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Murthy S, Nongthomba U. Role of the BCL11A/B Homologue Chronophage (Cph) in Locomotor Behaviour of Drosophila melanogaster. Neuroscience 2024; 551:1-16. [PMID: 38763224 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Functioning of the nervous system requires proper formation and specification of neurons as well as accurate connectivity and signalling between them. Locomotor behaviour depends upon these events that occur during neural development, and any aberration in them could result in motor disorders. Transcription factors are believed to be master regulators that control these processes, but very few linked to behaviour have been identified so far. The Drosophila homologue of BCL11A (CTIP1) and BCL11B (CTIP2), Chronophage (Cph), was recently shown to be involved in temporal patterning of neural stem cells but its role in post-mitotic neurons is not known. We show that knockdown of Cph in neurons during development results in animals with locomotor defects at both larval and adult stages. The defects are more severe in adults, with inability to stand, uncoordinated behaviour and complete loss of ability to walk, climb, or fly. These defects are similar to the motor difficulties observed in some patients with mutations in BCL11A and BCL11B. Electrophysiological recordings showed reduced evoked activity and irregular neuronal firing. All Cph-expressing neurons in the ventral nerve cord are glutamatergic. Our results imply that Cph modulates primary locomotor activity through configuration of glutamatergic neurons. Thus, this study ascribes a hitherto unknown role to Cph in locomotor behaviour of Drosophila melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Smrithi Murthy
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560 012, India.
| | - Upendra Nongthomba
- Department of Developmental Biology and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560 012, India.
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Seigfried FA, Britsch S. The Role of Bcl11 Transcription Factors in Neurodevelopmental Disorders. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:126. [PMID: 38392344 PMCID: PMC10886639 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) comprise a diverse group of diseases, including developmental delay, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disability (ID), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). NDDs are caused by aberrant brain development due to genetic and environmental factors. To establish specific and curative therapeutic approaches, it is indispensable to gain precise mechanistic insight into the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of NDDs. Mutations of BCL11A and BCL11B, two closely related, ultra-conserved zinc-finger transcription factors, were recently reported to be associated with NDDs, including developmental delay, ASD, and ID, as well as morphogenic defects such as cerebellar hypoplasia. In mice, Bcl11 transcription factors are well known to orchestrate various cellular processes during brain development, for example, neural progenitor cell proliferation, neuronal migration, and the differentiation as well as integration of neurons into functional circuits. Developmental defects observed in both, mice and humans display striking similarities, suggesting Bcl11 knockout mice provide excellent models for analyzing human disease. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the cellular and molecular functions of Bcl11a and b and links experimental research to the corresponding NDDs observed in humans. Moreover, it outlines trajectories for future translational research that may help to better understand the molecular basis of Bcl11-dependent NDDs as well as to conceive disease-specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Anna Seigfried
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Stefan Britsch
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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3
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Morgan AT, Amor DJ, St John MD, Scheffer IE, Hildebrand MS. Genetic architecture of childhood speech disorder: a review. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02409-8. [PMID: 38366112 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02409-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Severe speech disorders lead to poor literacy, reduced academic attainment and negative psychosocial outcomes. As early as the 1950s, the familial nature of speech disorders was recognized, implying a genetic basis; but the molecular genetic basis remained unknown. In 2001, investigation of a large three generational family with severe speech disorder, known as childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), revealed the first causative gene; FOXP2. A long hiatus then followed for CAS candidate genes, but in the past three years, genetic analysis of cohorts ascertained for CAS have revealed over 30 causative genes. A total of 36 pathogenic variants have been identified from 122 cases across 3 cohorts in this nascent field. All genes identified have been in coding regions to date, with no apparent benefit at this stage for WGS over WES in identifying monogenic conditions associated with CAS. Hence current findings suggest a remarkable one in three children have a genetic variant that explains their CAS, with significant genetic heterogeneity emerging. Around half of the candidate genes identified are currently supported by medium (6 genes) to strong (9 genes) evidence supporting the association between the gene and CAS. Despite genetic heterogeneity; many implicated proteins functionally converge on pathways involved in chromatin modification or transcriptional regulation, opening the door to precision diagnosis and therapies. Most of the new candidate genes for CAS are associated with previously described neurodevelopmental conditions that include intellectual disability, autism and epilepsy; broadening the phenotypic spectrum to a distinctly milder presentation defined by primary speech disorder in the setting of normal intellect. Insights into the genetic bases of CAS, a severe, rare speech disorder, are yet to translate to understanding the heritability of more common, typically milder forms of speech or language impairment such as stuttering or phonological disorder. These disorders likely follow complex inheritance with polygenic contributions in many cases, rather than the monogenic patterns that underly one-third of patients with CAS. Clinical genetic testing for should now be implemented for individuals with CAS, given its high diagnostic rate, which parallels many other neurodevelopmental disorders where this testing is already standard of care. The shared mechanisms implicated by gene discovery for CAS highlight potential new targets for future precision therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela T Morgan
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Speech Pathology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - David J Amor
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Miya D St John
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael S Hildebrand
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Wang X, Zhang Z, Zuo W, Wang D, Yang F, Liu Q, Xiao Y. Case Report: Identification of microduplication in the chromosomal 2p16.1p15 region in an infant suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1219480. [PMID: 37937284 PMCID: PMC10626460 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1219480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
This study reports the first case of a patient with chromosomal 2p16.1p15 microduplication syndrome complicated by pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). A female infant was admitted to the hospital suffering from dyskinesia and developmental delay, and conventional echocardiography revealed an atrial septal defect (ASD), which was not taken seriously or treated at that time. Two years later, preoperative right heart catheterization for ASD closure revealed a mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) of 45 mmHg. The mPAP was reduced, and the condition was stabilized after drug therapy. A genomic copy number duplication (3×) of at least 2.58 Mb in the 2p16.1p15 region on the paternal chromosome was revealed. Multiple Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) genes are involved in this genomic region, such as BCL11A, EHBP1, FAM161A, PEX13, and REL. EHBP1 promotes a molecular phenotypic transformation of pulmonary vascular endothelial cells and is thought to be involved in the rapidly developing PAH of this infant. Collectively, our findings contribute to the knowledge of the genes involved and the clinical manifestations of the 2p16.1p15 microduplication syndrome. Moreover, clinicians should be alert to the possibility of PAH and take early drug intervention when facing patients with 2p16.1p15 microduplications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Zeying Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wanyun Zuo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yunbin Xiao
- Department of Cardiology, Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha, China
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Cao H, Baranova A, Song Y, Chen JH, Zhang F. Causal associations and genetic overlap between COVID-19 and intelligence. QJM 2023; 116:766-773. [PMID: 37286376 PMCID: PMC10559337 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE COVID-19 might cause neuroinflammation in the brain, which could decrease neurocognitive function. We aimed to evaluate the causal associations and genetic overlap between COVID-19 and intelligence. METHODS We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to assess potential associations between three COVID-19 outcomes and intelligence (N = 269 867). The COVID phenotypes included severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (N = 2 501 486), hospitalized COVID-19 (N = 1 965 329) and critical COVID-19 (N = 743 167). Genome-wide risk genes were compared between the genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets on hospitalized COVID-19 and intelligence. In addition, functional pathways were constructed to explore molecular connections between COVID-19 and intelligence. RESULTS The MR analyses indicated that genetic liabilities to SARS-CoV-2 infection (odds ratio [OR]: 0.965, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.939-0.993) and critical COVID-19 (OR: 0.989, 95% CI: 0.979-0.999) confer causal effects on intelligence. There was suggestive evidence supporting the causal effect of hospitalized COVID-19 on intelligence (OR: 0.988, 95% CI: 0.972-1.003). Hospitalized COVID-19 and intelligence share 10 risk genes within 2 genomic loci, including MAPT and WNT3. Enrichment analysis showed that these genes are functionally connected within distinct subnetworks of 30 phenotypes linked to cognitive decline. The functional pathway revealed that COVID-19-driven pathological changes within the brain and multiple peripheral systems may lead to cognitive impairment. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that COVID-19 may exert a detrimental effect on intelligence. The tau protein and Wnt signaling may mediate the influence of COVID-19 on intelligence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbao Cao
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
| | - Ancha Baranova
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 20110, USA
- Research Centre for Medical Genetics, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Yuqing Song
- Institute of Mental Health, Peking University Sixth Hospital
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jian-Huan Chen
- Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029,China
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
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Peter B, Bruce L, Finestack L, Dinu V, Wilson M, Klein-Seetharaman J, Lewis CR, Braden BB, Tang YY, Scherer N, VanDam M, Potter N. Precision Medicine as a New Frontier in Speech-Language Pathology: How Applying Insights From Behavior Genomics Can Improve Outcomes in Communication Disorders. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2023; 32:1397-1412. [PMID: 37146603 PMCID: PMC10484627 DOI: 10.1044/2023_ajslp-22-00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Precision medicine is an emerging intervention paradigm that leverages knowledge of risk factors such as genotypes, lifestyle, and environment toward proactive and personalized interventions. Regarding genetic risk factors, examples of interventions informed by the field of medical genomics are pharmacological interventions tailored to an individual's genotype and anticipatory guidance for children whose hearing impairment is predicted to be progressive. Here, we show how principles of precision medicine and insights from behavior genomics have relevance for novel management strategies of behaviorally expressed disorders, especially disorders of spoken language. METHOD This tutorial presents an overview of precision medicine, medical genomics, and behavior genomics; case examples of improved outcomes; and strategic goals toward enhancing clinical practice. RESULTS Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) see individuals with various communication disorders due to genetic variants. Ways of using insights from behavior genomics and implementing principles of precision medicine include recognizing early signs of undiagnosed genetic disorders in an individual's communication patterns, making appropriate referrals to genetics professionals, and incorporating genetic findings into management plans. Patients benefit from a genetics diagnosis by gaining a deeper and more prognostic understanding of their condition, obtaining more precisely targeted interventions, and learning about their recurrence risks. CONCLUSIONS SLPs can achieve improved outcomes by expanding their purview to include genetics. To drive this new interdisciplinary framework forward, goals should include systematic training in clinical genetics for SLPs, enhanced understanding of genotype-phenotype associations, leveraging insights from animal models, optimizing interprofessional team efforts, and developing novel proactive and personalized interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Peter
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Laurel Bruce
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Lizbeth Finestack
- Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis
| | - Valentin Dinu
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Melissa Wilson
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | | | - Candace R. Lewis
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - B. Blair Braden
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Yi-Yuan Tang
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Nancy Scherer
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Mark VanDam
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane
| | - Nancy Potter
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane
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7
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Singh R. A Gene-Based Algorithm for Identifying Factors That May Affect a Speaker's Voice. ENTROPY (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 25:897. [PMID: 37372241 DOI: 10.3390/e25060897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decades, many machine-learning- and artificial-intelligence-based technologies have been created to deduce biometric or bio-relevant parameters of speakers from their voice. These voice profiling technologies have targeted a wide range of parameters, from diseases to environmental factors, based largely on the fact that they are known to influence voice. Recently, some have also explored the prediction of parameters whose influence on voice is not easily observable through data-opportunistic biomarker discovery techniques. However, given the enormous range of factors that can possibly influence voice, more informed methods for selecting those that may be potentially deducible from voice are needed. To this end, this paper proposes a simple path-finding algorithm that attempts to find links between vocal characteristics and perturbing factors using cytogenetic and genomic data. The links represent reasonable selection criteria for use by computational by profiling technologies only, and are not intended to establish any unknown biological facts. The proposed algorithm is validated using a simple example from medical literature-that of the clinically observed effects of specific chromosomal microdeletion syndromes on the vocal characteristics of affected people. In this example, the algorithm attempts to link the genes involved in these syndromes to a single example gene (FOXP2) that is known to play a broad role in voice production. We show that in cases where strong links are exposed, vocal characteristics of the patients are indeed reported to be correspondingly affected. Validation experiments and subsequent analyses confirm that the methodology could be potentially useful in predicting the existence of vocal signatures in naïve cases where their existence has not been otherwise observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Singh
- Center for Voice Intelligence and Security, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Miceli M, Failla P, Saccuzzo L, Galesi O, Amata S, Romano C, Bonaglia MC, Fichera M. Trait - driven analysis of the 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome suggests a complex pattern of interactions between candidate genes. Genes Genomics 2023; 45:491-505. [PMID: 36807877 PMCID: PMC10027778 DOI: 10.1007/s13258-023-01369-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with the 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome share a complex phenotype including neurodevelopmental delay, brain malformations, microcephaly, and autistic behavior. The analysis of the shortest region of overlap (SRO) between deletions in ~ 40 patients has led to the identification of two critical regions and four strongly candidate genes (BCL11A, REL, USP34 and XPO1). However, the delineation of their role in the occurrence of specific traits is hampered by their incomplete penetrance. OBJECTIVE To better delineate the role of hemizygosity of specific regions in selected traits by leveraging information both from penetrant and non - penetrant deletions. METHODS Deletions in patients that do not present a specific trait cannot contribute to delineate the SROs. We recently developed a probabilistic model that, by considering also the non - penetrant deletions, allows a more reliable assignment of peculiar traits to specific genomic segments. We apply this method adding two new patients to the published cases. RESULTS Our results delineate an intricate pattern of genotype - phenotype correlation where BCL11A emerges as the main gene for autistic behavior while USP34 and/or XPO1 haploinsufficiency are mainly associated with microcephaly, hearing loss and IUGR. BCL11A, USP34 and XPO1 genes are broadly related with brain malformations albeit with distinct patterns of brain damage. CONCLUSIONS The observed penetrance of deletions encompassing different SROs and that predicted when considering each single SRO as acting independently, may reflect a more complex model than the additive one. Our approach may improve the genotype/phenotype correlation and may help to identify specific pathogenic mechanisms in contiguous gene syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Miceli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Saccuzzo
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | | | - Corrado Romano
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Maria Clara Bonaglia
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Scientific Institute, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Marco Fichera
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Medical Genetics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
- Research Unit of Rare Diseases and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy.
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Bruce L, Peter B. Three children with different de novo BCL11A variants and diverse developmental phenotypes, but shared global motor discoordination and apraxic speech: Evidence for a functional gene network influencing the developing cerebellum and motor and auditory cortices. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:3401-3415. [PMID: 35856171 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BCL11A is implicated in BCL11A-Related Intellectual Development Disorder (BCL11A-IDD). Previously reported cases had various types of BCL11A variants (copy-number variations [CNVs], singlenucleotide variants [SNVs]). Phenotypes included global, cognitive, and motor delays, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), craniofacial dysmorphology, and speech and language delays described generally, with only two reports specifying childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Here, we present three additional children with CAS and de novo BCL11A variants, a p.Ala182Thr nonconservative missense and a p.GLu611.Ter nonsense variant, both in exon 4, and a 106 kb deletion harboring exons 1 and 2. All three children have fine and gross motor discoordination, feeding difficulties, and visual motor disorders. Intellectual and learning disabilities and disordered language skills were seen only in the child with the missense variant and the child with the deletion. These findings align with, and expand, previous findings in that BCL11A variants have significant and highly penetrant apraxic effects across motor systems, consistent with cerebellar involvement. The deletion of exons 1 and 2 is the smallest BCL11A CNV with the full phenotypic expression reported to date. The present results support previous findings in that BCL11A-IDD can result from BCL11A variants regardless of type (deletion, SNVs). A gene expression study shows that BCL11 is expressed highly in the early developing cerebellum and primary motor and auditory cortices. Significant co-expression rates in these regions with genes previously implicated in disorders of spoken language and in ASD support the phenotypic overlaps in children with BCL11A-IDD, CAS, and ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Bruce
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Beate Peter
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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Chang X, Zhao W, Kang J, Xiang S, Xie C, Corona-Hernández H, Palaniyappan L, Feng J. Language abnormalities in schizophrenia: binding core symptoms through contemporary empirical evidence. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 8:95. [PMID: 36371445 PMCID: PMC9653408 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-022-00308-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Both the ability to speak and to infer complex linguistic messages from sounds have been claimed as uniquely human phenomena. In schizophrenia, formal thought disorder (FTD) and auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) are manifestations respectively relating to concrete disruptions of those abilities. From an evolutionary perspective, Crow (1997) proposed that "schizophrenia is the price that Homo sapiens pays for the faculty of language". Epidemiological and experimental evidence points to an overlap between FTD and AVHs, yet a thorough investigation examining their shared neural mechanism in schizophrenia is lacking. In this review, we synthesize observations from three key domains. First, neuroanatomical evidence indicates substantial shared abnormalities in language-processing regions between FTD and AVHs, even in the early phases of schizophrenia. Second, neurochemical studies point to a glutamate-related dysfunction in these language-processing brain regions, contributing to verbal production deficits. Third, genetic findings further show how genes that overlap between schizophrenia and language disorders influence neurodevelopment and neurotransmission. We argue that these observations converge into the possibility that a glutamatergic dysfunction in language-processing brain regions might be a shared neural basis of both FTD and AVHs. Investigations of language pathology in schizophrenia could facilitate the development of diagnostic tools and treatments, so we call for multilevel confirmatory analyses focused on modulations of the language network as a therapeutic goal in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chang
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- MOE-LCSM, School of Mathematics and Statistics, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, PR China
| | - Jujiao Kang
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Center for Mathematical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shitong Xiang
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Xie
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China
| | - Hugo Corona-Hernández
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lena Palaniyappan
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jianfeng Feng
- Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Shanghai, China.
- MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Center for Mathematical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Computer Science, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
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Peter B, Davis J, Finestack L, Stoel-Gammon C, VanDam M, Bruce L, Kim Y, Eng L, Cotter S, Landis E, Beames S, Scherer N, Knerr I, Williams D, Schrock C, Potter N. Translating principles of precision medicine into speech-language pathology: Clinical trial of a proactive speech and language intervention for infants with classic galactosemia. HGG ADVANCES 2022; 3:100119. [PMID: 35677809 PMCID: PMC9168611 DOI: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2022.100119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Precision medicine is an emerging approach to managing disease by taking into consideration an individual’s genetic and environmental profile toward two avenues to improved outcomes: prevention and personalized treatments. This framework is largely geared to conditions conventionally falling into the field of medical genetics. Here, we show that the same avenues to improving outcomes can be applied to conditions in the field of behavior genomics, specifically disorders of spoken language. Babble Boot Camp (BBC) is the first comprehensive and personalized program designed to proactively mitigate speech and language disorders in infants at predictable risk by fostering precursor and early communication skills via parent training. The intervention begins at child age 2 to 5 months and ends at age 24 months, with follow-up testing at 30, 42, and 54 months. To date, 44 children with a newborn diagnosis of classic galactosemia (CG) have participated in the clinical trial of BBC. CG is an inborn error of metabolism of genetic etiology that predisposes up to 85% of children to severe speech and language disorders. Of 13 children with CG who completed the intervention and all or part of the follow-up testing, only one had disordered speech and none had disordered language skills. For the treated children who completed more than one assessment, typical speech and language skills were maintained over time. This shows that knowledge of genetic risk at birth can be leveraged toward proactive and personalized management of a disorder that manifests behaviorally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Peter
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Jennifer Davis
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Lizbeth Finestack
- Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Mark VanDam
- Speech and Hearing Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Laurel Bruce
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Yookyung Kim
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Linda Eng
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Sarah Cotter
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Emily Landis
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Sam Beames
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Nancy Scherer
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Ina Knerr
- National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Disorders, Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Delaney Williams
- Speech and Hearing Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Claire Schrock
- Speech and Hearing Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Nancy Potter
- Speech and Hearing Sciences, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
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12
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Mountford HS, Braden R, Newbury DF, Morgan AT. The Genetic and Molecular Basis of Developmental Language Disorder: A Review. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9050586. [PMID: 35626763 PMCID: PMC9139417 DOI: 10.3390/children9050586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Language disorders are highly heritable and are influenced by complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Despite more than twenty years of research, we still lack critical understanding of the biological underpinnings of language. This review provides an overview of the genetic landscape of developmental language disorders (DLD), with an emphasis on the importance of defining the specific features (the phenotype) of DLD to inform gene discovery. We review the specific phenotype of DLD in the genetic literature, and the influence of historic variation in diagnostic inclusion criteria on researchers' ability to compare and replicate genotype-phenotype studies. This review provides an overview of the recently identified gene pathways in populations with DLD and explores current state-of-the-art approaches to genetic analysis based on the hypothesised architecture of DLD. We will show how recent global efforts to unify diagnostic criteria have vastly increased sample size and allow for large multi-cohort metanalyses, leading the identification of a growing number of contributory loci. We emphasise the important role of estimating the genetic architecture of DLD to decipher underlying genetic associations. Finally, we explore the potential for epigenetics and environmental interactions to further unravel the biological basis of language disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley S. Mountford
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (H.S.M.); (D.F.N.)
| | - Ruth Braden
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia;
| | - Dianne F. Newbury
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (H.S.M.); (D.F.N.)
| | - Angela T. Morgan
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne 3052, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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13
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Peter B, Davis J, Cotter S, Belter A, Williams E, Stumpf M, Bruce L, Eng L, Kim Y, Finestack L, Stoel-Gammon C, Williams D, Scherer N, VanDam M, Potter N. Toward Preventing Speech and Language Disorders of Known Genetic Origin: First Post-Intervention Results of Babble Boot Camp in Children With Classic Galactosemia. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2021; 30:2616-2634. [PMID: 34665663 PMCID: PMC9135004 DOI: 10.1044/2021_ajslp-21-00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Babble Boot Camp (BBC) is a package of proactive activities and routines designed to prevent speech and language disorders in infants at predictable risk. It is implemented via parent training and currently undergoing clinical trial in children with a newborn diagnosis of classic galactosemia (CG), a metabolic disease with high risk of speech and language disorders. The purpose of this study is to provide updates to a previous pilot study and to present the first set of post-intervention results. Method The intervention and data collection occurred during child ages < 6-24 months, with follow-up assessments of speech and language at ages 2.5 and 3.5 years. Treatment targets included earliest vocalization rates, babble complexity, speech production accuracy, and vocabulary and syntactic growth. The oldest 15 children with CG (including three untreated controls) completed the first set of follow-up assessments. Aggregate data up to 10 months were available for 17 treated children with CG, six untreated children with CG, and six typical controls. Results At ages 7-9 months, babbling complexity, as measured with mean babbling level, was higher in the treated children with CG than in the untreated children with CG and the typical controls. Prior to 24 months of age, the treated children with CG had greater expressive but not receptive vocabulary sizes than an untreated control. Follow-up testing showed typical language scores for all 12 treated children with CG and typical articulation scores for 11 of these, whereas one of three untreated children with CG had low articulation and expressive language scores. Conclusions The BBC appears to be a viable intervention to support the speech and expressive language development of children with GC. Future studies will evaluate the relative contributions of the earliest and later BBC components to outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Peter
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Saint Louis University, MO
| | - Jennifer Davis
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Sarah Cotter
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Alicia Belter
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Emma Williams
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Melissa Stumpf
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Laurel Bruce
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Linda Eng
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Yookyung Kim
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Lizbeth Finestack
- Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis
| | - Carol Stoel-Gammon
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle
| | - Delaney Williams
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane
| | - Nancy Scherer
- Speech and Hearing Science, College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Mark VanDam
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane
| | - Nancy Potter
- Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane
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14
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Whole-genome sequencing identifies functional noncoding variation in SEMA3C that cosegregates with dyslexia in a multigenerational family. Hum Genet 2021; 140:1183-1200. [PMID: 34076780 PMCID: PMC8263547 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02289-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Dyslexia is a common heritable developmental disorder involving impaired reading abilities. Its genetic underpinnings are thought to be complex and heterogeneous, involving common and rare genetic variation. Multigenerational families segregating apparent monogenic forms of language-related disorders can provide useful entrypoints into biological pathways. In the present study, we performed a genome-wide linkage scan in a three-generational family in which dyslexia affects 14 of its 30 members and seems to be transmitted with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. We identified a locus on chromosome 7q21.11 which cosegregated with dyslexia status, with the exception of two cases of phenocopy (LOD = 2.83). Whole-genome sequencing of key individuals enabled the assessment of coding and noncoding variation in the family. Two rare single-nucleotide variants (rs144517871 and rs143835534) within the first intron of the SEMA3C gene cosegregated with the 7q21.11 risk haplotype. In silico characterization of these two variants predicted effects on gene regulation, which we functionally validated for rs144517871 in human cell lines using luciferase reporter assays. SEMA3C encodes a secreted protein that acts as a guidance cue in several processes, including cortical neuronal migration and cellular polarization. We hypothesize that these intronic variants could have a cis-regulatory effect on SEMA3C expression, making a contribution to dyslexia susceptibility in this family.
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15
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Wessels MW, Cnossen MH, van Dijk TB, Gillemans N, Schmidt KLJ, van Lom K, Vinjamur DS, Coyne S, Kurita R, Nakamura Y, de Man SA, Pfundt R, Azmani Z, Brouwer RWW, Bauer DE, van den Hout MCGN, van IJcken WFJ, Philipsen S. Molecular analysis of the erythroid phenotype of a patient with BCL11A haploinsufficiency. Blood Adv 2021; 5:2339-2349. [PMID: 33938942 PMCID: PMC8114548 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020003753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The BCL11A gene encodes a transcriptional repressor with essential functions in multiple tissues during human development. Haploinsufficiency for BCL11A causes Dias-Logan syndrome (OMIM 617101), an intellectual developmental disorder with hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH). Due to the severe phenotype, disease-causing variants in BCL11A occur de novo. We describe a patient with a de novo heterozygous variant, c.1453G>T, in the BCL11A gene, resulting in truncation of the BCL11A-XL protein (p.Glu485X). The truncated protein lacks the 3 C-terminal DNA-binding zinc fingers and the nuclear localization signal, rendering it inactive. The patient displayed high fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels (12.1-18.7% of total hemoglobin), in contrast to the parents who had HbF levels of 0.3%. We used cultures of patient-derived erythroid progenitors to determine changes in gene expression and chromatin accessibility. In addition, we investigated DNA methylation of the promoters of the γ-globin genes HBG1 and HBG2. HUDEP1 and HUDEP2 cells were used as models for fetal and adult human erythropoiesis, respectively. Similar to HUDEP1 cells, the patient's cells displayed Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin (ATAC) peaks at the HBG1/2 promoters and significant expression of HBG1/2 genes. In contrast, HBG1/2 promoter methylation and genome-wide gene expression profiling were consistent with normal adult erythropoiesis. We conclude that HPFH is the major erythroid phenotype of constitutive BCL11A haploinsufficiency. Given the essential functions of BCL11A in other hematopoietic lineages and the neuronal system, erythroid-specific targeting of the BCL11A gene has been proposed for reactivation of γ-globin expression in β-hemoglobinopathy patients. Our data strongly support this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marjon H Cnossen
- Department of Pediatric Hematology
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
| | - Thamar B van Dijk
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - Nynke Gillemans
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - K L Juliëtte Schmidt
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
| | - Kirsten van Lom
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Divya S Vinjamur
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Steven Coyne
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ryo Kurita
- Department of Research and Development, Central Blood Institute, Blood Service Headquarters, Japanese Red Cross Society, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukio Nakamura
- Cell Engineering Division, RIKEN, BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Stella A de Man
- Department of Pediatrics, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Rolph Pfundt
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; and
| | - Zakia Azmani
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rutger W W Brouwer
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daniel E Bauer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Boston, MA
- Broad Institute, Boston, MA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | | | - Wilfred F J van IJcken
- Department of Cell Biology, and
- Center for Biomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak Philipsen
- Academic Center for Hemoglobinopathies and Rare Anemias
- Department of Cell Biology, and
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16
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BCL11A: a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target in human diseases. Biosci Rep 2020; 39:220893. [PMID: 31654056 PMCID: PMC6851505 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20190604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor B-cell lymphoma/leukemia 11A (BCL11A) gene encodes a zinc-finger protein that is predominantly expressed in brain and hematopoietic tissue. BCL11A functions mainly as a transcriptional repressor that is crucial in brain, hematopoietic system development, as well as fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switching. The expression of this gene is regulated by microRNAs, transcription factors and genetic variations. A number of studies have recently shown that BCL11A is involved in β-hemoglobinopathies, hematological malignancies, malignant solid tumors, 2p15-p16.1 microdeletion syndrome, and Type II diabetes. It has been suggested that BCL11A may be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for some diseases. In this review, we summarize the current research state of BCL11A, including its biochemistry, expression, regulation, function, and its possible clinical application in human diseases.
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17
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den Hoed J, Fisher SE. Genetic pathways involved in human speech disorders. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2020; 65:103-111. [PMID: 32622339 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2020.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rare genetic variants that disrupt speech development provide entry points for deciphering the neurobiological foundations of key human capacities. The value of this approach is illustrated by FOXP2, a transcription factor gene that was implicated in speech apraxia, and subsequently investigated using human cell-based systems and animal models. Advances in next-generation sequencing, coupled to de novo paradigms, facilitated discovery of etiological variants in additional genes in speech disorder cohorts. As for other neurodevelopmental syndromes, gene-driven studies show blurring of boundaries between diagnostic categories, with some risk genes shared across speech disorders, intellectual disability and autism. Convergent evidence hints at involvement of regulatory genes co-expressed in early human brain development, suggesting that etiological pathways could be amenable for investigation in emerging neural models such as cerebral organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joery den Hoed
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands; International Max Planck Research School for Language Sciences, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Simon E Fisher
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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18
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Korenke GC, Schulte B, Biskup S, Neidhardt J, Owczarek-Lipska M. A Novel de novo Frameshift Mutation in the BCL11A Gene in a Patient with Intellectual Disability Syndrome and Epilepsy. Mol Syndromol 2020; 11:135-140. [PMID: 32903878 DOI: 10.1159/000508566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intellectual disability syndrome (IDS) associated with a hereditary persistence of fetal haemoglobin (HbF), also known as Dias-Logan syndrome, is commonly characterised by psychomotor developmental delay, intelectual disability, language delay, strabismus, thin upper lip, abnormalities of external ears, microcephaly, downslanting palpebral fissures. Sporadically, autism spectrum disorders and blue sclerae in infancy have been reported in IDS. Rarely, IDS-affected patients present with epilepsy and/or epileptic syndromes. It has been shown that a haploinsufficiency of the B cell leukaemia/lymphoma 11A gene (BCL11A) is responsible for IDS. Herein, we identified a novel de novo frameshift deletion (c.271delG; p.E91Afs*2) in the BCL11A gene in a boy affected with IDS. Interestingly, this heterozygous loss-of-function BCL11A mutation was also associated with a generalised idiopathic epilepsy and severe language delay observed in the patient. Moreover, our study showed that the combination of molecular genetic analyses with the monitoring of HbF was essential to make the final diagnosis of Dias-Logan syndrome. Because our patient suffered from well-controlled epilepsy, we propose to include the BCL11A gene in routinely used molecular genetic epilepsy-related gene panels. Additionally, many of the clinical features of IDS overlap with symptoms observed in patients with suspected alcohol spectrum disorders. Therefore, we also suggest monitoring HbF levels in patients with these syndromes to further facilitate clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Christoph Korenke
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children's Hospital, Klinikum Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Björn Schulte
- Praxis für Humangenetik, Tübingen, Germany.,Center for Genomics and Transcriptomics, CeGaT GmbH, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Saskia Biskup
- Praxis für Humangenetik, Tübingen, Germany.,Center for Genomics and Transcriptomics, CeGaT GmbH, Tübingen, Germany
| | - John Neidhardt
- Human Genetics, Faculty VI - School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.,Research Center Neurosensory Science, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.,Joint Research Training Group of the Faculty VI - School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany, and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Junior Research Group, Genetics of Childhood Brain Malformations, Faculty VI - School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Marta Owczarek-Lipska
- Human Genetics, Faculty VI - School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
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19
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Simon R, Wiegreffe C, Britsch S. Bcl11 Transcription Factors Regulate Cortical Development and Function. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:51. [PMID: 32322190 PMCID: PMC7158892 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.00051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors regulate multiple processes during brain development and in the adult brain, from brain patterning to differentiation and maturation of highly specialized neurons as well as establishing and maintaining the functional neuronal connectivity. The members of the zinc-finger transcription factor family Bcl11 are mainly expressed in the hematopoietic and central nervous systems regulating the expression of numerous genes involved in a wide range of pathways. In the brain Bcl11 proteins are required to regulate progenitor cell proliferation as well as differentiation, migration, and functional integration of neural cells. Mutations of the human Bcl11 genes lead to anomalies in multiple systems including neurodevelopmental impairments like intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Simon
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Britsch
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Germany
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20
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Amrom D, Poduri A, Goldman JS, Dan B, Deconinck N, Pichon B, Nadaf J, Andermann F, Andermann E, Walsh CA, Dobyns WB. Duplication 2p16 is associated with perisylvian polymicrogyria. Am J Med Genet A 2019; 179:2343-2356. [PMID: 31660690 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.61342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Polymicrogyria (PMG) is a heterogeneous brain malformation that may result from prenatal vascular disruption or infection, or from numerous genetic causes that still remain difficult to identify. We identified three unrelated patients with polymicrogyria and duplications of chromosome 2p, defined the smallest region of overlap, and performed gene pathway analysis using Cytoscape. The smallest region of overlap in all three children involved 2p16.1-p16.3. All three children have bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria (BPP), intrauterine and postnatal growth deficiency, similar dysmorphic features, and poor feeding. Two of the three children had documented intellectual disability. Gene pathway analysis suggested a number of developmentally relevant genes and gene clusters that were over-represented in the critical region. We narrowed a rare locus for polymicrogyria to a region of 2p16.1-p16.3 that contains 33-34 genes, 23 of which are expressed in cerebral cortex during human fetal development. Using pathway analysis, we showed that several of the duplicated genes contribute to neurodevelopmental pathways including morphogen, cytokine, hormonal and growth factor signaling, regulation of cell cycle progression, cell morphogenesis, axonal guidance, and neuronal migration. These findings strengthen the evidence for a novel locus associated with polymicrogyria on 2p16.1-p16.3, and comprise the first step in defining the underlying genetic etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Amrom
- Neurogenetics Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Annapurna Poduri
- Division of Epilepsy & Clinical Neurophysiology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer S Goldman
- Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health and the Department of Biomedical Engineering, McGill Centre for Integrative Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | - Bruno Pichon
- Department of Medical Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Javad Nadaf
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Genome Quebec Innovation Center, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Frederick Andermann
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Epilepsy Research Group, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eva Andermann
- Neurogenetics Unit, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Epilepsy Research Group, Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christopher A Walsh
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Genetics and Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - William B Dobyns
- Department of Pediatrics (Genetics) and Neurology, University of Washington, and Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
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21
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Peter B, Vose C, Bruce L, Ingram D. Starting to Talk at Age 10 Years: Lessons About the Acquisition of English Speech Sounds in a Rare Case of Severe Congenital But Remediated Motor Disease of Genetic Origin. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2019; 28:1029-1038. [PMID: 31298943 DOI: 10.1044/2019_ajslp-18-0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose This study was conducted to observe speech development in a child whose onset of oral communication was extremely delayed. In rare cases, children are born with physical limitations that temporarily interfere with speech sound production. Whether the development of speech sound production follows the same trajectory as that in typical children at younger ages is not well understood. Method We present a child who was wheelchair-bound and communicated nearly exclusively via augmentative and alternative communication devices due to severe congenital motor disease and generalized hypotonia. At age 10 years, her condition improved dramatically with medication after a mutation in a dopamine-related gene was discovered, and she switched entirely to oral communication. Observation of speech development was based on chart reviews, video recordings, and direct testing at age 15 years. Results At age 4 years, the participant's attempts at speech showed a small phoneme inventory consisting of early-acquired phonemes and large numbers of common phonological processes. Following the medical intervention at age 10 years, mastery of velars occurred after age 12 years and mastery of liquids was still incomplete at age 15 years. Conclusions Findings are consistent with general growth trends in speech sound acquisition that are independent of chronological age. Theoretical considerations regarding the role of motor control in the invariant order of speech sound acquisition are posited, specifically regarding articulatory building blocks. Clinical recommendations include interprofessional management of children with complex motor disease and referrals to genetics professionals in the care of such children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beate Peter
- Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Arizona State University, Tempe
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Saint Louis University, MO
| | - Caitlin Vose
- Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Arizona State University, Tempe
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Syracuse University, NY
| | - Laurel Bruce
- Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - David Ingram
- Department of Speech and Hearing Science, Arizona State University, Tempe
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22
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Turner SJ, Vogel AP, Parry-Fielder B, Campbell R, Scheffer IE, Morgan AT. Looking to the Future: Speech, Language, and Academic Outcomes in an Adolescent with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Folia Phoniatr Logop 2019; 71:203-215. [PMID: 31330526 DOI: 10.1159/000500554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The clinical course of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is poorly understood. Of the few longitudinal studies in the field, only one has examined adolescent outcomes in speech, language, and literacy. This study is the first to report long-term speech, language, and academic outcomes in an adolescent, Liam, with CAS. METHODS Speech, language, literacy, and academic outcome data were collected, including 3 research-based assessments. Overall, data were available at 17 time points from 3;10 to 15 years. RESULTS Liam had moderate-to-severe expressive language impairment and poor reading, writing, and spelling up to 10 years. His numeracy was at or above the national average from 8 to 14 years. He made gains in preadolescence, with average expressive language at 11 years and above average reading and writing at 14 years. Nonword reading, reading comprehension, and spelling remained areas of weakness. Receptive language impairment was evident at 13 years, which was an unexpected finding. CONCLUSION Findings from single cases can be hypothesis generating but require verification in larger cohorts. This case shows that at least some children with CAS may gain ground in adolescence, relative to same age peers, in expressive language and academic areas such as reading and writing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Turner
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia, .,Speech and Language Group, Clinical Sciences Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Adam P Vogel
- Centre for Neuroscience of Speech, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Redenlab, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Parry-Fielder
- Department of Speech Pathology, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Angela T Morgan
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Speech and Language Group, Clinical Sciences Theme, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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23
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Terband H, Maassen B, Maas E. A Psycholinguistic Framework for Diagnosis and Treatment Planning of Developmental Speech Disorders. Folia Phoniatr Logop 2019; 71:216-227. [PMID: 31269495 DOI: 10.1159/000499426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis and treatment planning of developmental speech disorders (DSD) remains a major challenge in paediatric speech-language pathology. Different classification systems exist, in which subtypes are differentiated based on their theoretical cause and in which the definitions generally refer to speech production processes. Accordingly, various intervention methods have been developed aiming at different parts of the speech production process. Diagnostic classification in these systems, however, is primarily based on a description of behavioural speech symptoms rather than on underlying deficits. PURPOSE In this paper, we present a process-oriented approach to diagnosis and treatment planning of DSD. Our framework comprises two general diagnostic categories: developmental delay and developmental disorder. Within these categories, treatment goals/targets and treatment methods are formulated at the level of processes and rules/representations. CONCLUSION A process-oriented approach to diagnosis and treatment planning holds important advantages, offering direct leads for treatment aimed at the underlying impairment, tailored to the specific needs of the individual and adjusted to the developmental trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayo Terband
- Utrecht Institute of Linguistics-OTS, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands,
| | - Ben Maassen
- Centre for Language and Cognition (CLCG) and University Medical Centre, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin Maas
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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24
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Kimura R, Swarup V, Tomiwa K, Gandal MJ, Parikshak NN, Funabiki Y, Nakata M, Awaya T, Kato T, Iida K, Okazaki S, Matsushima K, Kato T, Murai T, Heike T, Geschwind DH, Hagiwara M. Integrative network analysis reveals biological pathways associated with Williams syndrome. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2019; 60:585-598. [PMID: 30362171 PMCID: PMC7379192 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Williams syndrome (WS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has been attributed to heterozygous deletions in chromosome 7q11.23 and exhibits a variety of physical, cognitive, and behavioral features. However, the genetic basis of this phenotypic variability is unclear. In this study, we identified genetic clues underlying these complex phenotypes. METHODS Neurobehavioral function was assessed in WS patients and healthy controls. Total RNA was extracted from peripheral blood and subjected to microarray analysis, RNA-sequencing, and qRT-PCR. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to identify specific alterations related to intermediate disease phenotypes. To functionally interpret each WS-related module, gene ontology and disease-related gene enrichment were examined. We also investigated the micro (mi)RNA expression profiles and miRNA co-expression networks to better explain the regulation of the transcriptome in WS. RESULTS Our analysis identified four significant co-expression modules related to intermediate WS phenotypes. Notably, the three upregulated WS-related modules were composed exclusively of genes located outside the 7q11.23 region. They were significantly enriched in genes related to B-cell activation, RNA processing, and RNA transport. BCL11A, which is known for its association with speech disorders and intellectual disabilities, was identified as one of the hub genes in the top WS-related module. Finally, these key upregulated mRNA co-expression modules appear to be inversely correlated with a specific downregulated WS-related miRNA co-expression module. CONCLUSIONS Dysregulation of the mRNA/miRNA network involving genes outside of the 7q11.23 region is likely related to the complex phenotypes observed in WS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Kimura
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Vivek Swarup
- Program in NeurogeneticsDepartment of NeurologyDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Kiyotaka Tomiwa
- Department of PediatricsGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan,Department of Child NeurologyOsaka City General HospitalOsakaJapan,Todaiji Ryoiku Hospital for ChildrenNaraJapan
| | - Michael J. Gandal
- Program in NeurogeneticsDepartment of NeurologyDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Neelroop N. Parikshak
- Program in NeurogeneticsDepartment of NeurologyDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Yasuko Funabiki
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioral ScienceGraduate School of Human and Environmental StudiesKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan,Department of PsychiatryGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Masatoshi Nakata
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Tomonari Awaya
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan,Department of PediatricsGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Takeo Kato
- Department of PediatricsGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Kei Iida
- Medical Research Support CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Shin Okazaki
- Department of Child NeurologyOsaka City General HospitalOsakaJapan
| | - Kanae Matsushima
- Department of Human Health ScienceGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Toshihiro Kato
- Department of Human Health ScienceGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Toshiya Murai
- Department of PsychiatryGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Toshio Heike
- Department of PediatricsGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Daniel H. Geschwind
- Program in NeurogeneticsDepartment of NeurologyDavid Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCAUSA
| | - Masatoshi Hagiwara
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
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25
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Peter B, Dinu V, Liu L, Huentelman M, Naymik M, Lancaster H, Vose C, Schrauwen I. Exome Sequencing of Two Siblings with Sporadic Autism Spectrum Disorder and Severe Speech Sound Disorder Suggests Pleiotropic and Complex Effects. Behav Genet 2019; 49:399-414. [DOI: 10.1007/s10519-019-09957-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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26
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Estruch SB, Graham SA, Quevedo M, Vino A, Dekkers DHW, Deriziotis P, Sollis E, Demmers J, Poot RA, Fisher SE. Proteomic analysis of FOXP proteins reveals interactions between cortical transcription factors associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 27:1212-1227. [PMID: 29365100 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
FOXP transcription factors play important roles in neurodevelopment, but little is known about how their transcriptional activity is regulated. FOXP proteins cooperatively regulate gene expression by forming homo- and hetero-dimers with each other. Physical associations with other transcription factors might also modulate the functions of FOXP proteins. However, few FOXP-interacting transcription factors have been identified so far. Therefore, we sought to discover additional transcription factors that interact with the brain-expressed FOXP proteins, FOXP1, FOXP2 and FOXP4, through affinity-purifications of protein complexes followed by mass spectrometry. We identified seven novel FOXP-interacting transcription factors (NR2F1, NR2F2, SATB1, SATB2, SOX5, YY1 and ZMYM2), five of which have well-estabslished roles in cortical development. Accordingly, we found that these transcription factors are co-expressed with FoxP2 in the deep layers of the cerebral cortex and also in the Purkinje cells of the cerebellum, suggesting that they may cooperate with the FoxPs to regulate neural gene expression in vivo. Moreover, we demonstrated that etiological mutations of FOXP1 and FOXP2, known to cause neurodevelopmental disorders, severely disrupted the interactions with FOXP-interacting transcription factors. Additionally, we pinpointed specific regions within FOXP2 sequence involved in mediating these interactions. Thus, by expanding the FOXP interactome we have uncovered part of a broader neural transcription factor network involved in cortical development, providing novel molecular insights into the transcriptional architecture underlying brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Estruch
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah A Graham
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands
| | - Martí Quevedo
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Arianna Vino
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands
| | - Dick H W Dekkers
- Center for Proteomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Pelagia Deriziotis
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands
| | - Elliot Sollis
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Demmers
- Center for Proteomics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond A Poot
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam 3015 CN, The Netherlands
| | - Simon E Fisher
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen 6525 XD, The Netherlands.,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen 6525 EN, The Netherlands
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27
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A set of regulatory genes co-expressed in embryonic human brain is implicated in disrupted speech development. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1065-1078. [PMID: 29463886 PMCID: PMC6756287 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-018-0020-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Genetic investigations of people with impaired development of spoken language provide windows into key aspects of human biology. Over 15 years after FOXP2 was identified, most speech and language impairments remain unexplained at the molecular level. We sequenced whole genomes of nineteen unrelated individuals diagnosed with childhood apraxia of speech, a rare disorder enriched for causative mutations of large effect. Where DNA was available from unaffected parents, we discovered de novo mutations, implicating genes, including CHD3, SETD1A and WDR5. In other probands, we identified novel loss-of-function variants affecting KAT6A, SETBP1, ZFHX4, TNRC6B and MKL2, regulatory genes with links to neurodevelopment. Several of the new candidates interact with each other or with known speech-related genes. Moreover, they show significant clustering within a single co-expression module of genes highly expressed during early human brain development. This study highlights gene regulatory pathways in the developing brain that may contribute to acquisition of proficient speech.
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28
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Chen CP, Chern SR, Wu PS, Chen SW, Lai ST, Chuang TY, Chen WL, Yang CW, Wang W. Prenatal diagnosis of a 3.2-Mb 2p16.1-p15 duplication associated with familial intellectual disability. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 57:578-582. [PMID: 30122582 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2018.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We present prenatal diagnosis of a 2p16.1-p15 duplication associated with familial intellectual disability, and we discuss the genotype-phenotype correlation. CASE REPORT A 22-year-old, primigravid woman underwent amniocentesis at 22 weeks of gestation because of a family history of intellectual disability. The woman and her two sisters had intellectual disability but no behavioral disorders. The intellectual disability was noted in at least one paternal aunt and six paternal cousins of the woman. Cytogenetic analysis revealed the karyotype of 46,XX in the fetus and the two women. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analysis on the DNAs extracted from cultured amniocytes and the bloods of the woman and the her sister revealed a 3.244-Mb duplication of 2p16.1-p15 or arr 2p16.1p15 (58,288,588-61,532,538) × 3.0 [GRCh37 (hg19)] encompassing eight Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) genes of VRK2, FANCL, BCL11A, PAPOLG, REL, PUS10, PEX13 and USP34 in the fetus and the two women. Prenatal ultrasound findings were unremarkable. The woman elected to continue the pregnancy. A 3244-g female baby was delivered at term with neither craniofacial dysmorphism nor structural abnormalities. CONCLUSION aCGH is useful in prenatal diagnosis of inherited subtle chromosome imbalance in pregnancy with familial intellectual disability. Chromosome 2p16.1-p15 duplication can be associated with intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ping Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan; School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan; Institute of Clinical and Community Health Nursing, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Schu-Rern Chern
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Shin-Wen Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ting Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yun Chuang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Lin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wen Yang
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wayseen Wang
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Bioengineering, Tatung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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29
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Morgan AT, Webster R. Aetiology of childhood apraxia of speech: A clinical practice update for paediatricians. J Paediatr Child Health 2018; 54:1090-1095. [PMID: 30294994 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a rare disorder of childhood that can leave a watermark of the impacts throughout the lifetime. Since being first described in the 1950s, aetiological insights have been limited. At a neurobiological level, clinical MRI scans fail to reveal overt neural anomalies in individual cases with CAS, although quantitative MRI methods have revealed subtle brain anomalies at a group level. Dramatic insights, however, occurred in the past decade from the discovery of genetic pathways underlying the phenotype. Several single genes and copy number-variant conditions are now associated with CAS either in relative isolation, as in the case of FOXP2 variants, or most typically in association with other neurodevelopmental conditions, such as epilepsy, intellectual disability, motor impairment and autism. CAS requires careful differential diagnosis from other childhood speech disorders, but when a severe and persistent diagnosis is confirmed, a genetic aetiology should increasingly be pursued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela T Morgan
- Speech and Language, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Webster
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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30
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Functional characterization of TBR1 variants in neurodevelopmental disorder. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14279. [PMID: 30250039 PMCID: PMC6155134 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32053-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent de novo variants in the TBR1 transcription factor are implicated in the etiology of sporadic autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Disruptions include missense variants located in the T-box DNA-binding domain and previous work has demonstrated that they disrupt TBR1 protein function. Recent screens of thousands of simplex families with sporadic ASD cases uncovered additional T-box variants in TBR1 but their etiological relevance is unclear. We performed detailed functional analyses of de novo missense TBR1 variants found in the T-box of ASD cases, assessing many aspects of protein function, including subcellular localization, transcriptional activity and protein-interactions. Only two of the three tested variants severely disrupted TBR1 protein function, despite in silico predictions that all would be deleterious. Furthermore, we characterized a putative interaction with BCL11A, a transcription factor that was recently implicated in a neurodevelopmental syndrome involving developmental delay and language deficits. Our findings enhance understanding of molecular functions of TBR1, as well as highlighting the importance of functional testing of variants that emerge from next-generation sequencing, to decipher their contributions to neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD.
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31
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Lovrecic L, Gnan C, Baldan F, Franzoni A, Bertok S, Damante G, Isidor B, Peterlin B. Microduplication in the 2p16.1p15 chromosomal region linked to developmental delay and intellectual disability. Mol Cytogenet 2018; 11:39. [PMID: 29951117 PMCID: PMC6011332 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-018-0388-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several patients with the 2p16.1p15 microdeletion syndrome have been reported. However, microduplication in the 2p16.1p15 chromosomal region has only been reported in one case, and milder clinical features were present compared to those attributed to 2p16.1p15 microdeletion syndrome. Some additional cases were deposited in DECIPHER database. Case presentation In this report we describe four further cases of 2p16.1p15 microduplication in four unrelated probands. They presented with mild gross motor delay, delayed speech and language development, and mild dysmorphic features. In addition, two probands have macrocephaly and one a congenital heart anomaly. Newly described cases share several phenotype characteristics with those detailed in one previously reported microduplication case. Conclusion The common features among patients are developmental delay, speech delay, mild to moderate intellectual disability and unspecific dysmorphic features. Two patients have bilateral clinodactyly of the 5th finger and two have bilateral 2nd-3rd toes syndactyly. Interestingly, as opposed to the deletion phenotype with some cases of microcephaly, 2 patients are reported with macrocephaly. The reported cases suggest that microduplication in 2p16.1p15 chromosomal region might be causally linked to developmental delay, speech delay, and mild intellectual disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Lovrecic
- 1Clinical Institute of Medical Genetics, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Chiara Gnan
- 2Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Federica Baldan
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialità Mediche dell'Università Sapienza di Roma, Udine, Italy
| | - Alessandra Franzoni
- 2Istituto di Genetica Medica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Sara Bertok
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Bertrand Isidor
- 6Service de génétique médicale, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Borut Peterlin
- 1Clinical Institute of Medical Genetics, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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32
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Soblet J, Dimov I, Graf von Kalckreuth C, Cano-Chervel J, Baijot S, Pelc K, Sottiaux M, Vilain C, Smits G, Deconinck N. BCL11A frameshift mutation associated with dyspraxia and hypotonia affecting the fine, gross, oral, and speech motor systems. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 176:201-208. [PMID: 28960836 PMCID: PMC5765401 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We report the case of a 7‐year‐old male of Western European origin presenting with moderate intellectual disability, severe childhood apraxia of speech in the presence of oral and manual dyspraxia, and hypotonia across motor systems including the oral and speech motor systems. Exome sequencing revealed a de novo frameshift protein truncating mutation in the fourth exon of BCL11A, a gene recently demonstrated as being involved in cognition and language development. Making parallels with a previously described patient with a 200 kb 2p15p16.1 deletion encompassing the entire BCL11A gene and displaying a similar phenotype, we characterize in depth how BCL11A is involved in clinical aspects of language development and oral praxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Soblet
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ivan Dimov
- Faculté de Médecine ULB, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Clemens Graf von Kalckreuth
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julie Cano-Chervel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simon Baijot
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Karin Pelc
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine Sottiaux
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catheline Vilain
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Guillaume Smits
- Department of Genetics, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Genetics, Hôpital Erasme, ULB Center of Human Genetics, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Interuniversity Institute of Bioinformatics in Brussels, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Deconinck
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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33
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Deriziotis P, Fisher SE. Speech and Language: Translating the Genome. Trends Genet 2017; 33:642-656. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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34
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Peter B, Lancaster H, Vose C, Fares A, Schrauwen I, Huentelman M. Two unrelated children with overlapping 6q25.3 deletions, motor speech disorders, and language delays. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:2659-2669. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beate Peter
- Arizona State University; Tempe Arizona
- Saint Louis University; Saint Louis Missouri
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35
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Ziegler W, Ackermann H. Subcortical Contributions to Motor Speech: Phylogenetic, Developmental, Clinical. Trends Neurosci 2017; 40:458-468. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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36
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Lévy J, Coussement A, Dupont C, Guimiot F, Baumann C, Viot G, Passemard S, Capri Y, Drunat S, Verloes A, Pipiras E, Benzacken B, Dupont JM, Tabet AC. Molecular and clinical delineation of 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:2081-2087. [PMID: 28573701 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Interstitial 2p15p16.1 microdeletion is a rare chromosomal syndrome previously reported in 33 patients. It is characterized by intellectual disability, developmental delay, autism spectrum disorders, microcephaly, short stature, dysmorphic features, and multiple congenital organ defects. It is defined as a contiguous gene syndrome and two critical regions have been proposed at 2p15 and 2p16.1 loci. Nevertheless, patients with deletion of both critical regions shared similar features of the phenotype and the correlation genotype-phenotype is still unclear. We review all published cases and describe three additional patients, to define the phenotype-genotype correlation more precisely. We reported on two patients including the first prenatal case described so far, carrying a 2p15 deletion affecting two genes: XPO1 and part of USP34. Both patients shared similar features including facial dysmorphism and cerebral abnormalities. We considered the genes involved in the deleted segment to further understand the abnormal phenotype. The third case we described here was a 4-year-old boy with a heterozygous de novo 427 kb deletion encompassing BCL11A and PAPOLG at 2p16.1. He displayed speech delay, autistic traits, and motor stereotypies associated with brain structure abnormalities. We discuss the contribution of the genes included in the deletion to the abnormal phenotype. Our three new patients compared to previous cases, highlighted that despite two critical regions, both distal deletion at 2p16.1 and proximal deletion at 2p15 are associated with phenotypes that are very close to each other. Finally, we also discuss the genetic counseling of this microdeletion syndrome particularly in the course of prenatal diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Lévy
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR1141, Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, Robert-Debré Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Aurélie Coussement
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, APHP, Cochin Hospital, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Céline Dupont
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Fabien Guimiot
- INSERM UMR1141, Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, Robert-Debré Hospital, Paris, France
- Department of Developmental Biology, APHP Robert-Debré hospital, Paris Diderot University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Clarisse Baumann
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Géraldine Viot
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, APHP, Cochin Hospital, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Sandrine Passemard
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR1141, Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, Robert-Debré Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Yline Capri
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Séverine Drunat
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Alain Verloes
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Eva Pipiras
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR1141, Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, Robert-Debré Hospital, Paris, France
- University Hospital Jean-Verdier, Department of Cytogenetic, Embryology and Histology, Bondy, France
| | - Brigitte Benzacken
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR1141, Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, Robert-Debré Hospital, Paris, France
- University Hospital Jean-Verdier, Department of Cytogenetic, Embryology and Histology, Bondy, France
| | - Jean-Michel Dupont
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, APHP, Cochin Hospital, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Claude Tabet
- Genetics Department, AP-HP, Robert-Debré University Hospital, Paris, France
- Neuroscience Department, Génétique Humaine et Fonction Cognitive Unit, Pasteur Institute, Paris, France
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Shimbo H, Yokoi T, Aida N, Mizuno S, Suzumura H, Nagai J, Ida K, Enomoto Y, Hatano C, Kurosawa K. Haploinsufficiency of BCL11A associated with cerebellar abnormalities in 2p15p16.1 deletion syndrome. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2017; 5:429-437. [PMID: 28717667 PMCID: PMC5511803 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromosome 2p15p16.1 deletion syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by intellectual disability (ID), neurodevelopmental delay, language delay, growth retardation, microcephaly, structural brain abnormalities, and dysmorphic features. More than 30 patients with 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome have been reported in the literature. METHODS Molecular analysis was performed using microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH). Clinical characteristics and brain magnetic resonance imaging features of these patients were also reviewed. RESULTS We identified four patients with ID, neurodevelopmental delay, brain malformations, and dysmorphic features; two patients with 2p15p16.1 deletions (3.24 Mb, 5.04 Mb), one patient with 2p16.1 deletion (1.12 Mb), and one patient with 2p14p16.1 deletion (5.12 Mb). Three patients with 2p15p16.1 deletions or 2p16.1 deletions encompassing BCL11A,PAPOLG, and REL showed hypoplasia of the pons and cerebellum. The patient with 2p14p16.1 deletion, which did not include three genes showed normal size and shape of the cerebellar hemispheres and pons. CONCLUSION The zinc finger transcription factor BCL11A associated with the BAF chromatin remodeling complex has been identified to be critical for neural development and BCL11A haploinsufficiency is closely related to cerebellar abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Shimbo
- Clinical Research InstituteKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Takayuki Yokoi
- Division of Medical GeneticsKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Noriko Aida
- Division of RadiologyKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Seiji Mizuno
- Department of PediatricsAichi Human Service CenterCentral HospitalKasugaiJapan
| | - Hiroshi Suzumura
- Department of PediatricsDokkyo Medical University School of MedicineTochigiJapan
| | - Junichi Nagai
- Laboratory MedicineKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Kazumi Ida
- Division of Medical GeneticsKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Yumi Enomoto
- Clinical Research InstituteKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Chihiro Hatano
- Division of Medical GeneticsKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
| | - Kenji Kurosawa
- Division of Medical GeneticsKanagawa Children's Medical CenterYokohamaJapan
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Codipilly DC, Gavrilova RH, Tangalos EG. De novo 2p16.1 microdeletion with metastatic esophageal adenocarcinoma. BMJ Case Rep 2017; 2017:bcr-2016-218016. [PMID: 28108439 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microdeletions involving chromosome 2p15-16.1 are a rare genetic abnormality and have been reported in 18 separate patients, mainly children, since 2007. This microdeletion syndrome is characterised by a heterogeneous expression of intellectual impairment, dysmorphic facies, musculoskeletal abnormalities and potential neurodevelopmental anomalies. We report the first case of natural progression in an adult patient who died at a young age of metastatic esophageal adenocarcinoma. Important learning points include the variable phenotypic expression of this microdeletion syndrome and the fact that clinicians must be thorough in investigating objective discrepancies in patients who cannot endorse classical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Don Chamil Codipilly
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ralitza H Gavrilova
- Department of Clinical Genomics and Neurology, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Eric G Tangalos
- Department of Primary Care Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Carrigg B, Parry L, Baker E, Shriberg LD, Ballard KJ. Cognitive, Linguistic, and Motor Abilities in a Multigenerational Family with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Arch Clin Neuropsychol 2016; 31:1006-1025. [PMID: 27707700 PMCID: PMC7427608 DOI: 10.1093/arclin/acw077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study describes the phenotype in a large family with a strong, multigenerational history of severe speech sound disorder (SSD) persisting into adolescence and adulthood in approximately half the cases. Aims were to determine whether a core phenotype, broader than speech, separated persistent from resolved SSD cases; and to ascertain the uniqueness of the phenotype relative to published cases. Method Eleven members of the PM family (9–55 years) were assessed across cognitive, language, literacy, speech, phonological processing, numeracy, and motor domains. Between group comparisons were made using the Mann–WhitneyU-test (p < 0.01). Participant performances were compared to normative data using standardized tests and to the limited published data on persistent SSD phenotypes. Results Significant group differences were evident on multiple speech, language, literacy, phonological processing, and verbal intellect measures without any overlapping scores. Persistent cases performed within the impaired range on multiple measures. Phonological memory impairment and subtle literacy weakness were present in resolved SSD cases. Conclusion A core phenotype distinguished persistent from resolved SSD cases that was characterized by a multiple verbal trait disorder, including Childhood Apraxia of Speech. Several phenotypic differences differentiated the persistent SSD phenotype in the PM family from the few previously reported studies of large families with SSD, including the absence of comorbid dysarthria and marked orofacial apraxia. This study highlights how comprehensive phenotyping can advance the behavioral study of disorders, in addition to forming a solid basis for future genetic and neural studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Carrigg
- Speech Pathology Department, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney2031, Australia.,Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney1825, Australia
| | - Louise Parry
- Department of Psychology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney2031, Australia
| | - Elise Baker
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney1825, Australia
| | | | - Kirrie J Ballard
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney1825, Australia
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BCL11A Haploinsufficiency Causes an Intellectual Disability Syndrome and Dysregulates Transcription. Am J Hum Genet 2016; 99:253-74. [PMID: 27453576 PMCID: PMC4974071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2016.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Intellectual disability (ID) is a common condition with considerable genetic heterogeneity. Next-generation sequencing of large cohorts has identified an increasing number of genes implicated in ID, but their roles in neurodevelopment remain largely unexplored. Here we report an ID syndrome caused by de novo heterozygous missense, nonsense, and frameshift mutations in BCL11A, encoding a transcription factor that is a putative member of the BAF swi/snf chromatin-remodeling complex. Using a comprehensive integrated approach to ID disease modeling, involving human cellular analyses coupled to mouse behavioral, neuroanatomical, and molecular phenotyping, we provide multiple lines of functional evidence for phenotypic effects. The etiological missense variants cluster in the amino-terminal region of human BCL11A, and we demonstrate that they all disrupt its localization, dimerization, and transcriptional regulatory activity, consistent with a loss of function. We show that Bcl11a haploinsufficiency in mice causes impaired cognition, abnormal social behavior, and microcephaly in accordance with the human phenotype. Furthermore, we identify shared aberrant transcriptional profiles in the cortex and hippocampus of these mouse models. Thus, our work implicates BCL11A haploinsufficiency in neurodevelopmental disorders and defines additional targets regulated by this gene, with broad relevance for our understanding of ID and related syndromes.
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Gialluisi A, Visconti A, Willcutt EG, Smith SD, Pennington BF, Falchi M, DeFries JC, Olson RK, Francks C, Fisher SE. Investigating the effects of copy number variants on reading and language performance. J Neurodev Disord 2016; 8:17. [PMID: 27186239 PMCID: PMC4868026 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-016-9147-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reading and language skills have overlapping genetic bases, most of which are still unknown. Part of the missing heritability may be caused by copy number variants (CNVs). METHODS In a dataset of children recruited for a history of reading disability (RD, also known as dyslexia) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their siblings, we investigated the effects of CNVs on reading and language performance. First, we called CNVs with PennCNV using signal intensity data from Illumina OmniExpress arrays (~723,000 probes). Then, we computed the correlation between measures of CNV genomic burden and the first principal component (PC) score derived from several continuous reading and language traits, both before and after adjustment for performance IQ. Finally, we screened the genome, probe-by-probe, for association with the PC scores, through two complementary analyses: we tested a binary CNV state assigned for the location of each probe (i.e., CNV+ or CNV-), and we analyzed continuous probe intensity data using FamCNV. RESULTS No significant correlation was found between measures of CNV burden and PC scores, and no genome-wide significant associations were detected in probe-by-probe screening. Nominally significant associations were detected (p~10(-2)-10(-3)) within CNTN4 (contactin 4) and CTNNA3 (catenin alpha 3). These genes encode cell adhesion molecules with a likely role in neuronal development, and they have been previously implicated in autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. A further, targeted assessment of candidate CNV regions revealed associations with the PC score (p~0.026-0.045) within CHRNA7 (cholinergic nicotinic receptor alpha 7), which encodes a ligand-gated ion channel and has also been implicated in neurodevelopmental conditions and language impairment. FamCNV analysis detected a region of association (p~10(-2)-10(-4)) within a frequent deletion ~6 kb downstream of ZNF737 (zinc finger protein 737, uncharacterized protein), which was also observed in the association analysis using CNV calls. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that CNVs do not underlie a substantial proportion of variance in reading and language skills. Analysis of additional, larger datasets is warranted to further assess the potential effects that we found and to increase the power to detect CNV effects on reading and language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Gialluisi
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Wundtlaan 1, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands ; Department of Translational Research in Psychiatry, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Alessia Visconti
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Erik G Willcutt
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA ; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Shelley D Smith
- Munroe Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE USA
| | | | - Mario Falchi
- Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - John C DeFries
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA ; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Richard K Olson
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA ; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Clyde Francks
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Wundtlaan 1, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands ; Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Simon E Fisher
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Wundtlaan 1, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands ; Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Genetic Candidate Variants in Two Multigenerational Families with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153864. [PMID: 27120335 PMCID: PMC4847873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a severe and socially debilitating form of speech sound disorder with suspected genetic involvement, but the genetic etiology is not yet well understood. Very few known or putative causal genes have been identified to date, e.g., FOXP2 and BCL11A. Building a knowledge base of the genetic etiology of CAS will make it possible to identify infants at genetic risk and motivate the development of effective very early intervention programs. We investigated the genetic etiology of CAS in two large multigenerational families with familial CAS. Complementary genomic methods included Markov chain Monte Carlo linkage analysis, copy-number analysis, identity-by-descent sharing, and exome sequencing with variant filtering. No overlaps in regions with positive evidence of linkage between the two families were found. In one family, linkage analysis detected two chromosomal regions of interest, 5p15.1-p14.1, and 17p13.1-q11.1, inherited separately from the two founders. Single-point linkage analysis of selected variants identified CDH18 as a primary gene of interest and additionally, MYO10, NIPBL, GLP2R, NCOR1, FLCN, SMCR8, NEK8, and ANKRD12, possibly with additive effects. Linkage analysis in the second family detected five regions with LOD scores approaching the highest values possible in the family. A gene of interest was C4orf21 (ZGRF1) on 4q25-q28.2. Evidence for previously described causal copy-number variations and validated or suspected genes was not found. Results are consistent with a heterogeneous CAS etiology, as is expected in many neurogenic disorders. Future studies will investigate genome variants in these and other families with CAS.
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Ctip1 Regulates the Balance between Specification of Distinct Projection Neuron Subtypes in Deep Cortical Layers. Cell Rep 2016; 15:999-1012. [PMID: 27117402 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.03.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular linkage between neocortical projection neuron subtype and area development, which enables the establishment of functional areas by projection neuron populations appropriate for specific sensory and motor functions, is poorly understood. Here, we report that Ctip1 controls precision of neocortical development by regulating subtype identity in deep-layer projection neurons. Ctip1 is expressed by postmitotic callosal and corticothalamic projection neurons but is excluded over embryonic development from corticospinal motor neurons, which instead express its close relative, Ctip2. Loss of Ctip1 function results in a striking bias in favor of subcerebral projection neuron development in sensory cortex at the expense of corticothalamic and deep-layer callosal development, while misexpression of Ctip1 in vivo represses subcerebral gene expression and projections. As we report in a paired paper, Ctip1 also controls acquisition of sensory area identity. Therefore, Ctip1 couples subtype and area specification, enabling specific functional areas to organize precise ratios of appropriate output projections.
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44
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Simon R, Baumann L, Fischer J, Seigfried FA, De Bruyckere E, Liu P, Jenkins NA, Copeland NG, Schwegler H, Britsch S. Structure-function integrity of the adult hippocampus depends on the transcription factor Bcl11b/Ctip2. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2016; 15:405-19. [PMID: 26915960 PMCID: PMC4832350 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The dentate gyrus is one of the only two brain regions where adult neurogenesis occurs. Throughout life, cells of the neuronal stem cell niche undergo proliferation, differentiation and integration into the hippocampal neural circuitry. Ongoing adult neurogenesis is a prerequisite for the maintenance of adult hippocampal functionality. Bcl11b, a zinc finger transcription factor, is expressed by postmitotic granule cells in the developing as well as adult dentate gyrus. We previously showed a critical role of Bcl11b for hippocampal development. Whether Bcl11b is also required for adult hippocampal functions has not been investigated. Using a tetracycline‐dependent inducible mouse model under the control of the forebrain‐specific CaMKIIα promoter, we show here that the adult expression of Bcl11b is essential for survival, differentiation and functional integration of adult‐born granule cell neurons. In addition, Bcl11b is required for survival of pre‐existing mature neurons. Consequently, loss of Bcl11b expression selectively in the adult hippocampus results in impaired spatial working memory. Together, our data uncover for the first time a specific role of Bcl11b in adult hippocampal neurogenesis and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Simon
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm
| | - L Baumann
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm.,Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen
| | - J Fischer
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm
| | - F A Seigfried
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm.,Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - E De Bruyckere
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm
| | - P Liu
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - N A Jenkins
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - N G Copeland
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - H Schwegler
- Institute of Anatomy, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - S Britsch
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Anatomy, Ulm University, Ulm
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Bagheri H, Badduke C, Qiao Y, Colnaghi R, Abramowicz I, Alcantara D, Dunham C, Wen J, Wildin RS, Nowaczyk MJ, Eichmeyer J, Lehman A, Maranda B, Martell S, Shan X, Lewis SM, O’Driscoll M, Gregory-Evans CY, Rajcan-Separovic E. Identifying candidate genes for 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome using clinical, genomic, and functional analysis. JCI Insight 2016; 1:e85461. [PMID: 27699255 PMCID: PMC5033885 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.85461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome has a core phenotype consisting of intellectual disability, microcephaly, hypotonia, delayed growth, common craniofacial features, and digital anomalies. So far, more than 20 cases of 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome have been reported in the literature; however, the size of the deletions and their breakpoints vary, making it difficult to identify the candidate genes. Recent reports pointed to 4 genes (XPO1, USP34, BCL11A, and REL) that were included, alone or in combination, in the smallest deletions causing the syndrome. Here, we describe 8 new patients with the 2p15p16.1 deletion and review all published cases to date. We demonstrate functional deficits for the above 4 candidate genes using patients' lymphoblast cell lines (LCLs) and knockdown of their orthologs in zebrafish. All genes were dosage sensitive on the basis of reduced protein expression in LCLs. In addition, deletion of XPO1, a nuclear exporter, cosegregated with nuclear accumulation of one of its cargo molecules (rpS5) in patients' LCLs. Other pathways associated with these genes (e.g., NF-κB and Wnt signaling as well as the DNA damage response) were not impaired in patients' LCLs. Knockdown of xpo1a, rel, bcl11aa, and bcl11ab resulted in abnormal zebrafish embryonic development including microcephaly, dysmorphic body, hindered growth, and small fins as well as structural brain abnormalities. Our multifaceted analysis strongly implicates XPO1, REL, and BCL11A as candidate genes for 2p15p16.1 microdeletion syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Bagheri
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chansonette Badduke
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ying Qiao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rita Colnaghi
- Human DNA Damage Response Disorders Group, Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Iga Abramowicz
- Human DNA Damage Response Disorders Group, Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Diana Alcantara
- Human DNA Damage Response Disorders Group, Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Dunham
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jiadi Wen
- University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | | | - Malgorzata J.M. Nowaczyk
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University Medical Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Bruno Maranda
- Medical Genetics, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Sally Martell
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Xianghong Shan
- Department of Ophthalmology, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Suzanne M.E. Lewis
- Department of Medical Genetics, UBC, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark O’Driscoll
- Human DNA Damage Response Disorders Group, Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Evica Rajcan-Separovic
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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46
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Erickson RP. The importance of de novo mutations for pediatric neurological disease--It is not all in utero or birth trauma. MUTATION RESEARCH-REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2016; 767:42-58. [PMID: 27036065 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The advent of next generation sequencing (NGS, which consists of massively parallel sequencing to perform TGS (total genome sequencing) or WES (whole exome sequencing)) has abundantly discovered many causative mutations in patients with pediatric neurological disease. A surprisingly high number of these are de novo mutations which have not been inherited from either parent. For epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, and neuromotor disorders, including cerebral palsy, initial estimates put the frequency of causative de novo mutations at about 15% and about 10% of these are somatic. There are some shared mutated genes between these three classes of disease. Studies of copy number variation by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) proceded the NGS approaches but they also detect de novo variation which is especially important for ASDs. There are interesting differences between the mutated genes detected by CGS and NGS. In summary, de novo mutations cause a very significant proportion of pediatric neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Erickson
- Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85724, United States.
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47
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Mimouni-Bloch A, Yeshaya J, Kahana S, Maya I, Basel-Vanagaite L. A de-novo interstitial microduplication involving 2p16.1-p15 and mirroring 2p16.1-p15 microdeletion syndrome: Clinical and molecular analysis. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2015; 19:711-5. [PMID: 26278498 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2015.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2015] [Revised: 06/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microdeletions of various sizes in the 2p16.1-p15 chromosomal region have been grouped together under the 2p16.1-p15 microdeletion syndrome. Children with this syndrome generally share certain features including microcephaly, developmental delay, facial dysmorphism, urogenital and skeletal abnormalities. We present a child with a de-novo interstitial 1665 kb duplication of 2p16.1-p15. METHODS AND RESULTS Clinical features of this child are distinct from those of children with the 2p16.1-p15 microdeletion syndrome, specifically the head circumference which is within the normal range and mild intellectual disability with absence of autistic behaviors. Microduplications many times bear milder clinical phenotypes in comparison with corresponding microdeletion syndromes. Indeed, as compared to the microdeletion syndrome patients, the 2p16.1-p15 microduplication seems to have a milder cognitive effect and no effect on other body systems. Limited information available in genetic databases about cases with overlapping duplications indicates that they all have abnormal developmental phenotypes. CONCLUSION The involvement of genes in this location including BCL11A, USP34 and PEX13, affecting fundamental developmental processes both within and outside the nervous system may explain the clinical features of the individual described in this report.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviva Mimouni-Bloch
- The Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Unit, Loewenstein Rehabilitation Hospital 278 Ahuza Street, Raanana, 43100, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, P.O. 39040, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel.
| | - Josepha Yeshaya
- Raphael Recanati Genetic Institute, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Campus and Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Derech Ze'ev Jabotinsky 39, Petah Tikva, 4941492, Israel.
| | - Sarit Kahana
- Raphael Recanati Genetic Institute, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Campus and Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Derech Ze'ev Jabotinsky 39, Petah Tikva, 4941492, Israel.
| | - Idit Maya
- Raphael Recanati Genetic Institute, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Campus and Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Derech Ze'ev Jabotinsky 39, Petah Tikva, 4941492, Israel.
| | - Lina Basel-Vanagaite
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, P.O. 39040, Ramat-Aviv, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel; Raphael Recanati Genetic Institute, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Campus and Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Derech Ze'ev Jabotinsky 39, Petah Tikva, 4941492, Israel; Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Rabin Medical Center, Derech Ze'ev Jabotinsky 39, Petah Tikva, 4941492, Israel.
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48
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Chilosi AM, Lorenzini I, Fiori S, Graziosi V, Rossi G, Pasquariello R, Cipriani P, Cioni G. Behavioral and neurobiological correlates of childhood apraxia of speech in Italian children. BRAIN AND LANGUAGE 2015; 150:177-85. [PMID: 26552038 DOI: 10.1016/j.bandl.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/24/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a neurogenic Speech Sound Disorder whose etiology and neurobiological correlates are still unclear. In the present study, 32 Italian children with idiopathic CAS underwent a comprehensive speech and language, genetic and neuroradiological investigation aimed to gather information on the possible behavioral and neurobiological markers of the disorder. The results revealed four main aggregations of behavioral symptoms that indicate a multi-deficit disorder involving both motor-speech and language competence. Six children presented with chromosomal alterations. The familial aggregation rate for speech and language difficulties and the male to female ratio were both very high in the whole sample, supporting the hypothesis that genetic factors make substantial contribution to the risk of CAS. As expected in accordance with the diagnosis of idiopathic CAS, conventional MRI did not reveal macrostructural pathogenic neuroanatomical abnormalities, suggesting that CAS may be due to brain microstructural alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Chilosi
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Irene Lorenzini
- Laboratorio di Linguistica 'Giovanni Nencioni', Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza dei Cavalieri 7, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Simona Fiori
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Graziosi
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rossi
- Unità di Epidemiologia e Biostatistica, Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica Consiglio Nazionale delle Richerche, Via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Rosa Pasquariello
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Cipriani
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cioni
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze dell'Età Evolutiva, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56128 Pisa, Italy; Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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49
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Abstract
Language is a defining characteristic of the human species, but its foundations remain mysterious. Heritable disorders offer a gateway into biological underpinnings, as illustrated by the discovery that FOXP2 disruptions cause a rare form of speech and language impairment. The genetic architecture underlying language-related disorders is complex, and although some progress has been made, it has proved challenging to pinpoint additional relevant genes with confidence. Next-generation sequencing and genome-wide association studies are revolutionizing understanding of the genetic bases of other neurodevelopmental disorders, like autism and schizophrenia, and providing fundamental insights into the molecular networks crucial for typical brain development. We discuss how a similar genomic perspective, brought to the investigation of language-related phenotypes, promises to yield equally informative discoveries. Moreover, we outline how follow-up studies of genetic findings using cellular systems and animal models can help to elucidate the biological mechanisms involved in the development of brain circuits supporting language.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Graham
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Simon E Fisher
- Language and Genetics Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands; .,Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
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50
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Bcl11a (Ctip1) Controls Migration of Cortical Projection Neurons through Regulation of Sema3c. Neuron 2015; 87:311-25. [PMID: 26182416 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2015.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
During neocortical development, neurons undergo polarization, oriented migration, and layer-type-specific differentiation. The transcriptional programs underlying these processes are not completely understood. Here, we show that the transcription factor Bcl11a regulates polarity and migration of upper layer neurons. Bcl11a-deficient late-born neurons fail to correctly switch from multipolar to bipolar morphology, resulting in impaired radial migration. We show that the expression of Sema3c is increased in migrating Bcl11a-deficient neurons and that Bcl11a is a direct negative regulator of Sema3c transcription. In vivo gain-of-function and rescue experiments demonstrate that Sema3c is a major downstream effector of Bcl11a required for the cell polarity switch and for the migration of upper layer neurons. Our data uncover a novel Bcl11a/Sema3c-dependent regulatory pathway used by migrating cortical neurons.
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