1
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Maniego J, Harding C, Habershon-Butcher J, Hincks P, Ryder E. Administration and detection of a multi-target rAAV gene doping vector in horses using multiple matrices and molecular techniques. Gene Ther 2024; 31:477-488. [PMID: 38972888 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-024-00462-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Gene doping, which includes the non-therapeutic use of genes or genetic elements that have the capacity to enhance athletic performance, is prohibited in horseracing and equestrian sports. To provide a comprehensive assessment of matrix and detection techniques, a custom adeno-associated virus serotype 8 vector was designed to include PCR binding sites for multiple target genes and assay types. The vector was injected via an intramuscular route into two Thoroughbred horses and matrices collected at defined timepoints. DNA was analysed using 3 detection methods: qPCR, digital PCR, and NGS. Overall, there was a strong correlation across the different detection methods employed, although digital PCR was less sensitive at lower concentrations. High concentrations of vector were detected at early timepoints in plasma and whole blood, which rapidly dropped after 0.5 d to trace levels by 4 d and 9 d post-administration respectively, following a similar pattern to previous studies. Vector was detected in dried blood spots at lower levels than whole blood, but with a similar detection time. Detection in hair root bulbs in one horse was observed at over a month post-administration, which opens new avenues for future gene doping testing in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Maniego
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5WW, UK
| | - Caitlin Harding
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5WW, UK
| | | | - Pamela Hincks
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5WW, UK
| | - Edward Ryder
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5WW, UK.
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2
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Gray B, Lubbock K, Love C, Ryder E, Hudson S, Scarth J. Analytical advances in horseracing medication and doping control from 2018 to 2023. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 39010718 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3760] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
The analytical approaches taken by laboratories to implement robust and efficient regulation of horseracing medication and doping control are complex and constantly evolving. Each laboratory's approach will be dictated by differences in regulatory, economic and scientific drivers specific to their local environment. However, in general, laboratories will all be undertaking developments and improvements to their screening strategies in order to meet new and emerging threats as well as provide improved service to their customers. In this paper, the published analytical advances in horseracing medication and doping control since the 22nd International Conference of Racing Analysts and Veterinarians will be reviewed. Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on the worldwide economy, the normal 2-year period of this review was extended to over 5 years. As such, there was considerable ground to cover, resulting in an increase in the number of relevant publications included from 107 to 307. Major trends in publications will be summarised and possible future directions highlighted. This will cover developments in the detection of 'small' and 'large' molecule drugs, sample preparation procedures and the use of alternative matrices, instrumental advances/applications, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, the detection and prevalence of 'endogenous' compounds and biomarker and OMICs approaches. Particular emphasis will be given to research into the potential threat of gene doping, which is a significant area of new and continued research for many laboratories. Furthermore, developments in analytical instrumentation relevant to equine medication and doping control will be discussed.
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3
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Furukawa R, Tozaki T, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Takahashi Y, Fukui E, Kakoi H. A method for detecting gene doping in horse sports without DNA extraction. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38853330 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3745] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Gene doping is prohibited in horse sports and can involve the administration of exogenous genes, called transgenes, to postnatal animals. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods have been developed to detect gene doping; however, these generally require DNA extraction from the plasma prior to qPCR. In this study, we developed two methods, direct droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and nested ddPCR, to detect the equine erythropoietin (EPO) transgene without DNA extraction. Direct ddPCR used pretreated plasma and PCR to detect the EPO transgene spiked at 10 copies/μL. Nested ddPCR utilised pre-amplification using nontreated plasma, purification of PCR products and PCR to detect the EPO transgene spiked at 1 copy/μL in plasma. These methods successfully detected the EPO transgene after intramuscular injection into horses. Since each method has different detection sensitivity, the combined use of direct ddPCR for screening and nested ddPCR for confirmation may complement each other and prevent the occurrence of false positives, allowing the reliable detection of gene-doped substances. One advantage of these methods is the small amount of sample required, approximately 2.2-5.0 μl, owing to the lack of a DNA extraction step. Therefore, these tests could be applied to small volume samples as an alternative to conventional gene doping tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risako Furukawa
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Emiko Fukui
- School of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
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4
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Yuen BPN, Wong KS, So YM, Kwok WH, Cheung HW, Wan TSM, Ho ENM, Wong WT. Gene Doping Control Analysis of Human Erythropoietin Transgene in Equine Plasma by PCR-Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2024; 96:5307-5314. [PMID: 38504497 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Gene doping involves the misuse of genetic materials to alter an athlete's performance, which is banned at all times in both human and equine sports. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays have been used to control the misuse of transgenes in equine sports. Our laboratory recently developed and implemented duplex as well as multiplex qPCR assays for transgenes detection. To further advance gene doping control, we have developed for the first time a sensitive and definitive PCR-liquid chromatography high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (PCR-LC-HRMS/MS) method for transgene detection with an estimated limit of detection of below 100 copies/mL for the human erythropoietin (hEPO) transgene in equine plasma. The method involved magnetic-glass-particle-based extraction of DNA from equine plasma prior to PCR amplification with 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate (dUTP) followed by treatments with uracil DNA glycosylase and hot piperidine for selective cleavage to give small oligonucleotide fragments. The resulting DNA fragments were then analyzed by LC-HRMS/MS. The applicability of this method has been demonstrated by the successful detection of hEPO transgene in a blood sample collected from a gelding (castrated male horse) that had been administered the transgene. This novel approach not only serves as a complementary method for transgene detection but also paves the way for developing a generic PCR-LC-HRMS/MS method for the detection of multiple transgenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Pui-Nam Yuen
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin-Sing Wong
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Yat-Ming So
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai Him Kwok
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Hiu Wing Cheung
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Terence See Ming Wan
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Emmie Ngai-Man Ho
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Wing-Tak Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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5
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Li R, Su P, Shi Y, Shi H, Ding S, Su X, Chen P, Wu D. Gene doping detection in the era of genomics. Drug Test Anal 2024. [PMID: 38403949 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3664] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Recent progress in gene editing has enabled development of gene therapies for many genetic diseases, but also made gene doping an emerging risk in sports and competitions. By delivery of exogenous transgenes into human body, gene doping not only challenges competition fairness but also places health risk on athletes. World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has clearly inhibited the use of gene and cell doping in sports, and many techniques have been developed for gene doping detection. In this review, we will summarize the main tools for gene doping detection at present, highlight the main challenges for current tools, and elaborate future utilizations of high-throughput sequencing for unbiased, sensitive, economic and large-scale gene doping detections. Quantitative real-time PCR assays are the widely used detection methods at present, which are useful for detection of known targets but are vulnerable to codon optimization at exon-exon junction sites of the transgenes. High-throughput sequencing has become a powerful tool for various applications in life and health research, and the era of genomics has made it possible for sensitive and large-scale gene doping detections. Non-biased genomic profiling could efficiently detect new doping targets, and low-input genomics amplification and long-read third-generation sequencing also have application potentials for more efficient and straightforward gene doping detection. By closely monitoring scientific advancements in gene editing and sport genetics, high-throughput sequencing could play a more and more important role in gene detection and hopefully contribute to doping-free sports in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihong Li
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Center of Agri-Products Quality and Safety, Shanghai, China
| | - Peipei Su
- Innovative Program of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Shi
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Shi
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengqian Ding
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianbin Su
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peijie Chen
- School of Exercise and Health, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Die Wu
- eHealth Program of Shanghai Anti-doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
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Lu Y, Yan J, Ou G, Fu L. A Review of Recent Progress in Drug Doping and Gene Doping Control Analysis. Molecules 2023; 28:5483. [PMID: 37513354 PMCID: PMC10386588 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28145483] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The illicit utilization of performance-enhancing substances, commonly referred to as doping, not only infringes upon the principles of fair competition within athletic pursuits but also poses significant health hazards to athletes. Doping control analysis has emerged as a conventional approach to ensuring equity and integrity in sports. Over the past few decades, extensive advancements have been made in doping control analysis methods, catering to the escalating need for qualitative and quantitative analysis of numerous banned substances exhibiting diverse chemical and biological characteristics. Progress in science, technology, and instrumentation has facilitated the proliferation of varied techniques for detecting doping. In this comprehensive review, we present a succinct overview of recent research developments within the last ten years pertaining to these doping detection methodologies. We undertake a comparative analysis, evaluating the merits and limitations of each technique, and offer insights into the prospective future advancements in doping detection methods. It is noteworthy that the continual design and synthesis of novel synthetic doping agents have compelled researchers to constantly refine and innovate doping detection methods in order to address the ever-expanding range of covertly employed doping agents. Overall, we remain in a passive position for doping detection and are always on the road to doping control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuze Lu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Jiayu Yan
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Gaozhi Ou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, School of Physical Education, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Li Fu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Materials for Sensor of Zhejiang Province, College of Materials and Environmental Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou 310018, China
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7
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Ohnuma A, Tozaki T, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Takahashi Y, Nagata SI. Multiplex Detection of Transgenes Using πCode Technology for Gene Doping Control. Anal Chem 2023. [PMID: 37379520 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c00988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
To ensure fair competition and sports integrity, gene doping is prohibited in horseracing and equine sports. One gene doping method is by administering exogenous genes, called transgenes, to postnatal animals. Although several transgene detection methods have been developed for horses, many are unsuitable for multiplex detection. In this proof-of-concept study, we developed a highly sensitive and multiplex transgene detection method using multiple πCode with identification patterns printed on the surface. The following steps were employed: (1) multiplex polymerase chain reaction amplification of 12 targeted transgenes in a single tube, (2) detection using a mixture of 12 probes labeled with different πCodes, and (3) median fluorescence intensity measurement of fluorescent πCodes. Twelve transgenes cloned into plasmid vectors were targeted, and 1500 copies of each plasmid were spiked into 1.5 mL of horse plasma. Subsequently, a novel method using πCode succeeded in detecting all the transgenes using their DNA extracts. Additionally, we detected the erythropoietin (EPO) transgene in blood samples from a horse administered solely with the EPO transgene using this method. Therefore, the πCode detection method is considered suitable for multitarget gene detection in gene doping tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4 Shiba, Shimotsuke, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2 Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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8
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TOZAKI T, OHNUMA A, KIKUCHI M, ISHIGE T, KAKOI H, HIROTA KI, TAKAHASHI Y, NAGATA SI. Investigation of optimal procedures for storage and use of plasma samples suitable for gene doping tests. J Equine Sci 2023; 34:21-27. [PMID: 37405066 PMCID: PMC10315635 DOI: 10.1294/jes.34.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene doping, which is prohibited in horseracing and equestrian sports, can be performed by introducing exogenous genes, known as transgenes, into the bodies of postnatal animals. To detect exogenous genes, a method utilizing quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) with a hydrolysis probe was developed to test whole blood and plasma samples, thereby protecting the fairness of competition and the rights of stakeholders in horseracing and equestrian sports. Therefore, we aimed to develop sample storage methods suitable for A and B samples in gene doping tests using blood. For sample A, sufficient qPCR detection was demonstrated after refrigeration for 1 to 2 weeks post collection. For sample B, the following procedures were confirmed to be suitable for storage: 1) centrifugation after sample receipt, 2) frozen storage, 3) natural thawing at room temperature, and 4) centrifugation without mixing blood cell components. Our results indicated that long-term cryopreservation yielded good plasma components from frozen blood samples even though it destroyed blood cells, indicating its applicability to the gene doping test using sample B, which can be stored for later use. Sample storage procedures are as important as detection methods in doping tests. Therefore, the series of procedures that we evaluated in this study will contribute to the efficient performance of gene doping tests through qPCR using blood samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki TOZAKI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Aoi OHNUMA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Mio KIKUCHI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro ISHIGE
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga KAKOI
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-ichi HIROTA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Yuji TAKAHASHI
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing
Association, Tochigi 329-0412, Japan
| | - Shun-ichi NAGATA
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of
Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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9
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Haughan J, Ortved KF, Robinson MA. Administration and detection of gene therapy in horses: A systematic review. Drug Test Anal 2023; 15:143-162. [PMID: 36269665 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3394] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy uses genetic modification of cells to produce a therapeutic effect. Defective or missing genes can be repaired or replaced, or gene expression can be modified using a variety of technologies. Repair of defective genes can be achieved using specialized gene editing tools. Gene addition promotes gene expression by introducing synthetic copies of genes of interest (transgenes) into cells where they are transcribed and translated into therapeutic proteins. Protein production can also be modified using therapies that regulate gene expression. Gene therapy is currently prohibited in both human and equine athletes because of the potential to induce production of performance-enhancing proteins in the athlete's body, also referred to as "gene doping." Detection of gene doping is challenging and necessitates development of creative, novel analytical methods for doping control. Methods for detection of gene doping must be specific to and will vary depending on the type of gene therapy. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a systematic review of gene editing, gene therapy, and detection of gene doping in horses. Based on the published literature, gene therapy has been administered to horses in a large number of experimental studies and a smaller number of clinical cases. Detection of gene therapy is possible using a combination of PCR and sequencing technologies. This summary can provide a basis for discussion of appropriate and inappropriate uses for gene therapy in horses by the veterinary community and guide expansion of methods to detect inappropriate uses by the regulatory community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Haughan
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kyla F Ortved
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mary A Robinson
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA.,Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology & Research Center, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
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Conditionally immortalised equine skeletal muscle cell lines for in vitro analysis. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 33:101391. [PMID: 36504704 PMCID: PMC9727643 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101391] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Thoroughbred racehorse performance is largely influenced by a major quantitative trait locus at the myostatin (MSTN) gene which determines aptitude for certain race distances due to a promoter region insertion mutation influencing functional phenotypes in skeletal muscle. To develop an in vitro system for functional experiments we established three novel equine skeletal muscle cell lines reflecting the variation in phenotype associated with MSTN genotype (CC/II, CT/IN and TT/NN for SNP g.66493737C > T/SINE insertion 227 bp polymorphism). Primary equine skeletal muscle myoblasts, isolated from Thoroughbred horse gluteus medius, were conditionally immortalised and evaluated to determine whether cell phenotype and metabolic function were comparable to functional characteristics previously reported for ex vivo skeletal muscle isolated from Thoroughbred horses with each genotype. Results Primary myoblasts conditionally immortalised with the temperature sensitive SV40TtsA58 lentivirus vector successfully proliferated and could revert to their primary cell phenotype and differentiate into multinucleated myotubes. Skeletal muscle fibre type, MSTN gene expression, mitochondrial abundance, and mitochondrial function of the three MSTN genotype cell lines, were consistent with equivalent characterisation of ex vivo skeletal muscle samples with these genotypes. Furthermore, addition of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) to the cell lines improved mitochondrial function, an observation consistent with ex vivo skeletal muscle samples with these genotypes following supplementation with CoQ10 in the diet. Conclusions The observation that the phenotypic characteristics and metabolic function of the cells lines are equivalent to ex vivo skeletal muscle indicates that this in vitro system will enable efficient and cost-effective analyses of equine skeletal muscle for a range of different applications including understanding metabolic function, testing of nutritional supplements, drug test development and gene doping test development. In the multi-billion-euro international Thoroughbred horse industry research advances in the biological function of skeletal muscle are likely to have considerable impact. Furthermore, this novel genotype-specific system may be adapted and applied to human biomedicine to improve understanding of the effects of myostatin in human physiology and medicine.
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11
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Nakamura K, Hano K, Takasu M, Takahashi Y, Tamura N, Sato F, Shimizu K, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Hamilton NA, Nagata SI. Detection of Indiscriminate Genetic Manipulation in Thoroughbred Racehorses by Targeted Resequencing for Gene-Doping Control. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13091589. [PMID: 36140757 PMCID: PMC9498419 DOI: 10.3390/genes13091589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The creation of genetically modified horses is prohibited in horse racing as it falls under the banner of gene doping. In this study, we developed a test to detect gene editing based on amplicon sequencing using next-generation sequencing (NGS). We designed 1012 amplicons to target 52 genes (481 exons) and 147 single-nucleotide variants (SNVs). NGS analyses showed that 97.7% of the targeted exons were sequenced to sufficient coverage (depth > 50) for calling variants. The targets of artificial editing were defined as homozygous alternative (HomoALT) and compound heterozygous alternative (ALT1/ALT2) insertion/deletion (INDEL) mutations in this study. Four models of gene editing (three homoALT with 1-bp insertions, one REF/ALT with 77-bp deletion) were constructed by editing the myostatin gene in horse fibroblasts using CRISPR/Cas9. The edited cells and 101 samples from thoroughbred horses were screened using the developed test, which was capable of identifying the three homoALT cells containing 1-bp insertions. Furthermore, 147 SNVs were investigated for their utility in confirming biological parentage. Of these, 120 SNVs were amenable to consistent and accurate genotyping. Surrogate (nonbiological) dams were excluded by 9.8 SNVs on average, indicating that the 120 SNV could be used to detect foals that have been produced by somatic cloning or embryo transfer, two practices that are prohibited in thoroughbred racing and breeding. These results indicate that gene-editing tests that include variant calling and SNV genotyping are useful to identify genetically modified racehorses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
- Correspondence:
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kotono Nakamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Masaki Takasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yuji Takahashi
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Norihisa Tamura
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Fumio Sato
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, 1400-4, Shiba, Shimotsuke 329-0412, Japan
| | - Kyo Shimizu
- Registration Department, Japan Association for International Racing and Stud Book, 4-5-4, Shimbashi, Minato, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
| | - Natasha A. Hamilton
- Equine Genetics Research Centre, Racing Australia, 2 Randwick Way, Scone, NSW 2337, Australia
| | - Shun-ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya 320-0851, Japan
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12
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Cheung HW, Wong KS, Lin VYC, Farrington AF, Bond A, Wan TSM, Ho ENM. Optimization and implementation of four duplex qPCR assays for gene doping control in horseracing. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1587-1598. [PMID: 35633307 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The concern about gene doping has remained high in horseracing and other equestrian competitions. Our laboratory has previously developed a duplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay capable of detecting in equine blood the human erythropoietin (hEPO) transgene and equine tubulin α 4a (TUBA4A) gene as an internal control, the latter providing quality control over DNA extraction and qPCR. This study aimed to optimize the method for routine testing of regulatory samples. The use of an automated DNA extraction system has increased the sample throughput, consistency of DNA extraction and recovery of reference materials. The use of reduced concentration of primers and hydrolysis probe for internal control minimized their competition with transgene amplification and improved the assay sensitivity. Spike-in of an exogenous internal control at low concentration for plasma analysis has also been validated. Using the new workflow, four duplex qPCR assays have been developed for the detection of transgenes, namely hEPO, human growth hormone (hGH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (hIGF-1), and equine EPO (eEPO). The estimated limits of detection (LODs) of each transgene were 2,000 copies/mL of blood and 200 copies/mL of plasma. This method could detect the presence of transgene in blood and plasma collected from a horse administered intramuscularly (IM) with recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) carrying the hEPO transgene. A longer detection time was observed in blood than in plasma. The methods have been applied to the screening of over a thousand official racehorse samples since June 2020 for the presence of these transgenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiu Wing Cheung
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Kin-Sing Wong
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Venus Y C Lin
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Adrian F Farrington
- Veterinary Clinical Services, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Amanda Bond
- Equestrian Affairs, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Terence S M Wan
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Emmie N M Ho
- Racing Laboratory, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin, N. T., Hong Kong, China
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13
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Kusano K, Nagata SI. Design and storage stability of reference materials for microfluidic quantitative PCR-based equine gene doping tests. J Equine Sci 2022; 32:125-134. [PMID: 35023990 PMCID: PMC8731687 DOI: 10.1294/jes.32.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
One method of gene doping in horseracing is administering of exogenous genetic materials, known as transgenes. Several polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods have been developed for detecting transgenes with high sensitivity and specificity. However, novel designs for reference materials (RMs) and/or positive template controls (PTCs) are necessary for simultaneous analysis of multiple transgene targets. In this study, we designed and developed a novel RM for simultaneously detecting multiple targets via microfluidic quantitative PCR (MFQPCR). Twelve equine genes were selected as targets in this study. A sequence region including primers and probes for quantitative PCR was designed, and a 10 bp sequence was inserted to allow the RM to be distinguished from the original transgene sequences. The sequences of individual detection sites were then connected for 12 genes and cloned into a single plasmid vector. We performed fragment size analysis to distinguish between the PCR products of the original transgene sequence and those of the RM, enabling identification of RM contamination. PTCs diluted to 10,000, 1,000, 100, and 10 copies/µl with horse genomic DNA from RM were stably stored at 4°C for 1 year. As digital PCR enabled absolute quantification, the designed substances can serve as an RM. These findings indicate that the RM design and storage conditions were suitable for gene doping tests using MFQPCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, Tokyo 106-8401, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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14
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Maniego J, Pesko B, Hincks P, Taylor P, Stewart G, Proudman C, Scarth J, Ryder E. Direct sequence confirmation of qPCR products for gene doping assay validation in horses. Drug Test Anal 2022; 14:1017-1025. [PMID: 34994083 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The misuse of gene therapy by the introduction of transgenes via plasmid or viral vectors as a doping agent is an increasing concern in human and animal sports, not only in consideration to fair competition but also potential detrimental effects to welfare. Doping events can be detected by PCR amplification of a transgene-specific region of DNA. The quantitative nature of real time qPCR makes it particularly suited to confirmatory investigations where precise limits of detection can be calculated. To fully validate a qPCR experiment, it is highly desirable to confirm the identity of the amplicon. Although post-PCR techniques such as melt curve and fragment size analysis can provide strong evidence that the amplicon is as expected, sequence identity confirmation may be beneficial as part of regulatory proceedings. We present here our investigation into two alternative processes for the direct assessment of qPCR products for five genes using next-generation sequencing: ligation of sequence-ready adapters to qPCR products, and qPCR assays performed with primers tailed with Illumina flow cell binding sites. To fully test the robustness of the techniques at concentrations required for gene doping detection, we also calculated a putative limit of detection for the assays. Both ligated adapters and tailed primers were successful in producing sequence data for the qPCR products without further amplification. Ligated adapters are preferred, however, as they do not require re-optimisation of existing qPCR assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Maniego
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Bogusia Pesko
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Pamela Hincks
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Polly Taylor
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Graham Stewart
- School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey
| | | | - James Scarth
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Edward Ryder
- Sport and Specialised Analytical Services, LGC, Newmarket Road, Fordham, Cambridgeshire, UK
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15
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Hamilton NA, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Kusano K, Nagata SI. Low-copy transgene detection using nested digital polymerase chain reaction for gene-doping control. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:382-387. [PMID: 34608764 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gene doping is prohibited for fair competition in human and horse sports. One style of gene doping is the administration of an exogeneous gene, called a transgene, to postnatal humans and horses. Although many transgene detection methods based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), including real-time PCR and digital PCR, have been recently developed, it remains difficult to reliably detect low-copy transgenes. In this study, we developed and validated a nested digital PCR method to specifically detect low-copy transgenes. The nested digital PCR consists of (1) preamplification using conventional PCR and (2) droplet digital PCR detection using a hydrolysis probe. Using 5, 10, 20, 60 and 120 transgene copies as template, 496.0, 1089.7, 1820.7, 4313.3 and 7840.0 copies per microlitre, respectively, were detected using our nested digital PCR. Although high concentrations of phenol, proteinase K, ethanol, EDTA, heparin and genomic DNA all inhibited preamplification, their effects on the digital PCR detection were limited. Once preamplification was successful, even substitution of bases within the primers and probes had minimal effects on transgene detection. The nested digital PCR developed in this study successfully detected low-copy transgenes and can be used to perform a qualitative test, indicating its usefulness in the prevention of false positives and false negatives in gene-doping detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Natasha A Hamilton
- Equine Genetics Research Centre, Racing Australia, Scone, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
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16
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Jiang Z, Haughan J, Moss KL, Stefanovski D, Ortved KF, Robinson MA. A quantitative PCR screening method for adeno-associated viral vector 2-mediated gene doping. Drug Test Anal 2021; 14:963-972. [PMID: 34412153 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Gene therapy is currently prohibited in human and equine athletes and novel analytical methods are needed for its detection. Most in vivo products use non-integrating, recombinant viral vectors derived from adeno-associated virus (AAV) to deliver transgenes into cells, where they are transcribed and translated into functional proteins. Although the majority of wild-type AAV (WTAAV) DNA is removed from recombinant AAV (rAAV) vectors, some sequences are conserved. The goal of this study was to develop a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) screening test targeting conserved AAV sequences to enable theoretical detection of all rAAV gene therapy products, regardless of encoded transgenes while excluding the presence of WTAAV DNA in horses. Primer sets were developed and validated to target an AAV2 sequence highly conserved across rAAV viral vectors and a sequence only found in wild type AAV2 (WTAAV2). Six horses were administered an intra-articular injection of rAAV. Plasma and synovial fluid were collected on days 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 84. Using QPCR, rAAV was detected in plasma for up to 2-4 days in all horses. rAAV DNA was detected for 28 days in synovial fluid from two horses for which synovial fluid samples were available. No WTAAV2 DNA was detected in any sample. This is the first study to develop a QPCR test capable of screening for rAAV vectors that may be used for gene doping in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibin Jiang
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joanne Haughan
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kaitlyn L Moss
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Darko Stefanovski
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kyla F Ortved
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mary A Robinson
- Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA.,Pennsylvania Equine Toxicology and Research Laboratory, West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA
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17
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Rare and common variant discovery by whole-genome sequencing of 101 Thoroughbred racehorses. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16057. [PMID: 34362995 PMCID: PMC8346562 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95669-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The Thoroughbred breed was formed by crossing Oriental horse breeds and British native horses and is currently used in horseracing worldwide. In this study, we constructed a single-nucleotide variant (SNV) database using data from 101 Thoroughbred racehorses. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) revealed 11,570,312 and 602,756 SNVs in autosomal (1–31) and X chromosomes, respectively, yielding a total of 12,173,068 SNVs. About 6.9% of identified SNVs were rare variants observed only in one allele in 101 horses. The number of SNVs detected in individual horses ranged from 4.8 to 5.3 million. Individual horses had a maximum of 25,554 rare variants; several of these were functional variants, such as non-synonymous substitutions, start-gained, start-lost, stop-gained, and stop-lost variants. Therefore, these rare variants may affect differences in traits and phenotypes among individuals. When observing the distribution of rare variants among horses, one breeding stallion had a smaller number of rare variants compared to other horses, suggesting that the frequency of rare variants in the Japanese Thoroughbred population increases through breeding. In addition, our variant database may provide useful basic information for industrial applications, such as the detection of genetically modified racehorses in gene-doping control and pedigree-registration of racehorses using SNVs as markers.
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18
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Shen W, Liang X. PHYSICAL EXERCISE IN THE PROMOTION OF GENE THERAPY AUXILIARY EFFECT. REV BRAS MED ESPORTE 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1517-8692202127082021_0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: In recent years, genetic engineering has made outstanding contributions to sports, and it has played a huge role in promoting the development of sports-related fields. Objective: We analyze the tissue source of bone growth and healing by studying the role of bone morphogenetic protein and transforming growth factors in fracture injuries caused by sports. Methods: We established a human fracture model to express the shape and content of bone morphogenetic protein and transforming growth factor during fracture healing. Results: In the fracture healing stage caused by different sports, the expression levels of the two genes are different. Bone morphogenetic protein has a high content in the osteogenesis stage of the membrane, while transforming growth factor is high in the cartilage ossification stage. Conclusion: Gene therapy for fractures caused by physical exercise has certain advantages. Osteoblasts and chondrocytes are involved in the synthesis of transforming growth factors. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaojun Liang
- Zhaoqing Medical College, China; University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, Philippines
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19
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota KI, Kusano K, Nagata SI. Robustness of digital PCR and real-time PCR against inhibitors in transgene detection for gene doping control in equestrian sports. Drug Test Anal 2021; 13:1768-1775. [PMID: 34270866 DOI: 10.1002/dta.3131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Gene doping is a threat to fair competition in sports, both human and equestrian. One method of gene doping is to administer exogenous genetic materials, called transgenes, into the bodies of postnatal humans and horses. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based transgene detection methods such as digital PCR and real-time PCR have been developed for gene doping testing in humans and horses. However, the significance of PCR inhibitors in gene doping testing has not been well evaluated. In this study, we evaluated the effects of PCR inhibitors on transgene detection using digital PCR and real-time PCR against gene doping. Digital PCR amplification was significantly inhibited by high concentrations of proteinase K (more than 0.1 μg/μl), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (more than 5 nmol/μl), and heparin (more than 0.05 unit/μl) but not by ethanol or genomic DNA. In addition, phenol affected droplet formation in the digital PCR amplification process. Real-time PCR amplification was inhibited by high concentrations of phenol (more than 1% v/v), proteinase K (more than 0.001 μg/μl), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (more than 1 nmol/μl), heparin (more than 0.005 unit/μl), and genomic DNA (more than 51.9 ng/μl) but not by ethanol. Although both PCR systems were inhibited by nearly the same substances, digital PCR was more robust than real-time PCR against the inhibitors. We believe that our findings are important for the development of better methods for transgene detection and prevention of false negative results in gene doping testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, Minato, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan
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20
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Tozaki T, Hamilton NA. Control of gene doping in human and horse sports. Gene Ther 2021; 29:107-112. [PMID: 34099895 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-021-00267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, Tochigi, 320-0851, Japan.
| | - Natasha A Hamilton
- Equine Genetics Research Centre, Racing Australia, Flemington, NSW, 2337, Australia
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21
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Tozaki T, Ohnuma A, Iwai S, Kikuchi M, Ishige T, Kakoi H, Hirota K, Kusano K, Nagata S. Robustness of Digital PCR and Real-Time PCR in Transgene Detection for Gene-Doping Control. Anal Chem 2021; 93:7133-7139. [PMID: 33913315 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c01173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gene doping is banned in human sports, horseracing, and equestrian sports. One possible form of gene doping is to administer exogenous genes, called transgenes. Several transgene detection methods based on quantitative PCR have been developed. In this study, we investigated the robustness of digital PCR and real-time PCR in transgene detection using primers and probes that matched (P-true) or incompletely matched (P-false) the template DNA. Fluorescence intensity was significantly reduced when substituted probes were used compared to that using the matched probe in both digital and real-time PCR assays. Digital PCR yielded a similar copy number regardless of the probe (P-true: 1230.7, P-false: 1229.7), whereas real-time PCR revealed a decrease in sensitivity based on Cq values (P-true: 23.5, P-false: 29.7). When substituted primers were used, the detected copy number decreased in the digital PCR assay, and the Cq value in real-time PCR was much higher. Interestingly, digital PCR copy numbers improved by performing PCR at a low annealing temperature, even if a substituted probe was used. Thus, when primer and probe sequences did not completely match the template transgene, digital PCR was relatively robust, but real-time PCR was less sensitive. Although PCR specificity may be reduced, PCR sensitivity can be improved by lowering the annealing temperature. If the target sequence is substituted to escape doping detection, it may be desirable to set the annealing temperature lower and use a more robust method, such as digital PCR, to increase the detection of positive cases, which will also result in fewer false-negative results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Tozaki
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan.,Department of Healthcare and Regulatory Sciences, Showa University School of Pharmacy, 1-5-8, Hatanodai, Shinagawa, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Aoi Ohnuma
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Shinichi Iwai
- Department of Healthcare and Regulatory Sciences, Showa University School of Pharmacy, 1-5-8, Hatanodai, Shinagawa, Tokyo 142-8555, Japan
| | - Mio Kikuchi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Taichiro Ishige
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Hironaga Kakoi
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Keiichi Hirota
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
| | - Kanichi Kusano
- Equine Department, Japan Racing Association, 6-11-1, Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo 106-8401, Japan
| | - Shunichi Nagata
- Genetic Analysis Department, Laboratory of Racing Chemistry, 1731-2, Tsurutamachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 320-0851, Japan
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