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Singh J, Randle MR, Walters BJ, Cox BC. The transcription factor Pou4f3 is essential for the survival of postnatal and adult mouse cochlear hair cells and normal hearing. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1369282. [PMID: 38566840 PMCID: PMC10985149 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1369282] [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: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hair cells (HCs) of the cochlea are responsible for sound transduction and hearing perception in mammals. Genetic mutations in the transcription factor Pou4f3 cause non-syndromic autosomal dominant hearing loss in humans (DFNA15) which varies in the age of onset depending on the individual mutation. Mouse models with germline deletion or mutations in Pou4f3 have previously demonstrated its critical role in the maturation and survival of cochlear HCs during embryonic development. However, the role of Pou4f3 in auditory function and in the survival or maintenance of cochlear HCs after birth and during adulthood has not been studied. Methods Therefore, using the inducible CreER-loxP system, we deleted Pou4f3 from mouse cochlear HCs at different postnatal ages, relevant to specific stages of HC maturation and hearing function. Results and discussion Elevated auditory brainstem response thresholds and significant HC loss were detected in mice with Pou4f3 deletion compared to their control littermates, regardless of the age when Pou4f3 was deleted. However, HC loss occurred more rapidly when Pou4f3 was deleted from immature HCs. Additionally, HC loss caused by Pou4f3 deletion did not affect the number of cochlear supporting cells, but caused a delayed loss of spiral ganglion neurons at 4 months after the deletion. In conclusion, Pou4f3 is necessary for the survival of cochlear HCs and normal hearing at all postnatal ages regardless of their maturation state. Our data also suggest that Pou4f3 indirectly regulates the survival of spiral ganglion neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarnail Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, United States
| | - Michelle R. Randle
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, United States
| | - Bradley J. Walters
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
| | - Brandon C. Cox
- Department of Pharmacology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, United States
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2
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Lee SY, Kim MY, Han JH, Park SS, Yun Y, Jee SC, Han JJ, Lee JH, Seok H, Choi BY. Ramifications of POU4F3 variants associated with autosomal dominant hearing loss in various molecular aspects. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12584. [PMID: 37537203 PMCID: PMC10400627 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38272-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
POU4F3, a member of the POU family of transcription factors, commonly causes autosomal dominant deafness. Exome sequencing was used to identify four novel variants in POU4F3 (NM_002700.2), including c.564dupA: p.Ala189SerfsTer26, c.743T > C:p.Leu248Pro, c.879C > A:p.Phe293Leu, and c.952G > A:p.Val318Met, and diverse aspects of the molecular consequences of their protein expression, stability, subcellular localization, and transcriptional activity were investigated. The expression of three mutant proteins, encoded by missense variants, was reduced compared to the wild-type protein, demonstrating that the mutants were unstable and vulnerable to degradation. Additionally, all the mutant proteins had distinct subcellular localization patterns. A mutant protein carrying p.Ala189SerfsTer26, in which both mono- and bi-partite nuclear localization signals were disrupted, showed abnormal subcellular localization. Resultantly, all the mutant proteins significantly reduced the transcriptional activity required to regulate the downstream target gene expression. Furthermore, we identified the altered expression of 14 downstream target genes associated with inner ear development using patient-derived lymphoblastoid cell lines. There was a significant correlation of the expression profile between patient-derived cells and the cochlear hair cells, which provided a breakthrough for cases where the collection of human cochlear samples for transcriptome studies was unfeasible. This study expanded the genotypic spectrum of POU4F3 in DFNA15, and further refined the molecular mechanisms underlying POU4F3-associated DFNA15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Yeon Lee
- Department of Genomic Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Sensory Organ Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Young Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 463-707, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hee Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 463-707, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Soo Park
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Yun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Cheol Jee
- Department of Transdisciplinary Research and Collaboration, Genomics Core Facility, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Joon Han
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Ho Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Heeyoung Seok
- Department of Transdisciplinary Research and Collaboration, Genomics Core Facility, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung Yoon Choi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, 463-707, Republic of Korea.
- Sensory Organ Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Aldè M, Cantarella G, Zanetti D, Pignataro L, La Mantia I, Maiolino L, Ferlito S, Di Mauro P, Cocuzza S, Lechien JR, Iannella G, Simon F, Maniaci A. Autosomal Dominant Non-Syndromic Hearing Loss (DFNA): A Comprehensive Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1616. [PMID: 37371710 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (HL) typically occurs when only one dominant allele within the disease gene is sufficient to express the phenotype. Therefore, most patients diagnosed with autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL have a hearing-impaired parent, although de novo mutations should be considered in all cases of negative family history. To date, more than 50 genes and 80 loci have been identified for autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL. DFNA22 (MYO6 gene), DFNA8/12 (TECTA gene), DFNA20/26 (ACTG1 gene), DFNA6/14/38 (WFS1 gene), DFNA15 (POU4F3 gene), DFNA2A (KCNQ4 gene), and DFNA10 (EYA4 gene) are some of the most common forms of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL. The characteristics of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL are heterogenous. However, in most cases, HL tends to be bilateral, post-lingual in onset (childhood to early adulthood), high-frequency (sloping audiometric configuration), progressive, and variable in severity (mild to profound degree). DFNA1 (DIAPH1 gene) and DFNA6/14/38 (WFS1 gene) are the most common forms of autosomal dominant non-syndromic HL affecting low frequencies, while DFNA16 (unknown gene) is characterized by fluctuating HL. A long audiological follow-up is of paramount importance to identify hearing threshold deteriorations early and ensure prompt treatment with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Aldè
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Giovanna Cantarella
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Zanetti
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pignataro
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, 20090 Milan, Italy
- Department of Specialist Surgical Sciences, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20090 Milan, Italy
| | - Ignazio La Mantia
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Luigi Maiolino
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Ferlito
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Di Mauro
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Cocuzza
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Jérôme René Lechien
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Giannicola Iannella
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Francois Simon
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
| | - Antonino Maniaci
- Otology Study Group of the Young-Otolaryngologists of the International Federations of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (YO-IFOS), 75000 Paris, France
- Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies G.F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
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Singh S, Penney C, Griffin A, Woodland G, Werdyani S, Benteau TA, Abdelfatah N, Squires J, King B, Houston J, Dyer MJ, Roslin NM, Vincent D, Marquis P, O'Rielly DD, Hodgkinson K, Burt T, Baker A, Stanton SG, Young TL. Highly variable hearing loss due to POU4F3 (c.37del) is revealed by longitudinal, frequency specific analyses. Eur J Hum Genet 2023:10.1038/s41431-023-01358-0. [PMID: 37072551 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01358-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Genotype-phenotype correlations add value to the management of families with hereditary hearing loss (HL), where age-related typical audiograms (ARTAs) are generated from cross-sectional regression equations and used to predict the audiogram phenotype across the lifespan. A seven-generation kindred with autosomal dominant sensorineural HL (ADSNHL) was recruited and a novel pathogenic variant in POU4F3 (c.37del) was identified by combining linkage analysis with whole exome sequencing (WES). POU4F3 is noted for large intrafamilial variation including the age of onset of HL, audiogram configuration and presence of vestibular impairment. Sequential audiograms and longitudinal analyses reveal highly variable audiogram features among POU4F3 (c.37del) carriers, limiting the utility of ARTAs for clinical prognosis and management of HL. Furthermore, a comparison of ARTAs against three previously published families (1 Israeli Jewish, 2 Dutch) reveals significant interfamilial differences, with earlier onset and slower deterioration. This is the first published report of a North American family with ADSNHL due to POU4F3, the first report of the pathogenic c.37del variant, and the first study to conduct longitudinal analysis, extending the phenotypic spectrum of DFNA15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushma Singh
- Communication Sciences and Disorders and National Centre for Audiology, Western University, Elborn College, 1201 Western Road, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cindy Penney
- Centre for Translational Genomics, Health Sciences Centre, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Anne Griffin
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Geoffrey Woodland
- Centre for Translational Genomics, Health Sciences Centre, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Salem Werdyani
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Tammy A Benteau
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Nelly Abdelfatah
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Jessica Squires
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | | | - Jim Houston
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Matthew J Dyer
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Nicole M Roslin
- The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Vincent
- Canadian Centre for Computational Genomics, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Pascale Marquis
- Canadian Centre for Computational Genomics, McGill University, 740 Dr. Penfield Avenue, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Darren D O'Rielly
- Centre for Translational Genomics, Health Sciences Centre, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Kathy Hodgkinson
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Taylor Burt
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Ashley Baker
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Susan G Stanton
- Communication Sciences and Disorders and National Centre for Audiology, Western University, Elborn College, 1201 Western Road, London, ON, Canada
| | - Terry-Lynn Young
- Communication Sciences and Disorders and National Centre for Audiology, Western University, Elborn College, 1201 Western Road, London, ON, Canada.
- Centre for Translational Genomics, Health Sciences Centre, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada.
- Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University, 300 Prince Philip Drive, St. John's, NL, Canada.
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5
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Velde HM, Huizenga XJJ, Yntema HG, Haer-Wigman L, Beynon AJ, Oostrik J, Pegge SAH, Kremer H, Lanting CP, Pennings RJE. Genotype and Phenotype Analyses of a Novel WFS1 Variant (c.2512C>T p.(Pro838Ser)) Associated with DFNA6/14/38. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:457. [PMID: 36833385 PMCID: PMC9957259 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to contribute to a better description of the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of DFNA6/14/38 and aid in counseling future patients identified with this variant. Therefore, we describe the genotype and phenotype in a large Dutch-German family (W21-1472) with autosomal dominant non-syndromic, low-frequency sensorineural hearing loss (LFSNHL). Exome sequencing and targeted analysis of a hearing impairment gene panel were used to genetically screen the proband. Co-segregation of the identified variant with hearing loss was assessed by Sanger sequencing. The phenotypic evaluation consisted of anamnesis, clinical questionnaires, physical examination and examination of audiovestibular function. A novel likely pathogenic WFS1 variant (NM_006005.3:c.2512C>T p.(Pro838Ser)) was identified in the proband and found to co-segregate with LFSNHL, characteristic of DFNA6/14/38, in this family. The self-reported age of onset of hearing loss (HL) ranged from congenital to 50 years of age. In the young subjects, HL was demonstrated in early childhood. At all ages, an LFSNHL (0.25-2 kHz) of about 50-60 decibel hearing level (dB HL) was observed. HL in the higher frequencies showed inter-individual variability. The dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) was completed by eight affected subjects and indicated a moderate handicap in two of them (aged 77 and 70). Vestibular examinations (n = 4) showed abnormalities, particularly in otolith function. In conclusion, we identified a novel WFS1 variant that co-segregates with DFNA6/14/38 in this family. We found indications of mild vestibular dysfunction, although it is uncertain whether this is related to the identified WFS1 variant or is an incidental finding. We would like to emphasize that conventional neonatal hearing screening programs are not sensitive to HL in DFNA6/14/38 patients, because high-frequency hearing thresholds are initially preserved. Therefore, we suggest screening newborns in DFNA6/14/38 families with more frequency-specific methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedwig M. Velde
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Xanne J. J. Huizenga
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Helger G. Yntema
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- The Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke Haer-Wigman
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- The Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Andy J. Beynon
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Oostrik
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoert A. H. Pegge
- Department of Medical Imaging, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hannie Kremer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Cris P. Lanting
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald J. E. Pennings
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Knockdown and mutation of Pou4f3 gene mutation promotes pyroptosis of cochleae in cisplatin-induced deafness mice by NLRP3/caspase-3/GSDME pathway. Toxicology 2022; 482:153368. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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A Missense POU4F3 Variant Associated with Autosomal Dominant Midfrequency Hearing Loss Alters Subnuclear Localization and Transcriptional Capabilities. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5574136. [PMID: 34250087 PMCID: PMC8238589 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5574136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background The pathogenic variant, POU class 4 transcription factor 3 (POU4F3), is reported to cause autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL). Previously, we have examined a four-generation midfrequency sensorineural hearing loss (MFSNHL) family (no. 6126) and established POU4F3 c.602T>C (p.Leu201Pro) as a potential disease-causing variant. Objectives We explored the structural and functional alterations that the c.602T>C (p.Leu201Pro) variant enforces on the POU4F3 protein. Methods We utilized wild-type (WT) and mutant (MUT) POU4F3 c.602T>C plasmid incorporation into HeLa cells to assess functional changes, by immunofluorescence and luciferase assays. To predict protein structural alterations in the MUT versus WT POU4F3, we also generated 3D structures to compare both types of POU4F3 proteins. Results The WT POU4F3 is ubiquitously present in the nucleus, whereas the MUT form of POU4F3 exhibits a more restricted nuclear presence. This finding is different from other publications, which report a cytoplasmic localization of the MUT POU4F3. We also demonstrated that, as opposed to WT POU4F3, the MUT POU4F3 had 40% reduced luciferase activity. Conclusions The reduced nuclear presence, combined with reduced transcriptional activity, suggests that the POU4F3 c.602T>C variant alters cellular activity and may contribute to the pathogenicity of POU4F3-related hearing loss. It, also, provides more evidence of the pathophysiological characteristics of MFSNHL.
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Miyake K, Shirai K, Nishiyama N, Kawaguchi S, Ohta Y, Kawano A, Usami S, Kitano T, Tsukahara K. Cochlear implantation in a patient with a POU4F3 mutation. Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:298-303. [PMID: 33489177 PMCID: PMC7813023 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.3520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cochlear implants (CIs) are generally considered useful in the treatment of hereditary hearing loss with progressive deafness. Early CI can be beneficial for maintaining social activities in POU4F3 mutation patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keitaro Miyake
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokyo Medical UniversityShinjuku‐kuJapan
| | - Kyoko Shirai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokyo Medical UniversityShinjuku‐kuJapan
| | - Nobuhiro Nishiyama
- Department of Clinical OncologyTokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical CenterInashiki‐gunJapan
| | - Sachie Kawaguchi
- Department of OtorhinolaryngologyYokohama Asahi Chuo General HospitalYokohama‐shiJapan
| | - Yoko Ohta
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokyo Medical UniversityShinjuku‐kuJapan
| | - Atsushi Kawano
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokyo Medical UniversityShinjuku‐kuJapan
| | - Shin‐ichi Usami
- Department of Hearing Implant SciencesShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumoto‐shiJapan
| | - Tomohiro Kitano
- Department of OtorhinolaryngologyShinshu University School of MedicineMatsumoto‐shiJapan
| | - Kiyoaki Tsukahara
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck SurgeryTokyo Medical UniversityShinjuku‐kuJapan
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Zhu GJ, Gong S, Ma DB, Tao T, He WQ, Zhang L, Wang F, Qian XY, Zhou H, Fan C, Wang P, Chen X, Zhao W, Sun J, Chen H, Wang Y, Gao X, Zuo J, Zhu MS, Gao X, Wan G. Aldh inhibitor restores auditory function in a mouse model of human deafness. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1009040. [PMID: 32970669 PMCID: PMC7553308 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic hearing loss is a common health problem with no effective therapy currently available. DFNA15, caused by mutations of the transcription factor POU4F3, is one of the most common forms of autosomal dominant non-syndromic deafness. In this study, we established a novel mouse model of the human DFNA15 deafness, with a Pou4f3 gene mutation (Pou4f3Δ) identical to that found in a familial case of DFNA15. The Pou4f3(Δ/+) mice suffered progressive deafness in a similar manner to the DFNA15 patients. Hair cells in the Pou4f3(Δ/+) cochlea displayed significant stereociliary and mitochondrial pathologies, with apparent loss of outer hair cells. Progression of hearing and outer hair cell loss of the Pou4f3(Δ/+) mice was significantly modified by other genetic and environmental factors. Using Pou4f3(-/+) heterozygous knockout mice, we also showed that DFNA15 is likely caused by haploinsufficiency of the Pou4f3 gene. Importantly, inhibition of retinoic acid signaling by the aldehyde dehydrogenase (Aldh) and retinoic acid receptor inhibitors promoted Pou4f3 expression in the cochlear tissue and suppressed the progression of hearing loss in the mutant mice. These data demonstrate Pou4f3 haploinsufficiency as the main underlying cause of human DFNA15 deafness and highlight the therapeutic potential of Aldh inhibitors for treatment of progressive hearing loss. More than 50% of deafness cases are due to genetic defects with no treatment available. DFNA15, caused by mutations of the transcription factor POU4F3, is one of the most common types of autosomal dominant non-syndromic deafness. Here, we established a novel mouse model with the exact Pou4f3 mutation identified in human patients. The mutant mouse display similar auditory pathophysiology as human patients and exhibit multiple hair cell abnormalities. The onset and severity of hearing loss in the mouse model is highly modifiable to environmental factors, such as aging, noise exposure or genetic backgrounds. Using a new knockout mouse model, we found Pou4f3 haploinsufficiency as the underlying mechanism of human DFNA15. Importantly, we identified Aldh inhibitor as a potent small molecule for upregulation of Pou4f3 and treatment of hearing loss in the mutant mouse. The identification of Aldh inhibitor for treatment of DFNA15 deafness represents a major advance in the unmet medical need for this common form of progressive hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Jie Zhu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sihao Gong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Deng-Bin Ma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Tao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei-Qi He
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Cambridge-Suda (CAM-SU) Genomic Resource Center, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Linqing Zhang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Yun Qian
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Han Zhou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chi Fan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pei Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huaqun Chen
- College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Nanjing MuCyte Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Zuo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Creighton University, United States of America
| | - Min-Sheng Zhu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (MSZ); (XG); (GW)
| | - Xia Gao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (MSZ); (XG); (GW)
| | - Guoqiang Wan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Provincial Key Discipline of the affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University and Model Animal Research Center, MOE Key Laboratory of Model Animal for Disease Studies, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (MSZ); (XG); (GW)
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10
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Zhu J, Zhou X, Huang X, Du Z. Crystal structure of a 123 amino acids dimerization domain of Drosophila Caprin. Proteins 2020; 88:1701-1711. [PMID: 32725918 DOI: 10.1002/prot.25987] [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: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein (Caprin) proteins assume diverse functions in many important biological processes, including synaptic plasticity, stress response, innate immune response, and cellular proliferation. The Caprin family members are characterized by the presence of a highly conserved homologous region (HR1) at the N-terminus and arginine-glycine-rich (RGG) boxes at the C-terminus. We had previously determined the crystal structures of human Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 fragments corresponding to the C-terminal 2/3 of HR1. Both fragments adopt homodimeric structures. Based on sequence conservation, we speculated that all Caprin proteins should have similar homodimeric structures. Here we report the crystal structure of a fragment (residues 187-309) of Drosophila melanogaster Caprin (dCaprin). The dCaprin fragment adopts an all α-helical fold which self-associates to form a homodimer. The overall dCaprin homodimeric structure is similar to the Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 homodimeric structures. Most of the amino acids residues mediating homodimerization in the three structures are conserved among all Caprin family members. These structural and sequence data suggest that homodimerization through a conserved dimerization domain is a common structural feature of the Caprin protein family. The dimeric structures may also be involved in interaction with Caprin partners. Dimer formation creates a V-shape concave surface that may serve as a protein binding groove. The concave surfaces in Caprin-1, Caprin-2, and dCaprin should have different and specific binding partners due to the large difference in electrostatic potentials. We propose the existence of a multi-functional domain in Caprin proteins, which not only mediate homodimerization but also involve in interaction with specific Caprin partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Zhu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Xia Zhou
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Xiaolan Huang
- Department of Computer Science, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhihua Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
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11
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Four Novel Variants in POU4F3 Cause Autosomal Dominant Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss. Neural Plast 2020; 2020:6137083. [PMID: 32684921 PMCID: PMC7349627 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6137083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hereditary hearing loss is one of the most common sensory disabilities worldwide. Mutation of POU domain class 4 transcription factor 3 (POU4F3) is considered the pathogenic cause of autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL), designated as autosomal dominant nonsyndromic deafness 15. In this study, four novel variants in POU4F3, c.696G>T (p.Glu232Asp), c.325C>T (p.His109Tyr), c.635T>C (p.Leu212Pro), and c.183delG (p.Ala62Argfs∗22), were identified in four different Chinese families with ADNSHL by targeted next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Based on the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines, c.183delG (p.Ala62Argfs∗22) is classified as a pathogenic variant, c.696G>T (p.Glu232Asp) and c.635T>C (p.Leu212Pro) are classified as likely pathogenic variants, and c.325C>T (p.His109Tyr) is classified as a variant of uncertain significance. Based on previous reports and the results of this study, we speculated that POU4F3 pathogenic variants are significant contributors to ADNSHL in the East Asian population. Therefore, screening of POU4F3 should be a routine examination for the diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss.
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12
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Pan X, Lu L, Cai YD. Predicting protein subcellular location with network embedding and enrichment features. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2020; 1868:140477. [PMID: 32593761 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2020.140477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The subcellular location of a protein is highly related to its function. Identifying the location of a given protein is an essential step for investigating its related problems. Traditional experimental methods can produce solid determination. However, their limitations, such as high cost and low efficiency, are evident. Computational methods provide an alternative means to address these problems. Most previous methods constantly extract features from protein sequences or structures for building prediction models. In this study, we use two types of features and combine them to construct the model. The first feature type is extracted from a protein-protein interaction network to abstract the relationship between the encoded protein and other proteins. The second type is obtained from gene ontology and biological pathways to indicate the existing functions of the encoded protein. These features are analyzed using some feature selection methods. The final optimum features are adopted to build the model with recurrent neural network as the classification algorithm. Such model yields good performance with Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.844. A decision tree is used as a rule learning classifier to extract decision rules. Although the performance of decision rules is poor, they are valuable in revealing the molecular mechanism of proteins with different subcellular locations. The final analysis confirms the reliability of the extracted rules. The source code of the propose method is freely available at https://github.com/xypan1232/rnnloc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Pan
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, People's Republic of China; Institute of Image Processing and Pattern Recognition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, 200240 Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Lu
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, NewYork, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Yu-Dong Cai
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Bai X, Zhang F, Xiao Y, Jin Y, Zheng Q, Wang H, Xu L. Identification of two novel mutations in POU4F3 gene associated with autosomal dominant hearing loss in Chinese families. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:6978-6987. [PMID: 32390314 PMCID: PMC7299729 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss is genetically heterogeneous with 47 genes identified to date, including POU4F3. In this study, by using a next‐generation sequencing panel targeting 127 deafness genes, we identified a pathogenic frameshift mutation c.704_705del and a missense mutation c.593G>A in two three‐generation Chinese families with late‐onset progressive ADNSHL, respectively. The novel mutations of POU4F3 co‐segregated with the deafness phenotype in these two families. c.704_705del caused a frameshift p.T235fs and c.593G>A caused an amino acid substitution of p.R198H. Both mutations led to an abnormal and incomplete protein structure. POU4F3 with either of the two mutations was transiently transfected into HEI‐OC1 and HEK 293 cell lines and immunofluorescence assay was performed to investigate the subcellular localization of mutated protein. The results indicated that both c.704_705del (p.T235fs) and c.593G>A (p.R198H) could impair the nuclear localization function of POU4F3. The p.R198H POU4F3 protein was detected as a weak band of the correct molecular weight, indicating that the stability of p.R198H POU4F3 differed from that of the wild‐type protein. While, the p.T235fs POU4F3 protein was expressed with a smaller molecular weight, implying this mutation result in a frameshift and premature termination of the POU4F3 protein. In summary, we report two novel mutations of POU4F3 associated with progressive ADNSHL and explored their effects on POU4F3 nuclear localization. These findings expanded the mutation spectrum of POU4F3 and provided new knowledge for the pathogenesis of POU4F3 in hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Bai
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fengguo Zhang
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yun Xiao
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yu Jin
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qingyin Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Haibo Wang
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Xu
- Otologic Center, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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14
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Xu F, Yan W, Cheng Y. Pou4f3 gene mutation promotes autophagy and apoptosis of cochlear hair cells in cisplatin-induced deafness mice. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 680:108224. [PMID: 31830441 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.108224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Pou4f3 plays an important role in the development of hair cells in the inner ear sensory epithelia. Autophagy is related to the auditory damage. However, the role and mechanism of Pou4f3 on drug-induced ototoxicity are incompletely understood. Hence, this study aimed to explore the effects of Pou4f3 on the apoptosis of cochlear hair cells (CHCs) and to explore whether autophagy was involved in this process. The cisplatin was used to produce a loss of CHCs to create a murine model of deafness. The AAV vectors were delivered into the scala media through the lateral wall. Compared with the control mice, the cisplatin-treated mice exhibited significantly enhanced apoptosis and autophagy in the cochleae, accompanied by a notably decreased Pou4f3 levels. Both mutation and knockdown of Pou4f3 promoted the apoptosis- and autophagy-related protein levels, and enhanced the cisplatin-induced levels of apoptosis- and autophagy-related proteins. Furthermore, the autophagy activator rapamycin promoted the apoptosis and autophagy in the cochlea. In addition, the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA overturned the promoting effect of Pou4f3 knockdown on the apoptosis and autophagy. Collectively, in cisplatin-induced deafness mice, the Pou4f3 gene mutation facilitated apoptosis of cochlear hair cells, at least partially, through inducing autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feilong Xu
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wenya Yan
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanjie Cheng
- Department of Otology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, People's Republic of China
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15
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Skarp S, Kanervo L, Kotimäki J, Sorri M, Männikkö M, Hietikko E. Whole-exome sequencing suggests multiallelic inheritance for childhood-onset Ménière's disease. Ann Hum Genet 2019; 83:389-396. [PMID: 31106404 DOI: 10.1111/ahg.12327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The genetic background of Ménière's disease (MD) was studied in one patient with childhood-onset MD and his grandfather affected with middle age-onset MD. Whole-exome sequencing was performed and the data were compared to 76 exomes from unrelated subjects without MD. Thirteen rare inner ear expressed variants with pathogenic estimations were observed in the case of childhood-onset MD. These variants were in genes involved in the formation of cell membranes or the cytoskeleton and in genes participating in cell death or gene-regulation pathways. His grandfather shared two of the variants: p.Y273N in HMX2 and p.L229F in TMEM55B. HMX2 p.Y273N was considered the more likely candidate for MD, as the gene is known to affect both hearing and vestibular function. The variant in the HMX2 gene may affect inner ear development and structural integrity and thus might predispose to the onset of MD. As there was a significant difference in onset between the patients, an accumulation of defects in several pathways is probably responsible for the exceptionally early onset of the disease, and the genetic etiology of childhood-onset MD is most likely multifactorial. This is the first molecular genetic study of childhood-onset MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sini Skarp
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Laura Kanervo
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jouko Kotimäki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Kainuu Central Hospital, Kajaani, Finland
| | - Martti Sorri
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Oulu University Hospital, Finland & PEDEGO Research Unit, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Minna Männikkö
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Infrastructure for Population Studies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Elina Hietikko
- Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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16
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Hereditary hearing loss; about the known and the unknown. Hear Res 2019; 376:58-68. [PMID: 30665849 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Hereditary hearing loss is both clinically and genetically very heterogeneous. Despite the large number of genes that have been associated with the condition, many cases remain unexplained. Novel gene associations with hearing loss are to be expected but also are defects of regulatory regions of the genome which are currently not routinely addressed in molecular genetic testing and research. Inheritance patterns other than monogenic might be more common than assumed in isolated cases and diagnoses might have been missed because of misinterpretation of identified DNA variants. This review summarizes current insights in the genetics of hearing loss, the next steps that are being taken in research, and their challenges. Furthermore, genotype-phenotype correlations and modifying factors are discussed as these are instrumental in counselling hearing impaired individuals and/or their family members.
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17
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Wu Y, Zhu J, Huang X, Zhou X, Du Z. Crystal structure of a dimerization domain of human Caprin-2: similar overall dimeric fold but different molecular surface properties to that of human Caprin-1. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2018; 37:3968-3975. [PMID: 30304999 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2018.1532817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Human Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 are prototypic members of the caprin (cytoplasmic activation/proliferation-associated protein) protein family. Vertebrate caprin proteins contain two highly conserved homologous regions (HR1 and HR2) and C-terminal RGG motifs. Drosophila caprin (dCaprin) shares HR1 and RGG motifs but lacks HR2. Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 have important and non-redundant functions. The detailed molecular mechanisms of their actions remain largely unknown. Previously, we determined the crystal structure of a ∼120-residue fragment of Caprin-1 within the HR1 region. The structure has a novel all α-helical fold that self-associates to form a homodimer. In this study, the crystal structure of a corresponding fragment from Caprin-2 is reported. The Caprin-2 fragment has similar protein fold and dimeric structure as that of the Caprin-1 fragment. Structural comparison reveals that the molecular interactions mediating homodimerization of Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 are largely conserved in the two systems. Structural-modelling study of the corresponding dCaprin fragment indicates that dCaprin may also adopt a similar dimeric structure. The presence of a dimerization domain within HR1 may represent an evolutionarily conserved feature of the caprin protein family. Interestingly, while Caprin-1 and Caprin-2 adopt similar overall dimeric structures, the two structures have quite different molecular surface properties. In the Caprin-1 dimeric structure, some of the surface areas are known or suspected to function as binding sites for Carpin-1-interacting proteins. The different surface properties of the caprin dimeric structures may dictate their intermolecular interaction with specific protein partners. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wu
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale , IL , USA
| | - Jiang Zhu
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale , IL , USA
| | - Xiaolan Huang
- b Department of Computer Science, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale , IL , USA
| | - Xia Zhou
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale , IL , USA
| | - Zhihua Du
- a Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale , IL , USA
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18
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A Missense Mutation in POU4F3 Causes Midfrequency Hearing Loss in a Chinese ADNSHL Family. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:5370802. [PMID: 29850532 PMCID: PMC5904794 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5370802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary nonsyndromic hearing loss is extremely heterogeneous. Mutations in the POU class 4 transcription factor 3 (POU4F3) are known to cause autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss linked to the loci of DFNA15. In this study, we describe a pathogenic missense mutation in POU4F3 in a four-generation Chinese family (6126) with midfrequency, progressive, and postlingual autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL). By combining targeted capture of 129 known deafness genes, next-generation sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis, we identified POU4F3 c.602T>C (p.Leu201Pro) as the disease-causing variant. This variant cosegregated with hearing loss in other family members but was not detected in 580 normal controls or the ExAC database and could be classified as a “pathogenic variant” according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. We conclude that POU4F3 c.602T>C (p.Leu201Pro) is related to midfrequency hearing loss in this family. Routine examination of POU4F3 is necessary for the genetic diagnosis of midfrequency hearing loss.
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19
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Ma Z, Xia W, Liu F, Ma J, Sun S, Zhang J, Jiang N, Wang X, Hu J, Ma D. SLC44A4 mutation causes autosomal dominant hereditary postlingual non-syndromic mid-frequency hearing loss. Hum Mol Genet 2017; 26:383-394. [PMID: 28013291 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddw394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical, genetic, and functional investigations were performed to identify the causative mutation in a distinctive Chinese family with postlingual non-syndromic mid-frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Whole-exome sequencing revealed SLC44A4, which encodes the choline transport protein, as the pathogenic gene in this family. In the zebrafish model, downregulation of slc44a4 using morpholinos led to significant abnormalities in the zebrafish inner ear and lateral line neuromasts and contributed, to some extent, to disabilities in hearing and balance. SH-SY5Y cells transfected with SLC44A4 showed higher choline uptake and acetylcholine release than that of cells transfected with mutant SLC44A4. We concluded that mutation of SLC44A4 may cause defects in the Choline- acetylcholine system, which is crucial to the efferent innervation of hair cells in the olivocochlear bundle for the maintenance of physiological function of outer hair cells and the protection of hair cells from acoustic injury, leading to hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxin Ma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjun Xia
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Jing Ma
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Shaoyang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Jin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Nan Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Xu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and
| | - Jiongjiong Hu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China
| | - Duan Ma
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China and.,Children's Hospital, Fudan University, 200032, People's Republic of China
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20
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Lin YH, Lin YH, Lu YC, Liu TC, Chen CY, Hsu CJ, Chen PL, Wu CC. A novel missense variant in the nuclear localization signal of POU4F3 causes autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7551. [PMID: 28790396 PMCID: PMC5548901 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08236-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL) is genetically heterogeneous with more than 35 genes identified to date. Using a massively parallel sequencing panel targeting 159 deafness genes, we identified a novel missense variant of POU4F3 (c.982A>G, p.Lys328Glu) which co-segregated with the deafness phenotype in a three-generation Taiwanese family with ADNSHL. This variant could be classified as a "pathogenic variant" according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. We then performed subcellular localization experiments and confirmed that p.Lys328Glu compromised transportation of POU4F3 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. POU3F4 p.Lys328Glu was located within a bipartite nuclear localization signal (NLS), and was the first missense variant in bipartite NLS of POU4F3 validated in functional studies. These findings expanded the mutation spectrum of POU4F3 and provided insight into the pathogenesis associated with aberrant POU4F3 localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Hung Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Lin
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chang Lu
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Chen Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yu Chen
- Department of Bio-Industrial Mechatronics Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Jen Hsu
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Tzu-Chi Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Lung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Medical Genomics and Proteomics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Graduate Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Chen-Chi Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Medical Genetics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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21
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Kitano T, Miyagawa M, Nishio SY, Moteki H, Oda K, Ohyama K, Miyazaki H, Hidaka H, Nakamura KI, Murata T, Matsuoka R, Ohta Y, Nishiyama N, Kumakawa K, Furutate S, Iwasaki S, Yamada T, Ohta Y, Uehara N, Noguchi Y, Usami SI. POU4F3 mutation screening in Japanese hearing loss patients: Massively parallel DNA sequencing-based analysis identified novel variants associated with autosomal dominant hearing loss. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177636. [PMID: 28545070 PMCID: PMC5435223 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A variant in a transcription factor gene, POU4F3, is responsible for autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hereditary hearing loss, DFNA15. To date, 14 variants, including a whole deletion of POU4F3, have been reported to cause HL in various ethnic groups. In the present study, genetic screening for POU4F3 variants was carried out for a large series of Japanese hearing loss (HL) patients to clarify the prevalence and clinical characteristics of DFNA15 in the Japanese population. Massively parallel DNA sequencing of 68 target candidate genes was utilized in 2,549 unrelated Japanese HL patients (probands) to identify genomic variations responsible for HL. The detailed clinical features in patients with POU4F3 variants were collected from medical charts and analyzed. Novel 12 POU4F3 likely pathogenic variants (six missense variants, three frameshift variants, and three nonsense variants) were successfully identified in 15 probands (2.5%) among 602 families exhibiting autosomal dominant HL, whereas no variants were detected in the other 1,947 probands with autosomal recessive or inheritance pattern unknown HL. To obtain the audiovestibular configuration of the patients harboring POU4F3 variants, we collected audiograms and vestibular symptoms of the probands and their affected family members. Audiovestibular phenotypes in a total of 24 individuals from the 15 families possessing variants were characterized by progressive HL, with a large variation in the onset age and severity with or without vestibular symptoms observed. Pure-tone audiograms indicated the most prevalent configuration as mid-frequency HL type followed by high-frequency HL type, with asymmetry observed in approximately 20% of affected individuals. Analysis of the relationship between age and pure-tone average suggested that individuals with truncating variants showed earlier onset and slower progression of HL than did those with non-truncating variants. The present study showed that variants in POU4F3 were a common cause of autosomal dominant HL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Kitano
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Maiko Miyagawa
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Department of Hearing Implant Sciences, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Shin-ya Nishio
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Department of Hearing Implant Sciences, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Hideaki Moteki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Department of Hearing Implant Sciences, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Oda
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Tohoku Rosai Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kenji Ohyama
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Tohoku Rosai Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Miyazaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Hidaka
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Nakamura
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
| | - Takaaki Murata
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Rina Matsuoka
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Ohta
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhiro Nishiyama
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kozo Kumakawa
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sakiko Furutate
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Iwasaki
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, International University of Health and Welfare, Mita Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takechiyo Yamada
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Yumi Ohta
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Natsumi Uehara
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Noguchi
- Department of Hearing Implant Sciences, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Shin-ichi Usami
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Department of Hearing Implant Sciences, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- * E-mail:
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22
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Mutation in the Hair Cell Specific Gene POU4F3 Is a Common Cause for Autosomal Dominant Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss in Chinese Hans. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:9890827. [PMID: 28053790 PMCID: PMC5178374 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9890827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL) is extremely heterogeneous. So far the genetic etiological contribution of the gene POU4F3 associated with ADNSHL has been rarely reported. In our previous study, a c.603_604delGG mutation in the hair cell specific gene POU4F3 has been identified as the pathogenic cause in one of the seven Chinese Han ADNSHL families. In the present study, we performed targeted next-generation sequencing of 144 known deafness genes in another nine Chinese Han ADNSHL families and identified two more novel mutations in POU4F3, p.Leu311Pro and c.120+1G>C, as the pathogenic cause. Clinical characterization of the affected individuals in these three families showed that the three POU4F3 mutations may lead to progressive hearing loss with variable ages of onset and degrees of severity. Our results suggested that mutations in POU4F3 are a relatively common cause (3/16) for ADNSHL in Chinese Hans, which should be routinely screened in such cases during genetic testing.
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23
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A Novel Nonsense Mutation of POU4F3 Gene Causes Autosomal Dominant Hearing Loss. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:1512831. [PMID: 27999687 PMCID: PMC5143711 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1512831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
POU4F3 gene encodes a transcription factor which plays an essential role in the maturation and maintenance of hair cells in cochlea and vestibular system. Several mutations of POU4F3 have been reported to cause autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss in recent years. In this study, we describe a pathogenic nonsense mutation located in POU4F3 in a four-generation Chinese family. Target region capture sequencing was performed to search for the candidate mutations from 81 genes related to nonsyndromic hearing loss in this family. A novel nonsense mutation of POU4F3, c.337C>T (p. Gln113⁎), was identified in a Chinese family characterized by late-onset progressive nonsyndromic hearing loss. The novel mutation cosegregated with hearing loss in this family and was absent in 200 ethnicity-matched controls. The mutation led to a stop codon and thus a truncated protein with no functional domains remained. Transient transfection and immunofluorescence assay revealed that the subcellular localization of the truncated protein differed markedly from normal protein, which could be the underlying reason for complete loss of its normal function. Here, we report the first nonsense mutation of POU4F3 associated with progressive hearing loss and explored the possible underlying mechanism. Routine examination of POU4F3 is necessary for the genetic diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss in the future.
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24
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Cai XZ, Li Y, Xia L, Peng Y, He CF, Jiang L, Feng Y, Xia K, Liu XZ, Mei LY, Hu ZM. Exome sequencing identifies POU4F3 as the causative gene for a large Chinese family with non-syndromic hearing loss. J Hum Genet 2016; 62:317-320. [PMID: 27535032 DOI: 10.1038/jhg.2016.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Hearing impairment, or deafness (in its most severe form), is one of the most common human sensory disorders. There have been several reports of autosomal dominant mutations in the POU4F3 gene, which is associated with non-syndromic hearing loss. In this study, we identified a novel heterozygous mutation (c.602delT, p.L201fs) in the gene POU4F3 by taking advantage of whole-exome sequencing, which was validated by Sanger sequencing and completely co-segregated within a large hearing impaired Chinese family. We have focused on this pedigree since 2002, and we have mapped a deafness locus named DFNA42 (which has been renamed DFNA52, OMIM entry 607683) via a genome-wide scan. Furthermore, we analyzed this mutational variant and found that it was located at the beginning of the first functional domain of POU4F3, which could theoretically impair the function of POU4F3. We have identified a novel frameshift mutation in the POU4F3 gene. Further functional studies of variants of this specific gene are needed to illustrate the pathogenic mechanism(s) that underlie hearing impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang Cai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lu Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yu Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chu Feng He
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lu Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yong Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Kun Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Biological Science and Technology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xue Zhong Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ling Yun Mei
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zheng Mao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Biological Science and Technology, Central South University, Changsha, China
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25
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Genetic Variation in POU4F3 and GRHL2 Associated with Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Chinese Population: A Case-Control Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13060561. [PMID: 27271650 PMCID: PMC4924018 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13060561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is an important occupational disease worldwide resulting from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The purpose of this study was to examine whether genetic variations in POU4F3 and GRHL2 may influence susceptibility to NIHL in the Chinese population. A matched case-control study was carried out among 293 hearing loss individuals and 293 normal hearing workers drawn from a population of 3790 noise-exposed workers. Ten single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in POU4F3 and GRHL2 were selected and genotyped. Logistic regression was performed to analyze the main effects of SNPs and the interactions between noise exposure and SNPs. Moreover, the interactions between predictor haplotypes and noise exposure were also analyzed. Analysis revealed that the CC genotype of rs1981361 in the GRHL2 gene was associated with a higher risk of NIHL (adjusted OR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.08–2.32, p = 0.018). Additionally, the GG genotype of rs3735715 in the GRHL2 gene was also a risk genotype (adjusted OR = 1.48; 95% CI: 1.01–2.19, p = 0.046). Significant interactions were found between rs3735715, rs1981361 (GRHL2), rs1368402 as well as rs891969 (POU4F3) and noise exposure in the high-level exposure groups. Furthermore, the protective haplotype CA in the POU4F3 gene and the risk haplotype GCCG in the GRHL2 gene were identified combined with noise exposure. These results indicated that GRHL2 might be an NIHL susceptibility gene, but the effect of POU4F3 on NIHL could only be detected when taking noise exposure into account, and their effects were enhanced by higher levels of noise exposure. However, the differences were not significant after the Bonferroni correction was applied. These results should be seen as suggestive.
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26
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Wu Y, Zhu J, Huang X, Du Z. Crystal structure of a dimerization domain of human Caprin-1: insights into the assembly of an evolutionarily conserved ribonucleoprotein complex consisting of Caprin-1, FMRP and G3BP1. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2016; 72:718-27. [PMID: 27303792 PMCID: PMC4908866 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798316004903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Caprin-1 plays roles in many important biological processes, including cellular proliferation, innate immune response, stress response and synaptic plasticity. Caprin-1 has been implicated in several human diseases, including osteosarcoma, breast cancer, viral infection, hearing loss and neurodegenerative disorders. The functions of Caprin-1 depend on its molecular-interaction network. Direct interactions have been established between Caprin-1 and the fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), Ras GAP-activating protein-binding protein 1 (G3BP1) and the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) core protein. Here, crystal structures of a fragment (residues 132-251) of Caprin-1, which adopts a novel all-α-helical fold and mediates homodimerization through a substantial interface, are reported. Homodimerization creates a large and highly negatively charged concave surface suggestive of a protein-binding groove. The FMRP-interacting sequence motif forms an integral α-helix in the dimeric Caprin-1 structure in such a way that the binding of FMRP would not disrupt the homodimerization of Caprin-1. Based on insights from the structures and existing biochemical data, the existence of an evolutionarily conserved ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex consisting of Caprin-1, FMRP and G3BP1 is proposed. The JEV core protein may bind Caprin-1 at the negatively charged putative protein-binding groove and an adjacent E-rich sequence to hijack the RNP complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Jiang Zhu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Xiaolan Huang
- Department of Computer Science, Southern Illinois University, 1000 Faner Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Zhihua Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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27
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Ikeda R, Pak K, Chavez E, Ryan AF. Transcription factors with conserved binding sites near ATOH1 on the POU4F3 gene enhance the induction of cochlear hair cells. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 51:672-84. [PMID: 25015561 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-014-8801-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Overexpression of the transcription factor (TF) ATOH1 is known to induce the transformation of nonsensory cells in the organ of Corti into hair cells (HCs). Evaluating DNA 5Œ to the coding sequence of the pou4f3 gene, a target of ATOH1 in HCs, we identified in three regions containing clustered binding sites for ATOH1 and several other TFs that are expressed in developing inner ear sensory epithelia at the time of HC specification. These regions and sites are highly conserved across evolutionarily distant mammalian species. To test the hypothesis that the identified TFs act in combination to regulate the pou4f3 gene, we transfected by electroporation neonatal cochlear sensory epithelium from mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of an 8.5-kb 5' pou4f3 genomic fragment. Plasmids encoding 21 TFs c-transfected with human ATOH1 (hATOH1). Cotransfection with hETV4, hNMYC, or hETS2 produced significantly more pou4f3/GFP and myosin 7A-positive nonsensory cells than hATOH1 alone. Co-transfection of hATOH1 with hHES1, hHES5, or hNEUROD1 reduced the effects of hATOH1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)of DNA from an inner ear cell line transfected with hNMYC,hETV4, or hETS2 revealed binding to a conserved region immediately proximal to the coding sequence. ChIP similarly revealed binding of hGATA3, hNMYC, and hTFE2 to a region several kilobases distal to the coding sequence, which we have previously shown to bind ATOH1. The results suggest that ATOH1 acts in concert with a subset of other TFs to directly regulate the pou4f3 gene and more broadly to regulate the HC phenotype.
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28
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Kelly KM, Lalwani AK. On the Distant Horizon--Medical Therapy for Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2015; 48:1149-65. [PMID: 26409822 DOI: 10.1016/j.otc.2015.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most common sensory deficit in developed societies. Hearing impairment in children, particularly of prelingual onset, has been shown to negatively affect educational achievement, future employment and earnings, and even life expectancy. Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), which refers to defects within the cochlea or auditory nerve itself, far outweighs conductive causes for permanent hearing loss in both children and adults. The causes of SNHL in children are heterogeneous, including both congenital and acquired causes. This article identifies potential mechanisms of intervention both at the level of the hair cell and the spiral ganglion neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Kelly
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hinds Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Anil K Lalwani
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, Harkness Pavilion, 180 Fort Washington Avenue, Floor 7, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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29
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Wu Y, Zhu J, Huang X, Du Z. Bacterial expression and preliminary crystallographic studies of a 149-residue fragment of human Caprin-1. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2015; 71:324-9. [PMID: 25760709 PMCID: PMC4356310 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x15002642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 02/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Caprin-1 is an RNA-binding protein which plays critical roles in several important biological processes, including cellular proliferation, the interferon-mediated antiviral innate immune response, the maintenance of synaptic plasticity and the formation of RNA stress granules. Caprin-1 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several human diseases, including osteosarcoma, breast cancer, viral infections, hearing loss and neurodegenerative disorders. Despite the emerging biological and physiopathological significance of Caprin-1, no structural information is available for this protein. Moreover, Caprin-1 does not have sequence similarity to any other protein with a known structure. It is therefore expected that structural studies will play a particularly crucial role in revealing the functional mechanisms of Caprin-1. Here, a protein fragment of human Caprin-1 consisting of residues 112-260 was expressed, purified and crystallized. Native and Se-SAD data sets were collected to resolutions to 2.05 and 2.65 Å, respectively, in different space groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Wu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Jiang Zhu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Xiaolan Huang
- Department of Computer Science, Southern Illinois University, 1000 Faner Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
| | - Zhihua Du
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Southern Illinois University, 1245 Lincoln Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA
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30
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Wei Q, Zhu H, Qian X, Chen Z, Yao J, Lu Y, Cao X, Xing G. Targeted genomic capture and massively parallel sequencing to identify novel variants causing Chinese hereditary hearing loss. J Transl Med 2014; 12:311. [PMID: 25388789 PMCID: PMC4234825 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-014-0311-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hereditary hearing loss is genetically heterogeneous, and hundreds of mutations in than 60 genes are involved in this disease. Therefore, it is difficult to identify the causative gene mutations involved. In this study, we combined targeted genomic capture and massively parallel sequencing (MPS) to address this issue. Methods Using targeted genomic capture and MPS, 104 genes and three microRNA regions were selected and simultaneously sequenced in 23 unrelated probands of Chinese families with nonsyndromic hearing loss. The results were validated by Sanger sequencing for all available members of the probands’ families. To analyze the possible pathogenic functional effects of the variants, three types of prediction programs (Mutation Taster, PROVEAN and SIFT) were used. A total of 195 healthy Chinese Han individuals were compared as controls to verify the novel causative mutations. Results Of the 23 probands, six had mutations in DFNA genes [WFS1 (n = 2), COCH, ACTG1, TMC1, and POU4F3] known to cause autosomal dominant nonsyndromic hearing loss. These included one novel in-frame indel mutation, three novel missense mutations and two reported missense mutations. Furthermore, one proband from a family with recessive DFNB carried two monoallelic mutations in the GJB2 and USH2A genes. All of these mutations co-segregated with the hearing loss phenotype in 36 affected individuals from 7 families and were predicted to be pathogenic. Conclusions Mutations in uncommon deafness genes contribute to a portion of nonsyndromic deafness cases. In the future, critical gene mutations may be accurately and quickly identified in families with hereditary hearing loss by targeted genomic capture and MPS. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12967-014-0311-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinjun Wei
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Science, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Hongmei Zhu
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Xuli Qian
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Science, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Science, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Yajie Lu
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Science, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Xin Cao
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Basic Medical Science, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
| | - Guangqian Xing
- Department of Otolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, PR China.
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31
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Tornari C, Towers ER, Gale JE, Dawson SJ. Regulation of the orphan nuclear receptor Nr2f2 by the DFNA15 deafness gene Pou4f3. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112247. [PMID: 25372459 PMCID: PMC4221282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Hair cells are the mechanotransducing cells of the inner ear that are essential for hearing and balance. POU4F3--a POU-domain transcription factor selectively expressed by these cells--has been shown to be essential for hair cell differentiation and survival in mice and its mutation in humans underlies late-onset progressive hearing loss (DFNA15). The downstream targets of POU4F3 are required for hair cell differentiation and survival. We aimed to identify such targets in order to elucidate the molecular pathways involved in hair cell production and maintenance. The orphan thyroid nuclear receptor Nr2f2 was identified as a POU4F3 target using a subtractive hybridization strategy and EMSA analysis showed that POU4F3 binds to two sites in the Nr2f2 5' flanking region. These sites were shown to be required for POU4F3 activation as their mutation leads to a reduction in the response of an Nr2f2 5' flanking region reporter construct to POU4F3. Immunocytochemistry was carried out in the developing and adult inner ear in order to investigate the relevance of this interaction in hearing. NR2F2 expression in the postnatal mouse organ of Corti was shown to be detectable in all sensory epithelia examined and characterised. These data demonstrate that Nr2f2 is a direct target of POU4F3 in vitro and that this regulatory relationship may be relevant to hair cell development and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emily R. Towers
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan E. Gale
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sally J. Dawson
- UCL Ear Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Freitas ÉL, Oiticica J, Silva AG, Bittar RSM, Rosenberg C, Mingroni-Netto RC. Deletion of the entire POU4F3 gene in a familial case of autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss. Eur J Med Genet 2014; 57:125-8. [PMID: 24556497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2014.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 20% of cases, hereditary non-syndromic hearing loss has an autosomal dominant inheritance (ADNSHL). To date, more than 50 loci for ADNSHL have been mapped to different chromosomal regions. In order to verify whether genomic alterations contribute to the hearing loss etiology and to search for novel deafness candidate loci, we investigated probands from families with ADNSHL by oligonucleotide array-CGH. A deletion in the 5q32 region encompassing only one gene, POU4F3, which corresponds to DFNA15, was detected in one family. POU4F3 protein has an important role in the maturation, differentiation and survival of cochlear hair cells. Defects in these cells may therefore explain sensorineural hearing loss. Mutations in this gene have already been associated with autosomal dominant hearing loss but this is the first description of a germline POUF4F3 deletion associated with hearing impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Érika L Freitas
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Jeanne Oiticica
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda G Silva
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roseli S M Bittar
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carla Rosenberg
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina C Mingroni-Netto
- Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Kim HJ, Won HH, Park KJ, Hong SH, Ki CS, Cho SS, Venselaar H, Vriend G, Kim JW. SNP linkage analysis and whole exome sequencing identify a novel POU4F3 mutation in autosomal dominant late-onset nonsyndromic hearing loss (DFNA15). PLoS One 2013; 8:e79063. [PMID: 24260153 PMCID: PMC3832514 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (AD-NSHL) is one of the most common genetic diseases in human and is well-known for the considerable genetic heterogeneity. In this study, we utilized whole exome sequencing (WES) and linkage analysis for direct genetic diagnosis in AD-NSHL. The Korean family had typical AD-NSHL running over 6 generations. Linkage analysis was performed by using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip and pinpointed a genomic region on 5q31 with a significant linkage signal. Sequential filtering of variants obtained from WES, application of the linkage region, bioinformatic analyses, and Sanger sequencing validation identified a novel missense mutation Arg326Lys (c.977G>A) in the POU homeodomain of the POU4F3 gene as the candidate disease-causing mutation in the family. POU4F3 is a known disease gene causing AD-HSLH (DFNA15) described in 5 unrelated families until now each with a unique mutation. Arg326Lys was the first missense mutation affecting the 3(rd) alpha helix of the POU homeodomain harboring a bipartite nuclear localization signal sequence. The phenotype findings in our family further supported previously noted intrafamilial and interfamilial variability of DFNA15. This study demonstrated that WES in combination with linkage analysis utilizing bi-allelic SNP markers successfully identified the disease locus and causative mutation in AD-NSHL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jin Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hong-Hee Won
- Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Jin Park
- Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Hwa Hong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang-Seok Ki
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Sun Cho
- Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hanka Venselaar
- Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Vriend
- Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jong-Won Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Mutai H, Suzuki N, Shimizu A, Torii C, Namba K, Morimoto N, Kudoh J, Kaga K, Kosaki K, Matsunaga T. Diverse spectrum of rare deafness genes underlies early-childhood hearing loss in Japanese patients: a cross-sectional, multi-center next-generation sequencing study. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2013; 8:172. [PMID: 24164807 PMCID: PMC4231469 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-8-172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic tests for hereditary hearing loss inform clinical management of patients and can provide the first step in the development of therapeutics. However, comprehensive genetic tests for deafness genes by Sanger sequencing is extremely expensive and time-consuming. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology is advantageous for genetic diagnosis of heterogeneous diseases that involve numerous causative genes. Methods Genomic DNA samples from 58 subjects with hearing loss from 15 unrelated Japanese families were subjected to NGS to identify the genetic causes of hearing loss. Subjects did not have pathogenic GJB2 mutations (the gene most often associated with inherited hearing loss), mitochondrial m.1555A>G or 3243A>G mutations, enlarged vestibular aqueduct, or auditory neuropathy. Clinical features of subjects were obtained from medical records. Genomic DNA was subjected to a custom-designed SureSelect Target Enrichment System to capture coding exons and proximal flanking intronic sequences of 84 genes responsible for nonsyndromic or syndromic hearing loss, and DNA was sequenced by Illumina GAIIx (paired-end read). The sequences were mapped and quality-checked using the programs BWA, Novoalign, Picard, and GATK, and analyzed by Avadis NGS. Results Candidate genes were identified in 7 of the 15 families. These genes were ACTG1, DFNA5, POU4F3, SLC26A5, SIX1, MYO7A, CDH23, PCDH15, and USH2A, suggesting that a variety of genes underlie early-childhood hearing loss in Japanese patients. Mutations in Usher syndrome-related genes were detected in three families, including one double heterozygous mutation of CDH23 and PCDH15. Conclusion Targeted NGS analysis revealed a diverse spectrum of rare deafness genes in Japanese subjects and underscores implications for efficient genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tatsuo Matsunaga
- Laboratory of Auditory Disorders, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro, Tokyo 152-8902, Japan.
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van Beelen E, Schraders M, Huygen P, Oostrik J, Plantinga R, van Drunen W, Collin R, Kooper D, Pennings R, Cremers C, Kremer H, Kunst H. Clinical aspects of an autosomal dominantly inherited hearing impairment linked to the DFNA60 locus on chromosome 2q23.1–2q23.3. Hear Res 2013; 300:10-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2012] [Revised: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Fukui H, Wong HT, Beyer LA, Case BG, Swiderski DL, Di Polo A, Ryan AF, Raphael Y. BDNF gene therapy induces auditory nerve survival and fiber sprouting in deaf Pou4f3 mutant mice. Sci Rep 2012; 2:838. [PMID: 23150788 PMCID: PMC3495341 DOI: 10.1038/srep00838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Current therapy for patients with hereditary absence of cochlear hair cells, who have severe or profound deafness, is restricted to cochlear implantation, a procedure that requires survival of the auditory nerve. Mouse mutations that serve as models for genetic deafness can be utilized for developing and enhancing therapies for hereditary deafness. A mouse with Pou4f3 loss of function has no hair cells and a subsequent, progressive degeneration of auditory neurons. Here we tested the influence of neurotrophin gene therapy on auditory nerve survival and peripheral sprouting in Pou4f3 mouse ears. BDNF gene transfer enhanced preservation of auditory neurons compared to control ears, in which nearly all neurons degenerated. Surviving neurons in treated ears exhibited pronounced sprouting of nerve fibers into the auditory epithelium, despite the absence of hair cells. This enhanced nerve survival and regenerative sprouting may improve the outcome of cochlear implant therapy in patients with hereditary deafness.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Fukui
- Kresge Hearing Research Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5648, USA
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TFE2 and GATA3 enhance induction of POU4F3 and myosin VIIa positive cells in nonsensory cochlear epithelium by ATOH1. Dev Biol 2012; 372:68-80. [PMID: 22985730 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 08/01/2012] [Accepted: 09/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) can regulate different sets of genes to determine specific cell types by means of combinatorial codes. We previously identified closely-spaced TF binding motifs located 8.2-8.5 kb 5' to the ATG of the murine Pou4f3 gene, a gene required for late hair cell (HC) differentiation and survival. These motifs, 100% conserved among four mammalian species, include a cluster of E-boxes preferred by TCF3/ATOH1 heterodimers as well as motifs for GATA factors and SP1. We hypothesized that these factors might interact to regulate the Pou4f3 gene and possibly induce a HC phenotype in non-sensory cells of the cochlea. Cochlear sensory epithelium explants were prepared from postnatal day 1.5 transgenic mice in which expression of GFP is driven by 8.5 kb of Pou4f3 5' genomic DNA (Pou4f3/GFP). Electroporation was used to transfect cells of the greater epithelial ridge with multiple plasmids encoding human ATOH1 (hATOH1), hTCF3 (also known as E2A or TEF2), hGATA3, and hSP1. hATOH1 or hTCF3 alone induced Pou4f3/GFP cells but hGATA3 and hSP1 did not. hATOH1 but not hTCF3 induced conversion of greater epithelial ridge cells into Pou4f3/GFP and myosin VIIa double-positive cells. Transfection of hATOH1 in combination with hTCF3 or hGATA3 induced 2-3X more Pou4f3/GFP cells, and similarly enhanced Pou4f3/GFP and myosin VIIa double-positive cells, when compared to hATOH1 alone. Triple or quadruple TF combinations were generally not more effective than double TF combinations except in the middle turn, where co-transfection of hATOH1, hE2A, and hGATA3 was more effective than hATOH1 plus either hTCF3 or hGATA3. The results demonstrate that TFs can cooperate in regulation of the Pou4f3 gene and in the induction of at least one other element of a HC phenotype. Our data further indicate that combinations of TFs can be more effective than individual TFs in the inner ear.
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Baek JI, Oh SK, Kim DB, Choi SY, Kim UK, Lee KY, Lee SH. Targeted massive parallel sequencing: the effective detection of novel causative mutations associated with hearing loss in small families. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2012; 7:60. [PMID: 22938506 PMCID: PMC3495859 DOI: 10.1186/1750-1172-7-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hereditary hearing loss is one of the most common heterogeneous disorders, and genetic variants that can cause hearing loss have been identified in over sixty genes. Most of these hearing loss genes have been detected using classical genetic methods, typically starting with linkage analysis in large families with hereditary hearing loss. However, these classical strategies are not well suited for mutation analysis in smaller families who have insufficient genetic information. Methods Eighty known hearing loss genes were selected and simultaneously sequenced by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) in 8 Korean families with autosomal dominant non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss. Results Five mutations in known hearing loss genes, including 1 nonsense and 4 missense mutations, were identified in 5 different genes (ACTG1, MYO1F, DIAPH1, POU4F3 and EYA4), and the genotypes for these mutations were consistent with the autosomal dominant inheritance pattern of hearing loss in each family. No mutational hot-spots were revealed in these Korean families. Conclusion Targeted NGS allowed for the detection of pathogenic mutations in affected individuals who were not candidates for classical genetic studies. This report is the first documenting the effective use of an NGS technique to detect pathogenic mutations that underlie hearing loss in an East Asian population. Using this NGS technique to establish a database of common mutations in Korean patients with hearing loss and further data accumulation will contribute to the early diagnosis and fundamental therapies for hereditary hearing loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-In Baek
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
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Gau SSF, Liao HM, Hong CC, Chien WH, Chen CH. Identification of two inherited copy number variants in a male with autism supports two-hit and compound heterozygosity models of autism. Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 2012; 159B:710-7. [PMID: 22778016 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.b.32074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder with complex genetic mechanism underlying its etiology. Recent studies revealed that a few single de novo copy number variants of genomic DNA (copy number variants [CNVs]) are pathogenic and causal in some sporadic cases, adding support to the hypothesis that some sporadic autism might be caused by single rare mutation with large clinical effect. In this study, we report the detection of two novel private CNVs simultaneously in a male patient with autism. These two CNVs include a microduplication of ~4.5 Mb at chromosome 4q12-13.1 that was transmitted from his mother and a microdeletion of ~1.8 Mb at 5q32 that was transmitted from his father. Several genes such as LPHN3, POU4F3, SH3RF2, and TCERG1 mapped to these two regions have psychiatric implications. However, the parents had only mild degree of attention deficit symptoms but did not demonstrate any obvious autistic symptoms or psychopathology. Our findings indicate that each of these two CNVs alone may not be pathogenic enough to cause clinical symptoms in their respective carriers, and hence they can be transmitted within each individual family. However, concomitant presence of these two CNVs might result in the clinical phenotypes of the affected patient reported here. Thus, our report of this family may represent an example to show that two hits of CNV and the presence of compound heterozygosity might be important mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Shur-Fen Gau
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Hroudova M, Vojta P, Strnad H, Krejcik Z, Ridl J, Paces J, Vlcek C, Paces V. Diversity, phylogeny and expression patterns of Pou and Six homeodomain transcription factors in hydrozoan jellyfish Craspedacusta sowerbyi. PLoS One 2012; 7:e36420. [PMID: 22558464 PMCID: PMC3340352 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0036420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Formation of all metazoan bodies is controlled by a group of selector genes including homeobox genes, highly conserved across the entire animal kingdom. The homeobox genes from Pou and Six classes are key members of the regulation cascades determining development of sensory organs, nervous system, gonads and muscles. Besides using common bilaterian models, more attention has recently been targeted at the identification and characterization of these genes within the basal metazoan phyla. Cnidaria as a diploblastic sister group to bilateria with simple and yet specialized organs are suitable models for studies on the sensory organ origin and the associated role of homeobox genes. In this work, Pou and Six homeobox genes, together with a broad range of other sensory-specific transcription factors, were identified in the transcriptome of hydrozoan jellyfish Craspedacusta sowerbyi. Phylogenetic analyses of Pou and Six proteins revealed cnidarian-specific sequence motifs and contributed to the classification of individual factors. The majority of the Craspedacusta sowerbyi Pou and Six homeobox genes are predominantly expressed in statocysts, manubrium and nerve ring, the tissues with sensory and nervous activities. The described diversity and expression patterns of Pou and Six factors in hydrozoan jellyfish highlight their evolutionarily conserved functions. This study extends the knowledge of the cnidarian genome complexity and shows that the transcriptome of hydrozoan jellyfish is generally rich in homeodomain transcription factors employed in the regulation of sensory and nervous functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miluse Hroudova
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic.
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AP-2δ is a crucial transcriptional regulator of the posterior midbrain. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23483. [PMID: 21858141 PMCID: PMC3153493 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2011] [Accepted: 07/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Ap-2 transcription factors comprise a family of 5 closely related sequence-specific DNA binding proteins that play pivotal and non-redundant roles in embryonic organogenesis. To investigate the function of Ap-2δ, wδe analyzed its expression during embryogenesis and generated Ap-2δ-deficient mice. In line with the specific expression pattern of Ap-2δ in the mesencephalic tectum and the dorsal midbrain, Ap-2δ-deficient mice failed to maintain the colliculus inferior, a derivative of the dorsal midbrain, as a consequence of increased apoptotic cell death. To identify specific Ap-2δ target genes in cells of the developing dorsal midbrain, we performed whole genome analysis of cDNA expression levels. This approach identified a set of 12 putative target genes being expressed in the developing midbrain, including the transcription factors Pitx2, Mef2c, Bhlhb4 and Pou4f3. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP) we showed that some of these genes are direct targets of Ap-2δ. Consistently, we demonstrate that Ap-2δ occupies and activates the Pou4f3 and Bhlhb4 promoters. In addition, known Pou4f3 target genes were downregulated in the posterior midbrain of Ap-2δ-deficient mice. Despite the absence of a central part of the auditory pathway, the presence of neuronal responses to sounds in the neocortex of Ap-2δ-deficient mice indicates that auditory information from the brainstem still reaches the neocortex. In summary, our data define Ap-2δ as an important transcription factor, specifying gene expression patterns required for the development of the posterior midbrain.
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Towers ER, Kelly JJ, Sud R, Gale JE, Dawson SJ. Caprin-1 is a target of the deafness gene Pou4f3 and is recruited to stress granules in cochlear hair cells in response to ototoxic damage. J Cell Sci 2011; 124:1145-55. [PMID: 21402877 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.076141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The POU4 family of transcription factors are required for survival of specific cell types in different sensory systems. Pou4f3 is essential for the survival of auditory sensory hair cells and several mutations in human POU4F3 cause hearing loss. Thus, genes regulated by Pou4f3 are likely to be essential for hair cell survival. We performed a subtractive hybridisation screen in an inner-ear-derived cell line to find genes with differential expression in response to changes in Pou4f3 levels. The screen identified the stress-granule-associated protein Caprin-1 as being downregulated by Pou4f3. We demonstrated that this regulation occurs through the direct interaction of Pou4f3 with binding sites in the Caprin-1 5' flanking sequence, and describe the expression pattern of Caprin-1 mRNA and protein in the cochlea. Moreover, we found Caprin-1-containing stress granules are induced in cochlear hair cells following aminoglycoside-induced damage. This is the first report of stress granule formation in mammalian hair cells and suggests that the formation of Caprin-1-containing stress granules is a key damage response to a clinically relevant ototoxic agent. Our results have implications for the understanding of aminoglycoside-induced hearing loss and provide further evidence that stress granule formation is a fundamental cellular stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Towers
- UCL Ear Institute, 332 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8EE, UK
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Waryah AM, Ahmed ZM, Bhinder MA, Binder MA, Choo DI, Sisk RA, Shahzad M, Khan SN, Friedman TB, Riazuddin S, Riazuddin S. Molecular and clinical studies of X-linked deafness among Pakistani families. J Hum Genet 2011; 56:534-40. [PMID: 21633365 PMCID: PMC3143270 DOI: 10.1038/jhg.2011.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
There are 68 sex-linked syndromes that include hearing loss as one feature and five sex-linked nonsyndromic deafness loci listed in the OMIM database. The possibility of additional such sex-linked loci was explored by ascertaining three unrelated Pakistani families (PKDF536, PKDF1132, PKDF740) segregating X-linked recessive deafness. Sequence analysis of POU3F4 (DFN3) in affected members of families PKDF536 and PKDF1132 revealed two novel nonsense mutations, p.Q136X and p.W114X, respectively. Family PKDF740 is segregating congenital blindness, mild to profound progressive hearing loss that is characteristic of Norrie disease (MIM#310600). Sequence analysis of NDP among affected members of this family revealed a novel single nucleotide deletion c.49delG causing a frameshift and premature truncation (p.V17fsX1) of the encoded protein. These mutations were not found in 150 normal DNA samples. Identification of pathogenic alleles causing X-linked recessive deafness will improve molecular diagnosis, genetic counseling, and molecular epidemiology of hearing loss among Pakistanis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M Waryah
- National Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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Dror AA, Avraham KB. Hearing Impairment: A Panoply of Genes and Functions. Neuron 2010; 68:293-308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2010.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Thummer RP, Drenth-Diephuis LJ, Carney KE, Eggen BJL. Functional characterization of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the human undifferentiated embryonic-cell transcription factor 1 gene. DNA Cell Biol 2010; 29:241-8. [PMID: 20218897 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2009.0981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are single-nucleotide sequence variations between individuals. Two missense SNPs are present in the human undifferentiated embryonic-cell transcription factor 1 (UTF1) gene and their consequences for UTF1 function are investigated in this study. Expression of the UTF1 gene is restricted to pluripotent cells and UTF1 is a chromatin-associated protein with core histone-like properties. UTF1 further acts as a transcriptional repressor and is required for proper differentiation of pluripotent cells. Two missense mutations in UTF1 are reported: rs11599284, which results in a glycine to an arginine change at amino acid 73, and rs4480453, resulting in a leucine to methionine change at amino acid 275. To study the effects of these two SNPs, P19CL6 mouse embryonic carcinoma cells stably expressing eGFP-hUTF1 constructs containing either one or both SNPs were generated. The single and double SNPs did not alter the localization or transcriptional repressor activity of the protein. Further, the single SNPs did not alter the chromatin association and mobility of hUTF1. However, the double mutant, G73R/L275M, demonstrated a decreased chromatin association, indicating a degree of protein malfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajkumar P Thummer
- Developmental Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Haren, The Netherlands
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Lee HK, Park HJ, Lee KY, Park R, Kim UK. A novel frameshift mutation of POU4F3 gene associated with autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2010; 396:626-30. [PMID: 20434433 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2010.04.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Autosomal dominant mutations in the transcription factor POU4F3 gene are associated with non-syndromic hearing loss in humans; however, there have been few reports of mutations in this gene worldwide. We performed a mutation analysis of the POU4F3 gene in 42 unrelated Koreans with autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss, identifying a novel 14-bp deletion mutation in exon 2 (c.662del14) in one patient. Audiometric examination revealed severe bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in this patient. The novel mutation led to a truncated protein that lacked both functional POU domains. We further investigated the functional distinction between wild-type and mutant POU4F3 proteins using in vitro assays. The wild-type protein was completely localized in the nucleus, while the truncation of protein seriously affected its nuclear localization. In addition, the mutant failed to activate reporter gene expression. This is the first report of a POU4F3 mutation in Asia, and moreover our data suggest that further investigation will need to delineate ethnicity-specific genetic background for autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss within Asian populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Keun Lee
- Department of Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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Atar O, Avraham KB. Anti-apoptotic factor z-Val-Ala-Asp-fluoromethylketone promotes the survival of cochlear hair cells in a mouse model for human deafness. Neuroscience 2010; 168:851-7. [PMID: 20394804 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Revised: 03/21/2010] [Accepted: 04/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in the inner ear research field is to restore hearing loss of both non-genetic and genetic origin. A large effort is being made to protect hair cells from cell death after exposure to noise or drugs that can cause hearing loss. Our research focused on protecting hair cells from cell death occurring in a genetic model for human deafness. POU4F3 is a transcription factor associated with human hearing impairment. Pou4f3 knockout mice (Pou4f3(-/-)) have no cochlear hair cells, resulting in complete deafness. Although the hair cells appear to form properly, they progressively degenerate via apoptosis. In order to rescue the hair cells in the knockout mice, we produced explant cultures from mouse cochleae at an early embryonic stage and treated the cells with z-Val-Ala-Asp-fluoromethylketone (z-VAD-fmk), a general caspase inhibitor. Hair cell numbers in the knockout mice treated with z-VAD-fmk were significantly higher than in the untreated mice. We found that the time window that z-VAD-fmk has a protective effect is between E14.5 (P=0.001) to E16.5 (P=0.03), but not after E18.5. The source of the surviving hair cells is not due to proliferation, as measured by 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling, or to supporting cell transdifferentiation to hair cells, since there was no change in supporting cell numbers. Instead, the survival appears to be a direct effect of the anti-apoptotic agent on the dying hair cells with an early developmental window. These results help towards providing a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of hair cell death, which might lead to the development of new therapeutic anti-apoptotic agents to alleviate hereditary hearing loss (HL).
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Affiliation(s)
- O Atar
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Lee HK, Song MH, Kang M, Lee JT, Kong KA, Choi SJ, Lee KY, Venselaar H, Vriend G, Lee WS, Park HJ, Kwon TK, Bok J, Kim UK. Clinical and molecular characterizations of novel POU3F4 mutations reveal that DFN3 is due to null function of POU3F4 protein. Physiol Genomics 2009; 39:195-201. [DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00100.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
X-linked deafness type 3 (DFN3), the most prevalent X-linked form of hereditary deafness, is caused by mutations in the POU3F4 locus, which encodes a member of the POU family of transcription factors. Despite numerous reports on clinical evaluations and genetic analyses describing novel POU3F4 mutations, little is known about how such mutations affect normal functions of the POU3F4 protein and cause inner ear malformations and deafness. Here we describe three novel mutations of the POU3F4 gene and their clinical characterizations in three Korean families carrying deafness segregating at the DFN3 locus. The three mutations cause a substitution (p.Arg329Pro) or a deletion (p.Ser310del) of highly conserved amino acid residues in the POU homeodomain or a truncation that eliminates both DNA-binding domains (p.Ala116fs). In an attempt to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying their inner ear defects, we examined the behavior of the normal and mutant forms of the POU3F4 protein in C3H/10T1/2 mesodermal cells. Protein modeling as well as in vitro assays demonstrated that these mutations are detrimental to the tertiary structure of the POU3F4 protein and severely affect its ability to bind DNA. All three mutated POU3F4 proteins failed to transactivate expression of a reporter gene. In addition, all three failed to inhibit the transcriptional activity of wild-type proteins when both wild-type and mutant proteins were coexpressed. Since most of the mutations reported for DFN3 thus far are associated with regions that encode the DNA binding domains of POU3F4, our results strongly suggest that the deafness in DFN3 patients is largely due to the null function of POU3F4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Keun Lee
- Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - Mee Hyun Song
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Goyang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine; and
| | - Myengmo Kang
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul
| | - Jung Tae Lee
- Department of Immunology, Keimyung University School of Medicine
| | - Kyoung-Ah Kong
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul
| | - Su-Jin Choi
- Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - Kyu Yup Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Hanka Venselaar
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gert Vriend
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Won-Sang Lee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Yonsei University College of Medicine; and
| | | | - Taeg Kyu Kwon
- Department of Immunology, Keimyung University School of Medicine
| | - Jinwoong Bok
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Korea 21 Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul
| | - Un-Kyung Kim
- Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
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Abstract
The identification of the molecular basis of deafness in the last decade has made a remarkable impact on genetic counseling and diagnostics for the hearing impaired population. Since the discovery of the most prevalent form of deafness associated with mutations in the GJB2 (connexin 26) gene, many other genes have been found worldwide, with a subset of these, including unique mutations, in Israel. Here, we review the current status of deafness genes in Israel and report one known mutation in a syndromic form of deafness, Usher syndrome, described in the Jewish Israeli population for the first time. In the future, the identification of specific mutations may be relevant for specific types of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zippora Brownstein
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978 Israel.
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