exists to improve the
ability of such cells to reproduce in vitro while maintaining
multipotency properties in vivo. These and other objectives of the
invention will be clear from the following description.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The invention is directed to the use of low oxygen culture
conditions for enhancing the expression of retinal progenitor cells
in vitro, and for maintaining the multipotency of the cells in vivo
following transplantation into a host. The progenitor cells
according to the invention are capable of retinal-specific
differentiation into photoreceptors, and are therefore useful for
the treatment of retinal diseases upon transplantation into a
diseased eye. Thus, the invention provides a method to obtain a
population of multipotent retinal progenitor cells in vitro
suitable for in vivo transplantation into a host recipient. In one
aspect, the population of multipotent progenitor cells is
substantially homogeneous, e.g. clonally expanded.
[0012] According to the invention, human retinal progenitor cells
are obtained from viable neuroretinal source tissue, such as the
retinal neurosphere. The cells can be added to a suitable cell
culture media containing nutrients, buffering agents, and at least
one exogenous growth factor.
[0013] Suitable exogenous growth factors are selected from the
group consisting of epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic fibroblast
growth factor (bFGF), a combination of bFGF and EGF, and a
combination of EGF and bFGF and platelet-derived growth factor
(PDGF), or equivalents of each thereof.
[0014] The cells are cultured under low oxygen conditions for an
effective amount of time. By culturing under "low oxygen
conditions" is meant maintaining the oxygen concentration in the
culture media at a level of from about 1% to about 6%. An effective
amount of time intends that the cells have been cultured and
passaged at least 7, or alternatively at least 8, or alternatively,
at least 9, or yet further at least 10 times. In one aspect, the
passaged cells are tested to verify that the multipotency of the
cells is intact and are suitable for use in in vivo
applications.
[0015] Non-limiting suitable primary sources for the cells for use
in the disclosed methods include post-natal retinal tissue,
including mammalian, e.g., murine, simian, leporidae and human
adult tissue sources.
[0016] The cells and populations produced by the disclosed methods
have therapeutic use and can be autologous or allogeneic to the
host patient or recipient. Because the retinal progenitor cells are
capable of differentiating into photoreceptor cells, they are
useful to replace or repair photoreceptor tissue in a patient and,
e.g., for the treatment of degenerative diseases of the eye such as
retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration and diabetic
retinopathy.
[0017] The foregoing embodiments and aspects of the invention are
illustrative only, and are not meant to restrict the spirit and
scope of the claimed invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The foregoing and other advantages and features of the
invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed
description with reference to the accompanying figures and
drawings.
[0019] FIGS. 1A-1E are photomicrographs of a human fetal retina
showing the morphology of the retina. FIG. 1A depicts a retina at
20 weeks gestational age, while
[0020] FIGS. 1B-1E show various retina markers at 18 weeks
gestational age. Scale bars are 100 um.
[0021] FIGS. 2A-2F are photomicrographs showing human retinal
progenitor cells in culture expressing various progenitor and eye
development markers in primary culture 3 days after isolation.
FIGS. 2G and 2H show cell clumps and discrete cells dissociated and
cultured after first passage. Scale bars are 200 um.
[0022] FIG. 3 is a graph comparing the growth kinetics for human
retinal progenitor cells for both low oxygen cell culture
conditions and normal oxygen cell culture conditions.
[0023] FIGS. 4A-4D are photomicrographs and bar graphs showing
proliferative marker Ki67 and cell cycling marker CyclinD1
expression in low and regular oxygen conditions for passages 1, 3,
5, 7, 10 and 16 (only for low oxygen). FIG. 4E is a bar graph
showing cycle checkpoint protein p53 expression in regular oxygen
conditions. Scale bars are 50 um.
[0024] FIGS. 5A and 5B are a photomicrograph and a bar graph
showing the ratio of apoptotic cells in low and regular oxygen
culture conditions on passages 1-9. Scale bar is 50 um.
[0025] FIG. 6 is a bar graph of relative telomerase activity in
hRPCs obtained for passages 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 16 for low and
regular oxygen conditions.
[0026] FIGS. 7A-7E are a series of bar graphs showing the ratio of
cells expressing specialized photoreceptor retinal cell markers in
maintenance conditions and at 2, 5 and 9 days post-differentiation
on passages 1, 5, 10 and 16.
[0027] FIGS. 8A-8F are a series of bar graphs showing the ratio of
cells expressing specialized retinal cells markers in maintenance
conditions and at passages 1, 5, 10 and 16.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described
herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present
invention, the preferred methods, devices, and materials are now
described. All technical and patent publications cited herein are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Nothing herein
is to be construed as an admission that the invention is not
entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior
invention.
[0029] The practice of the present invention will employ, unless
otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of tissue culture,
immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology and
recombinant DNA, which are within the skill of the art. See, e.g.,
Sambrook and Russell eds. (2001) Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory
Manual, 3.sup.rd edition; the series Ausubel et al. eds. (2007)
Current Protocols in Molecular Biology; the series Methods in
Enzymology (Academic Press, Inc., N.Y.); MacPherson et al. (1991)
PCR 1: A Practical Approach (IRL Press at Oxford University Press);
MacPherson et al. (1995) PCR 2: A Practical Approach; Harlow and
Lane eds. (1999) Antibodies, A Laboratory Manual; Freshney (2005)
Culture of Animal Cells: A Manual of Basic Technique, 5.sup.th
edition; Gait ed. (1984) Oligonucleotide Synthesis; U.S. Pat. No.
4,683,195; Hames and Higgins eds. (1984) Nucleic Acid
Hybridization; Anderson (1999) Nucleic Acid Hybridization; Hames
and Higgins eds. (1984) Transcription and Translation; Immobilized
Cells and Enzymes (IRL Press (1986)); Perbal (1984) A Practical
Guide to Molecular Cloning; Miller and Calos eds. (1987) Gene
Transfer Vectors for Mammalian Cells (Cold Spring Harbor
Laboratory); Makrides ed. (2003) Gene Transfer and Expression in
Mammalian Cells; Mayer and Walker eds. (1987) Immunochemical
Methods in Cell and Molecular Biology (Academic Press, London); and
Herzenberg et al. eds (1996) Weir's Handbook of Experimental
Immunology.
[0030] All numerical designations, e.g., pH, temperature, time,
concentration, and molecular weight, including ranges, are
approximations which are varied (+) or (-) by increments of 1.0 or
0.1, as appropriate. It is to be understood, although not always
explicitly stated, that all numerical designations are preceded by
the term "about". It also is to be understood, although not always
explicitly stated, that the reagents described herein are merely
exemplary and that equivalents of such are known in the art.
[0031] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and
all purposes, particularly in terms of providing a written
description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all
possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any
listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing
and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal
halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting
example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down
into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also
be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as "up
to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," and the like include
the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently
broken down into subranges as discussed above.
[0032] As used in the specification and claims, the singular form
"a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context
clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" includes a plurality of
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, including mixtures
thereof.
[0033] As used herein, the term "comprising" is intended to mean
that the compositions and methods include the recited elements, but
do not exclude others. "Consisting essentially of" when used to
define compositions and methods, shall mean excluding other
elements of any essential significance to the combination for the
intended use. Thus, a composition consisting essentially of the
elements as defined herein would not exclude trace contaminants
from the isolation and purification method and pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers, such as phosphate buffered saline,
preservatives, and the like. "Consisting of" shall mean excluding
more than trace elements of other ingredients and substantial
method steps for administering the compositions of this invention.
Embodiments defined by each of these transition terms are within
the scope of this invention.
[0034] A "host" or "patient" of this invention is an animal such as
a mammal, or a human. Non-human animals subject to diagnosis or
treatment are those in need of treatment such as for example,
simians, murines, such as, rats, mice, canines, such as dogs,
leporids, such as rabbits, livestock, sport animals, and pets.
[0035] The term "isolated" means separated from constituents,
cellular and otherwise, in which the cell, tissue, polynucleotide,
peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody or fragment(s) thereof,
which are normally associated in nature. For example, an isolated
polynucleotide is separated from the 3' and 5' contiguous
nucleotides with which it is normally associated in its native or
natural environment, e.g., on the chromosome. As is apparent to
those of skill in the art, a non-naturally occurring
polynucleotide, peptide, polypeptide, protein, antibody or
fragment(s) thereof, does not require "isolation" to distinguish it
from its naturally occurring counterpart. An isolated cell is a
cell that is separated form tissue or cells of dissimilar phenotype
or genotype.
[0036] As used herein, "stem cell" defines a cell with the ability
to divide for indefinite periods in culture and give rise to
specialized cells. At this time and for convenience, stem cells are
categorized as somatic (adult) or embryonic. A somatic stem cell is
an undifferentiated cell found in a differentiated tissue that can
renew itself (clonal) and (with certain limitations) differentiate
to yield all the specialized cell types of the tissue from which it
originated. An embryonic stem cell is a primitive
(undifferentiated) cell from the embryo that has the potential to
become a wide variety of specialized cell types. An embryonic stem
cell is one that has been cultured under in vitro conditions that
allow proliferation without differentiation for months to years.
Pluripotent embryonic stem cells can be distinguished from other
types of cells by the use of marker including, but not limited to,
Oct-4, alkaline phosphatase, CD30, TDGF-1, GCTM-2, Genesis, Germ
cell nuclear factor, SSEA1, SSEA3, and SSEA4. The term "stem cell"
also includes "dedifferentiated" stem cells, an example of which is
a somatic cell which is directly converted to a stem cell, i.e.
reprogrammed. A clone is a line of cells that is genetically
identical to the originating cell; in this case, a stem cell.
[0037] The term "propagate" means to grow or alter the phenotype of
a cell or population of cells. The term "growing" or "expanding"
refers to the proliferation of cells in the presence of supporting
media, nutrients, growth factors, support cells, or any chemical or
biological compound necessary for obtaining the desired number of
cells or cell type. In one embodiment, the growing of cells results
in the regeneration of tissue. In yet another embodiment, the
tissue is comprised of cardiomyocytes.
[0038] The term "culturing" refers to the in vitro propagation of
cells or organisms on or in media of various kinds. It is
understood that the descendants of a cell grown in culture may not
be completely identical (i.e., morphologically, genetically, or
phenotypically) to the parent cell. By "expanded" is meant any
proliferation or division of cells. "Clonal proliferation" refers
to the growth of a population of cells by the continuous division
of single cells into two identical daughter cells and/or population
of identical cells.
[0039] As used herein, the "lineage" of a cell defines the heredity
of the cell, i.e. its predecessors and progeny. The lineage of a
cell places the cell within a hereditary scheme of development and
differentiation.
[0040] "Differentiation" describes the process whereby an
unspecialized cell acquires the features of a specialized cell such
as a heart, liver, or muscle cell. "Directed differentiation"
refers to the manipulation of stem cell culture conditions to
induce differentiation into a particular cell type or phenotype.
"Dedifferentiated" defines a cell that reverts to a less committed
position within the lineage of a cell. As used herein, the term
"differentiates or differentiated" defines a cell that takes on a
more committed ("differentiated") position within the lineage of a
cell.
[0041] "Retinal progenitor cells", or "neuroretina-derived retinal
stem cells", or "retinal stem cells", as those terms are used
herein, are synonymous and mean isolated viable stem cells derived
from neuroretinal tissue, such as the retinal neurosphere. The
point of origin of these cells is one factor that distinguishes
them from non-neural retinal cells, such as pigmented cells of the
retinal pigment epithelium, the ciliary body or the iris. The cells
of the invention are further distinguished by an inability to
proliferate in the absence of growth factors. The cells of the
invention can derived from either pre-natal or post-natal sources,
and are capable of self-renewal, multipotency, and retina-specific
differentiation into photoreceptors. Such cells are more
particularly described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,514,259, the disclosure
of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The
retinal stem cells of the invention are capable of: (a)
self-renewal in vitro; (b) differentiating into neurons and
astrocytes (but not oligodendrocytes); (c) integrating into the
neuroretina following transplantation to the posterior segment of
the eye; and (d) differentiation into photoreceptor cells when
grafted onto a retinal explant, or into the mature eye of a
recipient.
[0042] As used herein in connection with the retinal progenitor
cells of the invention, the term "multipotency", means the ability
of the retinal progenitor cells to proliferate and form mature
retinal cell types, particularly photoreceptor cells.
[0043] "Substantially homogeneous" describes a population of cells
in which more than about 50%, or alternatively more than about 60%,
or alternatively more than 70%, or alternatively more than 75%, or
alternatively more than 80%, or alternatively more than 85%, or
alternatively more than 90%, or alternatively, more than 95%, of
the cells are of the same or similar phenotype. Phenotype can be
determined by a pre-selected cell surface marker or other marker,
e.g. myosin or actin or the expression of a gene or protein,
[0044] A "biocompatible scaffold" refers to a scaffold or matrix
for tissue-engineering purposes with the ability to perform as a
substrate that will support the appropriate cellular activity to
generate the desired tissue, including the facilitation of
molecular and mechanical signaling systems, without eliciting any
undesirable effect in those cells or inducing any undesirable local
or systemic responses in the eventual host. In other embodiments, a
biocompatible scaffold is a precursor to an implantable device
which has the ability to perform its intended function, with the
desired degree of incorporation in the host, without eliciting an
undesirable local or systemic effects in the host. Biocompatible
scaffolds are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,638,369.
[0045] As used herein, the terms "treating," "treatment" and the
like are used herein to mean obtaining a desired pharmacologic
and/or physiologic effect. The effect can be prophylactic in terms
of completely or partially preventing a disorder or sign or symptom
thereof, and/or can be therapeutic in terms of a partial or
complete cure for a disorder and/or adverse effect attributable to
the disorder. Examples of "treatment" include but are not limited
to: preventing a disorder from occurring in a subject that may be
predisposed to a disorder, but has not yet been diagnosed as having
it; inhibiting a disorder, i.e., arresting its development; and/or
relieving or ameliorating the symptoms of disorder, e.g., macular
degeneration. As is understood by those skilled in the art,
"treatment" can include systemic amelioration of the symptoms
associated with the pathology and/or a delay in onset of symptoms
such as chest pain. Clinical and sub-clinical evidence of
"treatment" will vary with the pathology, the individual and the
treatment.
[0046] The terms "physiologic", or "physiologic oxygen", as used
herein, refer to the low oxygen concentrations of the invention of
from about 1% to about 6%, and the particularly preferred
concentrations of from about 2% to about 4% as measured in the
culture media. As is apparent to the skilled artisan, the oxygen
level of the culturing device may be slightly higher in order to
obtain the appropriate oxygen concentration in the media to which
the cells are exposed.
[0047] The oxygen concentration in mammalian cell tissues in vivo
typically varies from 0.5% for the retina to 19% for the upper
airway epithelia. In the retina in particular, the adult retina
oxygen concentration (or oxygen "tension") varies from about 0.5%
for the inner nuclear layer to about 7% for the outer segments of
the retina. For most cell cultures, the oxygen concentration is
normally maintained at about 20%, the so-called "normaoxic" level.
The term "anoxic", as may be used herein, refers to oxygen
concentrations of less than about 1%.
[0048] A "composition" is intended to mean a combination of active
agent, cell or population of cells and another compound or
composition, inert (for example, a detectable agent or label) or
active, such as a biocompatible scaffold.
[0049] A "pharmaceutical composition" is intended to include the
combination of an active agent with a carrier, inert or active such
as a biocompatible scaffold, making the composition suitable for
diagnostic or therapeutic use in vitro, in vivo or ex vivo.
[0050] As used herein, the term "pharmaceutically acceptable
carrier" encompasses any of the standard pharmaceutical carriers,
such as a phosphate buffered saline solution, water, and emulsions,
such as an oil/water or water/oil emulsion, and various types of
wetting agents. The compositions also can include stabilizers and
preservatives. For examples of carriers, stabilizers and adjuvants,
see Martin, Remington's Pharm. Sci., 15th Ed. (Mack Publ. Co.,
Easton (1975)).
[0051] An "effective amount" is an amount sufficient to effect
beneficial or desired results. An effective amount can be
administered in one or more administrations, applications or
dosages.
Cells, Populations and Compositions
[0052] The invention relates to a process for producing an isolated
population of multipotent retinal stem cells in vitro suitable for
therapeutic use. The method requires culturing an isolated retinal
progenitor cell under low oxygen conditions, typically wherein the
oxygen concentration utilized in the culture media is from about 1%
to about 6%, preferably from about 2% to about 4%. It has been
found that the methods of the invention permit the expansion of
human retinal progenitor cells in vitro, increase cell
proliferation and multipotency marker expression, and decrease cell
apoptosis. Importantly, the expanded cells of the invention
maintain the ability to differentiate into specialized retinal
cells, particularly photoreceptor cells.
[0053] Thus, in one aspect, the invention provides an in vitro
method for preparing an isolated population of multipotent
progenitor retinal progenitor cells, comprising culturing an
isolated primary retinal progenitor cell under low oxygen
conditions, wherein the low oxygen conditions comprise from about
1% to about 6% oxygen content of the culture medium, for an
effective amount of time while maintaining multipotency of the
cells, The isolated retinal progenitor cell to be cultured can be a
primary retinal cell isolated from host tissue, e.g., a living host
or a cadaver, prenatal sources, fetal tissue or adult tissue, and
can be isolated from the retinal neurosphere. The cells can also be
identified by markers, that include, for example, Otx2, Sox2,
Pax6--eye field development transcription factors; CyclinD1, Ki67,
hTERT--proliferative markers; cMyc, Klf4, Oct4--"stemness"
transcription factors; SSEA4--surface antigen, characteristic for
undifferentiated cells. Methods of screening for such factors are
known in the art and described herein.
[0054] Culturing in low oxygen can be accomplished in more than one
culture medium as described below Prior to use, the cells can
further be isolated from the medium and combined with an
appropriate pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, non-limiting
examples of which are described herein and know to the skilled
artisan. In addition and prior to use, the isolated cells or cell
populations can be further assayed for multipotency by screening,
e.g., HIF1 alpha and HIF2 alpha as well as for the above-noted stem
cell markers or independently or in combination with a telomerase
assay as described below.
[0055] Suitable conditions for culturing include culturing in the
presence of at least one growth factor as described herein and for
at least 7, or alternatively at least 8, or further at least 9 or
yet further at least 10 passages in low oxygen conditions.
[0056] The primary source of the cells can be from any suitable
animal species as described herein. In one aspect, the primary
retinal progenitor cells are isolated from post-natal retinal
tissue, e.g., from the retinal neurosphere.
[0057] The expanded population of cells is further provided herein.
Thus, in one aspect this disclosure provides an isolated
population, e.g., an isolated substantially homogenous population
of multipotent retinal cells produced by a method of one any of
claims 1, 1b and 2-7.
[0058] According to the invention, isolated human retinal
progenitor cells can be derived by the dissection of the human
neural retina. During dissection, it may necessary to manage the
highly tenacious vitreous gel component. This can be accomplished
using a variety of techniques, alone or in combination, including
vitrectomy, ocular inversion, mechanical resection and absorbent
debridement, as well as enzymatic digestion. Suitable enzymes for
this purpose include, but are not limited to, hyaluronidases and
collagenases. It may also be advantageous to remove non-neural
retinal tissue from the specimen used for retinal stem cell
isolation. The non-neural tissue includes the optic nerve head and
epithelium of the pars plana of the ciliary body, which is
typically adherent along the peripheral margin (ora serrata). The
tissue is preferably handled using aseptic techniques.
[0059] The isolated neuroretinal tissue can be mechanically
macerated, and passed through a nylon mesh screen of about 100
micron pore size to dissociate the isolated neuroretinal tissue
into cells. The use of a sterile small pore filter screen for the
mechanical dissociation of the tissue permits the minimization of
the use of enzymes that can degrade cell surface molecules such as
growth factor receptors.
[0060] An aliquot of cells from the dissected tissue can then be
placed in a culture vessel, such as a plastic tissue culture flask,
which is preferably coated with a protein layer. Advantageously,
the layer may be polyornithine overlaid with laminin or
fibronectin.
[0061] The aliquot of cells can then be incubated, if preferred, in
a first cell culture medium to provide an initial cell
concentration for about 24 hours at about 35.degree. C.-39.degree.
C., in low oxygen conditions (1% to 6%, preferably 2% to 4%, and
most preferably 3% in the culture media). The first cell culture
medium can include a physiologically balanced salt solution
containing a D-glucose content of from about 0.5-3.0 mg/liter,
preferably about 1 mg/liter, N.sub.2 Supplement, and about 5-15%
fetal calf serum, as well as 5-15% by volume
neural/retinal-conditioned media and an effective amount of at
least one antibiotic, such as gentamycin.
[0062] After about 24 hours of incubation in the first culture
medium, that medium can be removed from the culture vessel. Then, a
second culture medium that is essentially serum-free, is added to
the culture vessel. The second culture medium can include a
physiologically balanced salt solution containing a glucose content
of about 0.5-3.0 mg/liter, preferably 1 mg/liter (e.g., DMEM/F-12
high glucose), N.sub.2 Supplement, at least one growth factor at a
concentration of about 30-50 ng/ml per growth factor, an effective
amount of L-glutamine (about 0.5-3.0 mM, preferably about 1.0 mM),
an effective amount of neural progenitor cell-conditioned medium,
and an effective amount of at least one antibiotic, such as
penicillin and/or streptomycin, in a low oxygen concentration as
described previously. Advantageously, penicillin and/or
streptomycin may be added as follows: 10,000 units/ml pen, 10,000
microgram/ml strep, added 1:50-150, preferably 1:100, for a final
concentration of 100 units/ml, 100 microgram/ml, respectively, in
the culture medium. Those of ordinary skill in the art reading this
specification will appreciate that minor modifications can be made
to the design of the culture media components and operating
conditions.
[0063] The cell isolation and culture method of the invention can
typically include the regular removal of non-viable cells and a
portion of the culture medium from the culture vessel in which the
cells are cultured, and replacing said portion with an equivalent
amount of fresh, second culture medium. This culture maintenance
step may be performed approximately every 2-7 days during the
lifetime of the cell culture.
[0064] Maintenance of low oxygen conditions can be achieved using
commercially available incubators with oxygen concentration
control, or by placing culture flasks into chambers with manually
controlled or digitally controlled temperature settings, humidity
and concentrations of oxygen and carbon dioxide.
[0065] The survival and effectiveness of human retinal progenitor
cells in vitro is influenced by numerous factors including the
incorporation of various additives in the culture medium such as
supplements, mitogens, serum and growth factors. In particular, the
culture medium should include an exogenous growth factor to induce
proliferation and survival in vitro. Effective exogenous growth
factors include neurotrophins; mitogens; cytokines; growth factors;
hormones; and combinations thereof, as will be appreciated by one
of ordinary skill in the art. Advantageously, the culture medium
includes one of the following growth factors or combinations of
growth factors: epidermal growth factor (EGF), basic fibroblast
growth factor (bFGF), a combination of bFGF and EGF, and a
combination of EGF and bFGF and platelet-derived growth factor
(PDGF) or an equivalent of each thereof.
[0066] Without being bound by theory, it has now been found that
the maintenance of the cells, and the preservation of cell
multipotency, is influenced by low oxygen concentration in the
culture medium. While low oxygen concentration affects cell
metabolism by several pathways, it has been found that the main
mediators of cellular activity are the two Hypoxia Inducible
Factors HIF1a and HIF2a (Hypoxia Inducible Factor 1 alpha and 2
alpha). These mediators are constitutively expressed but
hydroxylated and ubiquitinated at oxygen concentrations of more
than about 6%. Conversely, if the oxygen level is decreased, the
HIF alpha subunits dimerise with the HIF beta subunit (ARNT), and
the resulting complex is transported to the cell nucleus where it
functions as a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor.
[0067] HIF1 alpha expression is found in all types of cells.
However, HIF2 alpha expression is limited to certain organs, such
as the brain, heart, lung, kidney, liver, pancreas, intestine and
retina. HIF1 alpha regulates metabolic pathways (shift to
glycolysis), tissue remodeling (increase in metalloproteases and
decrease in ECM production), migration (cheomokine expression),
pro-survival pathways (for different cell types and oxygen tension:
the HIF1a-ARNT complex may cause an increase in apoptosis via
BNIP3, NIX, or a decrease in apoptosis by p53 inhibition and Epo
activation), and genome methylation (3h3mCoenzA, JMJD1A). HIF2
alpha activates TGF alpha, the multipotency transcription factors
Oct4, cMyc, Sox2, and Cyclin (D1, D2 and E2F) expression. Both
HIF1a and HIF2a influence growth factor signaling.
[0068] The ability to significantly expand the number of cells to
produce a population of multipotent retinal progenitor cells from
an initial isolated population limited in size is critical for
clinical studies involving such cells, as well as the eventual use
of the cells for the treatment of degenerative ocular diseases
using transplantation techniques. The current level of cell
production achievable using conventional techniques is on the order
of 10.sup.9 to 10.sup.10 cells for in vitro expansion of a single
isolate. This level is generally inadequate for clinical use. It
has now been found that this level of proliferation can be
increased to 10.sup.18 to 10.sup.19 cells for each cell source by
using low oxygen culture conditions in vitro.
[0069] In addition, it has also been found that the use of low
oxygen culture conditions resulted in a doubling of the
proliferation speed, thereby decreasing the accumulation of genome
changes while promoting the positive selection for viable
progenitors. These results are confirmed by the high levels of Ki67
and CyclinD1 expression compared to passage 0 (isolation time
point). The number of Ki67 expressing cells decreased significantly
with passage in 20% oxygen conditions, but not in 3% oxygen
conditions.
[0070] As indicated previously, the presence of both HIF (1 and 2)
alpha isoforms was observed in human retinal progenitor cells.
However, these markers play different roles in cell fate. HIF1
alpha primarily mediates hypoxic effects, while HIF2 alpha mediates
the physiologic effects of low oxygen concentration. Hypoxic
effects include stabilizing p53, blocking cell cycle progression
and proliferation, and activating apoptosis. Physiologic effects
include an increase in proliferation, multipotency gene expression,
TERT upregulation, and cell cycle progression. HIF2 alpha is
stabilized in human retinal progenitor cells at oxygen
concentrations of 1% to 6%, and preferably from 2% to 4%, and this
stabilization is maintained during cell passaging. Moreover, the
functional properties of human retinal progenitor cells, including
multipotency, are also stabilized.
[0071] Under normoxic conditions, the expansion of human retinal
progenitor cells in vitro is linked to a loss in the ability of the
cells to differentiate into mature cell types, such as
photoreceptors and ganglion cells. However, under low oxygen
conditions, human retinal progenitor cells have been shown to
retain the ability to differentiate into photoreceptors.
[0072] Summarizing, the use of low oxygen conditions for culturing
human retinal progenitor is beneficial and results in rates of
proliferation double the rates for normoxic conditions, and
further, the rates of cell proliferation are preserved at least
through passage 16. For normoxic conditions, the cell proliferation
rate reached a plateau at passages 5 and 6, while the use of low
oxygen conditions showed only a small decrease in the proliferation
rate. Further, cells expanded under low oxygen conditions have been
shown to preserve their genomic integrity and multipotency
properties. This also results in an increase in cell survival and
integration stability following transplantation due to a switch to
glycolysis, and the activation of pro-survival pathways and matrix
metalloproteases.
[0073] Also provided by this invention are methods to genetically
modify the isolated cell population by inserting or modulating the
expression of one or more genes using methods known to the skilled
artisan. In one aspect, such modification is achieved by
transducing a polynucleotide encoding the gene into the source cell
by any suitable method. For example, the polynucleotide of interest
is inserted into a vector such as a viral vector which is then
contacted with the cell under conditions that facilitate transfer
of the vector and polynucleotide into the cell. The recipient cell
is grown or propagated under suitable conditions to express the
inserted gene. In other aspects, the cell is modified to enhance
expression of the endogenous gene of interest. In further aspects,
the genes are overexpressed as compared to a wild-type counterpart
cell by inserting numerous copies of the polynucleotide or
alternatively, enhancing expression of the endogenous gene of
interest. Compositions and methods to reduce or block endogenous
expression are also utilized. To promote expression,
polynucleotides encoding the protein of interest can be introduced.
To inhibit expression, polynucleotides or agents such as blocking
antibodies, ribozymes, antisense polynucleotides or other
inhibiting agents, can be introduced into the cell or population of
cells.
Therapeutic Use
[0074] This invention also provides methods for replacing or
repairing photoreceptor cells in a patient in need of this
treatment comprising administering to the patient an effective
amount of the isolated population or composition as described
herein. In one aspect, the compositions and cell populations can
treat or alleviate the symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa in a
patient in need of the treatment by administering an effective
amount of the populations or compositions. Further provided is a
method for treating or alleviating the symptoms of age related
macular degeneration in a patient in need of this treatment,
comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of the
isolated population or composition thereby treating or alleviating
the symptoms of age related macular degeneration in said patient.
For all of these treatments, the cells can be autologous or
allogeneic to the patient. Patients include without limitation,
mammals, such as murines, canines, felines, and human patients.
[0075] Administration of the cells or compositions can be effected
in one dose, continuously or intermittently throughout the course
of treatment. Methods of determining the most effective means and
dosage of administration are known to those of skill in the art and
will vary with the composition used for therapy, the purpose of the
therapy and the subject being treated. Single or multiple
administrations can be carried out with the dose level and pattern
being selected by the treating physician. Suitable dosage
formulations and methods of administering the agents are known in
the art. In a further aspect, the cells and composition of the
invention can be administered in combination with other
treatments.
Screening Assays
[0076] The present invention provides methods for screening various
agents that modulate the differentiation of a retinal progenitor
cell. For the purposes of this invention, an "agent" is intended to
include, but not be limited to a biological or chemical compound
such as a simple or complex organic or inorganic molecule, a
peptide, a protein (e.g. antibody), a polynucleotide (e.g.
anti-sense) or a ribozyme. A vast array of compounds can be
synthesized, for example polymers, such as polypeptides and
polynucleotides, and synthetic organic compounds based on various
core structures, and these are also included in the term "agent."
In addition, various natural sources can provide compounds for
screening, such as plant or animal extracts, and the like. It
should be understood, although not always explicitly stated, that
the agent is used alone or in combination with another agent,
having the same or different biological activity as the agents
identified by the inventive screen.
[0077] To practice the screening method in vitro, the isolated
population of cells is obtained as described above. When the agent
is a composition other than a DNA or RNA, such as a small molecule
as described above, the agent can be directly added to the cells or
added to culture medium for addition. As is apparent to those
skilled in the art, an "effective" a mount must be added which can
be empirically determined. When the agent is a polynucleotide, it
can be directly added by use of a gene gun or electroporation.
Alternatively, it can be inserted into the cell using a gene
delivery vehicle or other method as described above. Positive and
negative controls can be assayed to confirm the purported activity
of the drug or other agent.
[0078] The invention may be further described and illustrated in
the following examples which are not in tended to limit the scope
of the invention thereby.
EXAMPLES
Materials and Methods
Retina Morphology
[0079] The morphology of the neural retina at 20 weeks gestational
age was investigated. One eye cup was fixed in Karnovsky fixative,
embedded in plastic and cut (2 um thick) with H&E staining. One
eye cup was fixed in 4% PFA, embedded in OCT, cryosectioned (6 um
thick) with further immunohystochemistry for Ki67, Sox2, Pax6,
Recoverin, beta3-tubulin, laminin, Opsin Red/Green, Opsin Blue,
Rhodopsin, Calbindin and mGluR6.
Cell Isolation
[0080] hRPCs (human retinal progenitor cells) were isolated as
described, with small modifications, in the following references:
Klassen, H. J. et al., Multipotent Retinal Progenitors Express
Developmental Markers, Differentiate into Retinal Neurons, and
Preserve Light-Mediated Behavior, Invest. Opthalmol. Vis. Sci.,
2004, 45(11), pages 4167-4173; Klassen, H. et al., Isolation of
Retinal Progenitor Cells from Post-Mortem Human Tissue and
Comparison with Autologous Brain Progenitors, J. Neuroscience
Research, 2004, 77(3), pages 334-343; Klassen, H. et al.,
Progenitor Cells from the Porcine Neural Retina Express
Photoreceptor Markers after Transplantation to the Subretinal Space
of Allorecipients; Stem Cells, 2007, 25(5); pages 1222-1230.
Briefly, whole neuroretinas from human fetal eyes (16-20 weeks
gestational age) were dissected, dissociated in 0.1% collagenase I
(Sigma) during 4 cycles (1.5 hour of fermentation in total), and
plated in modified Ultraculture media (10 ng/ml rhEGF, 20 ng/ml
rhbFGF, Pen/strep, Nystatin and L-glutamine) or frozen. The amount
and viability of single cells and clumps were estimated using
Trypan blue and a haemocytometer.
Cell Culture
[0081] Cells were plated at a density of approximately 10,000
cells/cm.sup.2 and cultured under either physiologic oxygen (3%
oxygen) or normoxic (20% oxygen) conditions at 37.degree. C., 100%
humidity, 5% CO.sup.2 in modified Ultracutlure media (10 ng/ml
rhEGF, 20 ng/ml rhbFGF, Pen/strep, Nystatin and L-glutamine) on
flasks coated with bovine serum fibronectin (Akron). Cells were
passaged at 75%-85% confluence (usually each 2-5 days) using
Trypsin-EDTA solution. At each passage, the cells were counted and
plated at the density mentioned above. Low-oxygen conditions were
created in a Thermo 150i incubator, not exceeding the limit of 6%
oxygen.
Cell Proliferation and Growth Curve
[0082] Cell proliferation in both conditions was assessed during
routine passaging by cell count via a haemocytometer (at least in
two flasks for each passage/source). CyQuant NF assay (Invitrogen)
was performed to estimate proliferation speed on each passage: a
calibration curve was built by plating 1000, 2000, 4000 and 8000
cells in wells of a 96-well plate (BD Optilux). The amount of cells
in experimental wells (4000 cells/well) was assessed by CyQuant
staining after 48 and 72 hours (n=4 for calibration curve and n=6
for experimental wells).
Apoptosis
[0083] hRPCs (p1-p9) for TUNEL assay (Roche) were plated in 16-well
slides coated with fibronectin, the same way as for maintenance
conditions (4,000 of alive cells in each well, hRPC media with
supplements); 48 hours after plating cells were fixed,
permeabilised (0.01% Triton-X, 0.01% sodium citrate), and stained
for double-stained DNA breaks. Slides were mounted, and a cell
count was performed in 9 fields of view for each condition. Western
blot analysis for pro-survival pathway proteins p44/42 and p38
(Cell Signaling) was performed for passages 1, 5 and 10 in both
conditions (protein was collected after 4 days in culture).
Immunocytochemistry
[0084] Cells were assessed via immunocytochemical analysis at
passages 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 in both conditions, and on passage 16 in
3% oxygen for sternness and proliferation marker expression: Otx2,
Sox2, Pax6--eye field development transcription factors; CyclinD1,
Ki67, hTERT--proliferative markers; cMyc, Klf4, Oct4--"stemness"
transcription factors; SSEA4--surface antigen, characteristic for
undifferentiated cells. For this purpose, 4,000 cells were plated
in each well of 16-well fibronectin coated chamber glass slides
(Nunc). After 24 hours of incubation under appropriate conditions,
cells were washed in PBS, fixed (cold, freshly prepared 4% PFA),
permeabilised (0.02% Triton X-100 in 5% BSA), blocked and stained
with primary antibodies overnight at 4.degree. C., and secondary
antibodies (1:50, Goat Cy3-conjugated anti-rabbit or anti-mouse,
Jackson Immunoresearch) for 1 hr at room temperature.
Western Blot
[0085] hRPCs cultured under the conditions described above (3% and
20% oxygen) for 4 days were harvested for protein analysis on
passages 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 16, lysed in RIPA buffer, and analyzed
for protein expression by Western blot. Proteins were separated on
8% SDS-PAGE gel, transferred to a PVDF membrane (Bio-Rad), which
was blocked with 5% non-fat milk (Bio-Rad) in TBS-T, and stained
with antibodies diluted in 5% BSA in TBS-T (EGFR, HIF1alpha,
HIF2alpha, hTERT, Nestin, Sox2, Oct4, Klf4, cMyc, p44/42, and p38).
Resulting bands were imaged with ECL Plus (Perkin Elmer) and
CL-Xposure film (Thermo Scientific). Anit-bActin HRP-linked
antibodies (Abcam) were used as a loading control. Band square was
measured using ImageJ.
Telomerase Activity Assay
[0086] Telomerase activity was assessed in both experimental
conditions on passages 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 16 by the TRAPeze method
according to the manufacturer's (Millipore) instructions. Briefly,
cells were harvested, lysed in CHAPS buffer for 30 minutes on ice,
and the telomers were amplified for 30 minutes at 30.degree. C. The
products were amplified using Platinum Taq (Invitrogen), separated
by PAGE gel electrophoresis (non-reducing conditions) and stained
with SYBR Gold (1:10000, Invitrogen) for 20 minutes at room
temperature.
Differentiation Abilities In Vitro
[0087] To assess the ability of hRPCs to differentiate in vitro,
hRPCs expanded in 3% oxygen were plated from passages 1, 5, 10 and
16 on fibronectin & laminin-coated 16-well slides. The cells
were cultured in differentiating media (DMEM/F12, 1XNEAA, L-glu, 5%
HI FBS, Pen/strep and Nystatin) in 3% oxygen. On days 2, 5 and 9,
cells were fixed and stained for blue opsin (short-wave cones),
red/green opsin (long-wave cones), rhodopsin (rods), recoverin
(photoreceptor precursor), calbindin (horizontal cells), GFAP
(Muller & ganglion cells), Glutamine sythetase (ganglion
cells), MAP2 and CyclinD3 (gangion cells) and PKCa (bipolar cells).
The same staining was performed for hPRC on the same passages but
after 24 hours in maintenance conditions. The ability to
differentiate was estimated by comparing the number of cells
expressing mature retinal markers in differentiating versus
maintenance conditions.
Results
Eye Morphology
[0088] The human neural retina at 20 weeks gestational age is 250
um thick, compared to 500 um thick for an adult retina. Three
layers of the retina can be distinguished at this age. The ganglion
cell layer is separated from the others by the inner plexiform
layer, while the inner and outer nuclear layers only start to
diverge. An outer plexiform layer is not present at this stage of
development. Due to the absence of rods and cones outer segments,
the outer limiting membrane is not present, while the space between
the ganglion cell layer and inner limiting membrane is wider than
the inner plexiform layer. See FIG. 1A, which shows that the outer
and inner nuclear layers are not completely separated, with outer
segments not present, while the inner limiting membrane (arrows)
and ganglion layer have been formed.
[0089] At 18 weeks gestational age, the innermost portion of the
ganglion cell layer is presented by single, recoverin-positive
cells. Signs of developed photoreceptors (staining for Blue and
Red/Green opsins, rhodopsin, outer segments showed negative) have
not been found, which makes neural retina at this age good for
precursor isolation. Recoverin expression was limited by several
cell layers within the outer nuclear layer and single cells
(possibly photosensitive ganglion cells) in the ganglion cell
layer. Ki67 is present in the middle of the conglomerate of inner
and outer nuclear layers--but not in the layers, expressing
recoverin. Sox2 is expressed in all cells within the neural retina,
but at low levels in cells close to the outer limiting membrane.
FIG. 1B shows proliferative marker Ki67 present in the middle of
the inner and outer nuclear layers, but not in the layers,
expressing recoverin. FIG. 1C shows neural progenitor marker Sox2
expressed in all cells within the neural retina, with slightly
decreased levels in the outer nuclear layer. FIG. 1D shows that
recoverin (photoreceptor precursor marker) expression was limited
to the outer nuclear layer and single cells in the ganglion cell
layer. FIG. 1E shows that the Pax6 marker is present in both the
outer and inner nuclear layers.
Cell Isolation and Cell Culture
[0090] It was found that hRPC isolation can be performed up to 24
hours after enucleation. From each pair of eyes we can obtain 17.8
mln (+/-1.5 mln) single cells (with viability of 52%+/-16% mln) and
1.5 mln (+/-0.5 mln) clumps, consisting of 10-100 cells. The clump
viability, indirectly assessed by adhesion to fibronectin during
the first hour after plating, was about 70% and does not vary
between two conditions. Cell and clump viability does not decrease
greatly after freeze/thaw. Most of the small single cells, isolated
from the retina, die on the second-third day after plating, and
most of the primary pool was obtained from the clumps outgrowth.
FIG. 2H shows the clumps. After the first passage, cells slightly
increased in size but kept high nucleus/cytoplasm ratio, obtain
triangle or spindle morphology and the culture became more
homogeneous. FIG. 2G shows dissociated and cultured cells becoming
more homogeneous, obtaining higher levels of Ki67 expression,
losing recoverin and increasing in size.
[0091] The ratio of Ki67 and Pax6 expressing cells in culture was
approximately the same as in the retina prior to isolation, but
much lower than during further passaging. The ratio of
recoverin-positive cells was decreased, and the cells did not
survive further passaging, while the rate of Sox2 expression
increased, which suggests a sort of positive selection for
progenitors (Sox2) and a negative selection for late precursors
(recoverin). Despite some reports that cell adhesion decreases in
low oxygen conditions due to Integrin downregulation, no
differences were observed in hRPC adhesion to fibronectin-coated
(75 ug/ml) culture surfaces. As shown earlier, proper adhesion is
critical for survival and expansion of these cells. In specified
maintenance conditions, hRPC cells remain unchanged until passages
3-4 in regular oxygen conditions, and passages 9-10 in low oxygen
conditions, while their morphology flattened. FIG. 2A shows that
Ki67 expression in primary culture was low compared to further
passages. FIGS. 2B and 2C show that Pax6 and Otx2 were expressed
only in come cells, while FIG. 2D shows that recoverin was
expressed in some positive cells. FIG. 2F shows that Sox2 was
expressed in most of the cultured cells.
Cell Proliferation and Growth Curve
[0092] The rate of hRPC proliferation in 20% oxygen was constant
during the first 4-5 passages (depending on the cell source),
reaching a plateau at passages 5-6 (about 20 days in culture). This
data is shown in FIG. 1 which graphs the growth kinetics of human
retinal progenitor cells as the number of cell divisions vs. time
(days) for 3% oxygen and 20% oxygen. After "exiting" the plateau,
which took about 10 days, the growth rate in 20% oxygen decreased
compared to earlier passages. A "negative gain" in CyQuant Assay on
passages 8-9 in 20% oxygen can be explained by the increase in the
apoptosis level. In 3% oxygen, a slight decrease in the
proliferation rate after the first 5 passages (12 days in culture)
was observed, but the population double time remains at a level
lower than 1.5 days up to and including passage 16 (the point at
which the experiment ended).
[0093] FIG. 3 is a graph showing the growth kinetics of human
progenitor cells. The estimated size of the hRPC population,
expanded in both low and regular oxygen conditions, is established
for each of the 8 different sources. The points on the graph
represent the passaging procedure when cells were counted (at least
twice for each source/passage).
Proliferative Markers
[0094] The observed increase in hRPC proliferation in 3% oxygen
conditions correlates with the increase in expression of markers
Ki67 and CyclinD1. An increase in p53 expression at all passages in
normoxia conditions compared to hypoxia conditions was also
observed. See FIGS. 4A-4D which depict photomicrographs and bar
graphs for proliferative marker Ki67 and cell cycling marker
CyclinD1 expression in low and regular oxygen conditions for
passages 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 16 (only for low oxygen). FIG. 4E is a
bar graph showing that cycle checkpoint protein p53 expression is
higher in regular oxygen conditions.
Apoptosis
[0095] The increase in p53 expression together with growth kinetics
on passages 8 and 9 is linked with the higher apoptosis levels in
20% oxygen conditions as determined by the TUNEL assay. It does not
exceed the 2% level in the hypoxia group at passages 1-7, and
increased to 5% at passage 8. In the normoxia group, it increased
from the 2% level on passage 1 to 6% on passages 5, 6, and 7, and
on passage 8 it reached 20%. The variability between cell sources
in the number of TUNEL-positive cells was also higher in the
normoxia group. The "pro-survival" effect of hypoxia was also
supported by the observation that after trypsinization and
freeze/thawing hRPCs in 3% oxygen conditions have higher viability
(less floating cells). The same low oxygen anti-apoptotic
protection was shown in vitro and in vivo in different cell types
via activation of pro-survival pathways.
[0096] FIGS. 5A and 5B are a photomicrograph and a bar graph
showing the ratio of apoptotic cells in low and regular oxygen
culture conditions on passages 1-9. Although not wishing to be
bound to any specific explanation or theory of operability, a
possible mechanism for this result is the upregulation of p39
and/or p44/42 in 3% oxygen.
Telomerase Expression and Activity
[0097] It has been shown that hRPCs express hTERT both in 3% and
20% conditions on all passages. The TRAPEZE assay has shown that
telomerase activity is decreased with passage in both conditions
but is higher in 3% vs. 20% oxygen conditions, and is preserved
until passage 16 in low oxygen, possibly allowing retinal
progenitors to divide without telomers shortening. See FIG. 6 which
is a bar graph of the relative telomerase activity in hRPCs
obtained for passages 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 16 for low and regular
oxygen conditions. The telomerase products were approximately 50
bp.
Multipotency Marker
[0098] ICC and Western Blot have shown that culturing in 3% oxygen
tension stabilizes HIF2 alpha, increases HIF1 alpha stabilization,
and upregulates cMyc, KLF4, Oct4 and Sox2. It has also been shown
that the expression of specific eye field development transcription
factors (Pax6, Sox2, Otx2) and Nestin is maintained up to passage
16 in 3% oxygen conditions and up to passage 10 in 20% oxygen
conditions, which suggests that they are not key factors in hRPC
expansion in both conditions. Sox 2 was upregulated in 3% oxygen
conditions, possible due to HIF2a activity. The same upregulation
was observed for cytoplasmatic Oct4 (52 kDa, expressed
perinuclearily), also due to HIF2a stabilization. Despite the fact
that Pax6 and Otx2 expression was observed at all passages in
maintenance conditions, the pattern changed during differentiation.
Instead of equal expression (the same intensity) in all nuclei, a
dominant subpopulation with upregulated Pax6 appeared. Otx2
expression shifted from whole cell (nucleus and cytoplasm) to
nucleus only, but it was still expressed in most cells. Sox2
expression decreased during differentiation. SSEA4 upregulation in
low oxygen conditions, shown for MIAMI and hESC cells, holds for
hRPC cells only after passage 3. During isolation and on passage 1,
the number of SSEA4 expressing cells was lower in 3% oxygen
conditions, but increased on passage 3 and later passages.
Differentiation
[0099] The main characteristics of hRPC cells are functional--the
ability to differentiate into specialized retinal cells. The
ability of hRPC's (passage 3) to generate about 35% recoverin
expressing cells, 7% blue-opsin expressing cells, and 15% of
rhodopsin expressing cells after expansion in 20% oxygen tension
and 7 days in differentiating conditions (media supplemented with
5% FBS without mitogens) was previously observed. Under the same
conditions, recoverin, CRX or opsin-positive cells were not
detected after differentiation of passage 6 hRPCs. During cell
expansion under 3% oxygen conditions, it has been shown that
culturing the cells under low oxygen tension in maintenance
conditions does not drive spontaneous differentiation of human
retinal progenitor cells into rods, cones, ganglion, bipolar or
glial cells (less than 0.5% in maintenance conditions according to
ICC staining). See FIGS. 7 and 8.
[0100] Summarizing the results of the above experiments, hRPCs
expanded in 3% oxygen are able to generate specialized retinal
cells (photoreceptors), including rods and cones. On passage 1
compared to other passages (5, 10, 16), higher amounts of
specialized cells were observed after differentiation. hRCPs on
passage 1 tended to form more specialized cells on day 2 as
compared to other passages, which suggests that the cell culture on
early passage is rich with "easy differentiating precursors" that
are lost during expansion. The ability of hRPCs to generate
specialized retinal cells is greatly decreased on other passages as
compared to passage 1, but is relatively constant between later
passages. This suggests that progenitors cultured in 3% oxygen
under maintenance conditions do not lose the ability to generate
photoreceptors, ganglion or bipolar cells. On later passages, less
photoreceptors were generated, but more bipolar and glial cells.
During differentiation, the downregulation of Pax6 (according to
ICC staining, cells continue to express this marker, but at lower
levels) and Sox2 (the staining pattern switches from nuclear to
perinuclear and cytoplasmic) was observed.
[0101] The human retinal progenitor cells of the invention may be
used for studying the development of the retina and eye, as well as
factors affecting such development, whether beneficially or
adversely. These hRPCs can also be used for clinical trials by
transplantation into a suffering from dysfunctions of the eye. They
may be used advantageously to repopulate or to rescue a dystrophic
ocular tissue, particularly a dysfunctional retina. Retinal
dysfunction encompasses any lack or loss of normal retinal
function, whether due to disease, mechanical or chemical injury, or
a degenerative or pathological process involving the recipient's
retina. The hRPCs may be injected or otherwise placed in a retinal
site, the subretinal space, vitreal cavity, or the optic nerve,
according to techniques known in the art. This includes the use of
biodegradable substrates as a carrier for the hRPCs.
[0102] Advantageously, the hRPCs of the invention may be used to
compensate for a lack or diminution of photoreceptor cell function.
Examples of retinal dysfunction that can be treated by the retinal
stem cell populations and methods of the invention include but are
not limited to: photoreceptor degeneration (as occurs in, e.g.,
retinitis pigmentosa, cone dystrophies, cone-rod and/or rod-cone
dystrophies, and macular degeneration); retina detachment and
retinal trauma; photic lesions caused by laser or sunlight; a
macular hole; a macular edema; night blindness and color blindness;
ischemic retinopathy as caused by diabetes or vascular occlusion;
retinopathy due to prematurity/premature birth; infectious
conditions, such as, e.g., CMV retinitis and toxoplasmosis;
inflammatory conditions, such as the uveitidies; tumors, such as
retinoblastoma and ocular melanoma; and for the replacement of
inner retinal neurons, which are affected in ocular neuropathies
including glaucoma, traumatic optic neuropathy, and radiation optic
neuropathy and retinopathy.
[0103] The treatments described herein can be used as stand alone
therapies, or in conjunction with other therapeutic treatments.
Such treatments can include the administration of a substance that
stimulates differentiation of the neuroretina-derived stem cells
into photoreceptors cells or other retinal cell types (e.g.,
bipolar cells, ganglion cells, horizontal cells, amacrine cells,
Mueller cells).
[0104] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that, although
specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein
for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made
without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention as set
forth in the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent
applications referenced herein are incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
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