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Villalba A. Artificial Gametes and Human Reproduction in the 21st Century: An Ethical Analysis. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2174-2183. [PMID: 38780744 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01558-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Artificial gametes, derived from stem cells, have the potential to enable in vitro fertilization of embryos. Currently, artificial gametes are only being generated in laboratory animals; however, considerable efforts are underway to develop artificial gametes using human cell sources. These artificial gametes are being proposed as a means to address infertility through assisted reproductive technologies. Nonetheless, the availability of artificial gametes obtained from adult organisms can potentially expand the possibilities of reproduction. Various groups, such as same-sex couples, post-menopausal women, and deceased donors, could potentially utilize artificial gametes to conceive genetically related offspring. The advent of artificial gametes raises significant bioethical questions. Should all these reproductive scenarios be accepted? How can we delineate the range of future reproductive choices? A normative bioethical framework may be necessary to establish a consensus regarding the use of human artificial gametes. This review aims to present the current state of research on the biological roadmap for generating artificial gametes, while also summarizing proposed approaches to establish a normative framework that delineates ethically acceptable paths for reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Villalba
- Departamento de Filosofía II, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.
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2
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de Castro RCF, Buranello TW, Recchia K, de Souza AF, Pieri NCG, Bressan FF. Emerging Contributions of Pluripotent Stem Cells to Reproductive Technologies in Veterinary Medicine. J Dev Biol 2024; 12:14. [PMID: 38804434 PMCID: PMC11130827 DOI: 10.3390/jdb12020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The generation of mature gametes and competent embryos in vitro from pluripotent stem cells has been successfully achieved in a few species, mainly in mice, with recent advances in humans and scarce preliminary reports in other domestic species. These biotechnologies are very attractive as they facilitate the understanding of developmental mechanisms and stages that are generally inaccessible during early embryogenesis, thus enabling advanced reproductive technologies and contributing to the generation of animals of high genetic merit in a short period. Studies on the production of in vitro embryos in pigs and cattle are currently used as study models for humans since they present more similar characteristics when compared to rodents in both the initial embryo development and adult life. This review discusses the most relevant biotechnologies used in veterinary medicine, focusing on the generation of germ-cell-like cells in vitro through the acquisition of totipotent status and the production of embryos in vitro from pluripotent stem cells, thus highlighting the main uses of pluripotent stem cells in livestock species and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raiane Cristina Fratini de Castro
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, SP, Brazil; (R.C.F.d.C.); (T.W.B.); (K.R.)
| | - Tiago William Buranello
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, SP, Brazil; (R.C.F.d.C.); (T.W.B.); (K.R.)
| | - Kaiana Recchia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, SP, Brazil; (R.C.F.d.C.); (T.W.B.); (K.R.)
| | - Aline Fernanda de Souza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, SP, Brazil; (R.C.F.d.C.); (T.W.B.); (K.R.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil;
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3
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Kress C, Jouneau L, Pain B. Reinforcement of repressive marks in the chicken primordial germ cell epigenetic signature: divergence from basal state resetting in mammals. Epigenetics Chromatin 2024; 17:11. [PMID: 38671530 PMCID: PMC11046797 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-024-00537-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mammals, primordial germ cells (PGCs), the embryonic precursors of the germline, arise from embryonic or extra-embryonic cells upon induction by the surrounding tissues during gastrulation, according to mechanisms which are elucidated in mice but remain controversial in primates. They undergo genome-wide epigenetic reprogramming, consisting of extensive DNA demethylation and histone post-translational modification (PTM) changes, toward a basal, euchromatinized state. In contrast, chicken PGCs are specified by preformation before gastrulation based on maternally-inherited factors. They can be isolated from the bloodstream during their migration to the genital ridges. Our prior research highlighted differences in the global epigenetic profile of cultured chicken PGCs compared with chicken somatic cells and mammalian PGCs. This study investigates the acquisition and evolution of this profile during development. RESULTS Quantitative analysis of global DNA methylation and histone PTMs, including their distribution, during key stages of chicken early development revealed divergent PGC epigenetic changes compared with mammals. Unlike mammalian PGCs, chicken PGCs do not undergo genome-wide DNA demethylation or exhibit a decrease in histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation. However, chicken PGCs show 5‑hydroxymethylcytosine loss, macroH2A redistribution, and chromatin decompaction, mirroring mammalian processes. Chicken PGCs initiate their epigenetic signature during migration, progressively accumulating high global levels of H3K9me3, with preferential enrichment in inactive genome regions. Despite apparent global chromatin decompaction, abundant heterochromatin marks, including repressive histone PTMs, HP1 variants, and DNA methylation, persists in chicken PGCs, contrasting with mammalian PGCs. CONCLUSIONS Chicken PGCs' epigenetic signature does not align with the basal chromatin state observed in mammals, suggesting a departure from extensive epigenetic reprogramming. Despite disparities in early PGC development, the persistence of several epigenetic features shared with mammals implies their involvement in chromatin-regulated germ cell properties, with the distinctive elevation of chicken-specific H3K9me3 potentially participating in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Kress
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, INSERM, INRAE, U1208, USC1361, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France.
| | - Luc Jouneau
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, Maisons-Alfort, 94700, France
| | - Bertrand Pain
- Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1, INSERM, INRAE, U1208, USC1361, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
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4
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Lee SM, Loo C, Prasasya R, Bartolomei M, Kohli R, Zhou W. Low-input and single-cell methods for Infinium DNA methylation BeadChips. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:e38. [PMID: 38407446 PMCID: PMC11040145 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The Infinium BeadChip is the most widely used DNA methylome assay technology for population-scale epigenome profiling. However, the standard workflow requires over 200 ng of input DNA, hindering its application to small cell-number samples, such as primordial germ cells. We developed experimental and analysis workflows to extend this technology to suboptimal input DNA conditions, including ultra-low input down to single cells. DNA preamplification significantly enhanced detection rates to over 50% in five-cell samples and ∼25% in single cells. Enzymatic conversion also substantially improved data quality. Computationally, we developed a method to model the background signal's influence on the DNA methylation level readings. The modified detection P-value calculation achieved higher sensitivities for low-input datasets and was validated in over 100 000 public diverse methylome profiles. We employed the optimized workflow to query the demethylation dynamics in mouse primordial germ cells available at low cell numbers. Our data revealed nuanced chromatin states, sex disparities, and the role of DNA methylation in transposable element regulation during germ cell development. Collectively, we present comprehensive experimental and computational solutions to extend this widely used methylation assay technology to applications with limited DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sol Moe Lee
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Christian E Loo
- Graduate Group in Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rexxi D Prasasya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rahul M Kohli
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Wanding Zhou
- Center for Computational and Genomic Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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5
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Zhang G, Xie XX, Zhang SE, Zhang FL, Li CX, Qiao T, Dyce PW, Feng XL, Lin WB, Sun QC, Shen W, Cheng SF. Induced differentiation of primordial germ cell like cells from SOX9 + porcine skin derived stem cells. Theriogenology 2023; 212:129-139. [PMID: 37717516 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms behind porcine primordial germ cell like cells (pPGCLCs) development, differentiation, and gametogenesis is crucial in the treatment of infertility. In this study, SOX9+ skin derived stem cells (SOX9+ SDSCs) were isolated from fetal porcine skin and a high-purity SOX9+ SDSCs population was obtained. The SOX9+ SDSCs were induced to transdifferentiate into PGCLCs during 8 days of cultured. The results of RNA-seq, western blot and immunofluorescence staining verified SDSCs have the potential to transdifferentiate into PGCLCs from aspects of transcription factor activation, germ layer differentiation, energy metabolism, and epigenetic changes. Both adherent and suspended cells were collected. The adherent cells were found to be very similar to early porcine primordial germ cells (pPGCs). The suspended cells resembled late stage pPGCs and had a potential to enter meiotic process. This SDSCs culture-induced in vitro model is expected to provide suitable donor cells for stem cell transplantation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xin-Xiang Xie
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Animal Husbandry General Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250010, China
| | - Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, 271018, China
| | - Chun-Xiao Li
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Tian Qiao
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Shandong Animal Products Quality and Safety Center, Jinan, 250010, China
| | - Wei-Bo Lin
- Animal Husbandry Development Center of Changyi City, Weifang, 261300, China
| | - Qi-Cheng Sun
- School of Finance, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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6
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Lee SM, Loo CE, Prasasya RD, Bartolomei MS, Kohli RM, Zhou W. Low-input and single-cell methods for Infinium DNA methylation BeadChips. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.18.558252. [PMID: 37786695 PMCID: PMC10541608 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.18.558252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
The Infinium BeadChip is the most widely used DNA methylome assay technology for population-scale epigenome profiling. However, the standard workflow requires over 200 ng of input DNA, hindering its application to small cell-number samples, such as primordial germ cells. We developed experimental and analysis workflows to extend this technology to suboptimal input DNA conditions, including ultra-low input down to single cells. DNA preamplification significantly enhanced detection rates to over 50% in five-cell samples and ∼25% in single cells. Enzymatic conversion also substantially improved data quality. Computationally, we developed a method to model the background signal's influence on the DNA methylation level readings. The modified detection p -values calculation achieved higher sensitivities for low-input datasets and was validated in over 100,000 public datasets with diverse methylation profiles. We employed the optimized workflow to query the demethylation dynamics in mouse primordial germ cells available at low cell numbers. Our data revealed nuanced chromatin states, sex disparities, and the role of DNA methylation in transposable element regulation during germ cell development. Collectively, we present comprehensive experimental and computational solutions to extend this widely used methylation assay technology to applications with limited DNA.
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7
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Karam G, Molaro A. Casting histone variants during mammalian reproduction. Chromosoma 2023:10.1007/s00412-023-00803-9. [PMID: 37347315 PMCID: PMC10356639 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-023-00803-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
During mammalian reproduction, germ cell chromatin packaging is key to prepare parental genomes for fertilization and to initiate embryonic development. While chromatin modifications such as DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications are well known to carry regulatory information, histone variants have received less attention in this context. Histone variants alter the stability, structure and function of nucleosomes and, as such, contribute to chromatin organization in germ cells. Here, we review histone variants expression dynamics during the production of male and female germ cells, and what is currently known about their parent-of-origin effects during reproduction. Finally, we discuss the apparent conundrum behind these important functions and their recent evolutionary diversification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germaine Karam
- Genetics, Reproduction and Development Institute (iGReD), CNRS UMR 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antoine Molaro
- Genetics, Reproduction and Development Institute (iGReD), CNRS UMR 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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8
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Mattimoe T, Payer B. The compleX balancing act of controlling X-chromosome dosage and how it impacts mammalian germline development. Biochem J 2023; 480:521-537. [PMID: 37096944 PMCID: PMC10212525 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
In female mammals, the two X chromosomes are subject to epigenetic gene regulation in order to balance X-linked gene dosage with autosomes and in relation to males, which have one X and one Y chromosome. This is achieved by an intricate interplay of several processes; X-chromosome inactivation and reactivation elicit global epigenetic regulation of expression from one X chromosome in a stage-specific manner, whilst the process of X-chromosome upregulation responds to this by fine-tuning transcription levels of the second X. The germline is unique in its function of transmitting both the genetic and epigenetic information from one generation to the next, and remodelling of the X chromosome is one of the key steps in setting the stage for successful development. Here, we provide an overview of the complex dynamics of X-chromosome dosage control during embryonic and germ cell development, and aim to decipher its potential role for normal germline competency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Mattimoe
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernhard Payer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Carrer Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
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9
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Luo Q, Pui HP, Chen J, Yu L, Jannig PR, Pei Y, Zhao L, Chen X, Petropoulos S, Ruas JL, Wu J, Deng Q. Epiblast-like stem cells established by Wnt/β-catenin signaling manifest distinct features of formative pluripotency and germline competence. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112021. [PMID: 36848234 PMCID: PMC10026833 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112021] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Different formative pluripotent stem cells harboring similar functional properties have been recently established to be lineage neutral and germline competent yet have distinct molecular identities. Here, we show that WNT/β-catenin signaling activation sustains transient mouse epiblast-like cells as epiblast-like stem cells (EpiLSCs). EpiLSCs display metastable formative pluripotency with bivalent cellular energy metabolism and unique transcriptomic features and chromatin accessibility. We develop single-cell stage label transfer (scSTALT) to study the formative pluripotency continuum and reveal that EpiLSCs recapitulate a unique developmental period in vivo, filling the gap of the formative pluripotency continuum between other published formative stem cells. WNT/β-catenin signaling activation counteracts differentiation effects of activin A and bFGF by preventing complete dissolution of naive pluripotency regulatory network. Moreover, EpiLSCs have direct competence toward germline specification, which is further matured by an FGF receptor inhibitor. Our EpiLSCs can serve as an in vitro model for mimicking and studying early post-implantation development and pluripotency transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Luo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Han-Pin Pui
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Jiayu Chen
- Clinical and Translation Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 20092, China; Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji University, Shanghai 20092, China
| | - Leqian Yu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Paulo R Jannig
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yu Pei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Linxuan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Xingqi Chen
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden; Department of Medicine, Centre de recherche du CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Jorge L Ruas
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden; Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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10
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Nagamatsu G. Oocyte aging in comparison to stem cells in mice. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1158510. [PMID: 37114094 PMCID: PMC10126682 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1158510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
To maintain homeostasis, many tissues contain stem cells that can self-renew and differentiate. Based on these functions, stem cells can reconstitute the tissue even after injury. In reproductive organs, testes have spermatogonial stem cells that generate sperm in men throughout their lifetime. However, in the ovary, oocytes enter meiosis at the embryonic stage and maintain sustainable oogenesis in the absence of stem cells. After birth, oocytes are maintained in a dormant state in the primordial follicle, which is the most premature follicle in the ovary, and some are activated to form mature oocytes. Thus, regulation of dormancy and activation of primordial follicles is critical for a sustainable ovulatory cycle and is directly related to the female reproductive cycle. However, oocyte storage is insufficient to maintain a lifelong ovulation cycle. Therefore, the ovary is one of the earliest organs to be involved in aging. Although stem cells are capable of proliferation, they typically exhibit slow cycling or dormancy. Therefore, there are some supposed similarities with oocytes in primordial follicles, not only in their steady state but also during aging. This review aims to summarise the sustainability of oogenesis and aging phenotypes compared to tissue stem cells. Finally, it focuses on the recent breakthroughs in vitro culture and discusses future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Go Nagamatsu
- Center for Advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan
- Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Saitama, Japan
- *Correspondence: Go Nagamatsu,
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11
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Myostatin Mutation Enhances Bovine Myogenic Differentiation through PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signalling via Removing DNA Methylation of RACK1. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010059. [PMID: 36611855 PMCID: PMC9818849 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle development and plays an important role in muscle development. Fluctuations in gene expression influenced by DNA methylation are critical for homeostatic responses in muscle. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying this fluctuation regulation and myogenic differentiation of skeletal muscle. Here we report a genome-wide analysis of DNA methylation dynamics in bovine skeletal muscle myogenesis after myostatin editing. We show that, after myostatin editing, an increase in TETs (DNA demethylases) and a concomitant increase in the receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) control the myogenic development of skeletal muscle. Interestingly, enhancement of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling by RACK1 appears to be an essential driver of myogenic differentiation, as it was associated with an increase in myogenic differentiation marker factors (MyHC and MyoG) during muscle differentiation. Overall, our results suggest that loss of myostatin promotes the myogenic differentiation response in skeletal muscle by decreasing DNA methylation of RACK1.
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12
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Liu WX, Tan SJ, Wang YF, Zhang FL, Feng YQ, Ge W, Dyce PW, Reiter RJ, Shen W, Cheng SF. Melatonin promotes the proliferation of primordial germ cell-like cells derived from porcine skin-derived stem cells: A mechanistic analysis. J Pineal Res 2022; 73:e12833. [PMID: 36106819 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In vitro differentiation of stem cells into functional gametes remains of great interest in the biomedical field. Skin-derived stem cells (SDSCs) are an adult stem cells that provides a wide range of clinical applications without inherent ethical restrictions. In this paper, porcine SDSCs were successfully differentiated into primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) in conditioned media. The PGCLCs were characterized in terms of cell morphology, marker gene expression, and epigenetic properties. Furthermore, we also found that 25 μM melatonin (MLT) significantly increased the proliferation of the SDSC-derived PGCLCs while acting through the MLT receptor type 1 (MT1). RNA-seq results found the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway was more active when PGCLCs were cultured with MLT. Moreover, the effect of MLT was attenuated by the use of S26131 (MT1 antagonist), crenolanib (platelet-derived growth factor receptor inhibitor), U0126 (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor), or CCG-1423 (serum response factor transcription inhibitor), suggesting that MLT promotes the proliferation processes through the MAPK pathway. Taken together, this study highlights the role of MLT in promoting PGCLCs proliferation. Importantly, this study provides a suitable in vitro model for use in translational studies and could help to answer numerous remaining questions related to germ cell physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Xiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation & Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, China
| | - Shao-Jing Tan
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yu-Feng Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yu-Qing Feng
- School Hospital, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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13
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Escher J, Yan W, Rissman EF, Wang HLV, Hernandez A, Corces VG. Beyond Genes: Germline Disruption in the Etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:4608-4624. [PMID: 34596807 PMCID: PMC9035896 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05304-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Investigations into the etiology of autism spectrum disorders have been largely confined to two realms: variations in DNA sequence and somatic developmental exposures. Here we suggest a third route-disruption of the germline epigenome induced by exogenous toxicants during a parent's gamete development. Similar to cases of germline mutation, these molecular perturbations may produce dysregulated transcription of brain-related genes during fetal and early development, resulting in abnormal neurobehavioral phenotypes in offspring. Many types of exposures may have these impacts, and here we discuss examples of anesthetic gases, tobacco components, synthetic steroids, and valproic acid. Alterations in parental germline could help explain some unsolved phenomena of autism, including increased prevalence, missing heritability, skewed sex ratio, and heterogeneity of neurobiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Escher
- Escher Fund for Autism, 1590 Calaveras Avenue, San Jose, CA, USA.
| | - Wei Yan
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Emilie F Rissman
- Center for Human Health and the Environment and Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Hsiao-Lin V Wang
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arturo Hernandez
- Maine Medical Center Research Institute, MaineHealth, Scarborough, ME, USA
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Victor G Corces
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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14
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Severino J, Bauer M, Mattimoe T, Arecco N, Cozzuto L, Lorden P, Hamada N, Nosaka Y, Nagaoka SI, Audergon P, Tarruell A, Heyn H, Hayashi K, Saitou M, Payer B. Controlled X-chromosome dynamics defines meiotic potential of female mouse in vitro germ cells. EMBO J 2022; 41:e109457. [PMID: 35603814 PMCID: PMC9194795 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2021109457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian germline is characterized by extensive epigenetic reprogramming during its development into functional eggs and sperm. Specifically, the epigenome requires resetting before parental marks can be established and transmitted to the next generation. In the female germline, X‐chromosome inactivation and reactivation are among the most prominent epigenetic reprogramming events, yet very little is known about their kinetics and biological function. Here, we investigate X‐inactivation and reactivation dynamics using a tailor‐made in vitro system of primordial germ cell‐like cell (PGCLC) differentiation from mouse embryonic stem cells. We find that X‐inactivation in PGCLCs in vitro and in germ cell‐competent epiblast cells in vivo is moderate compared to somatic cells, and frequently characterized by escaping genes. X‐inactivation is followed by step‐wise X‐reactivation, which is mostly completed during meiotic prophase I. Furthermore, we find that PGCLCs which fail to undergo X‐inactivation or reactivate too rapidly display impaired meiotic potential. Thus, our data reveal fine‐tuned X‐chromosome remodelling as a critical feature of female germ cell development towards meiosis and oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Severino
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Moritz Bauer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tom Mattimoe
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Niccolò Arecco
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luca Cozzuto
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Lorden
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Norio Hamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Nosaka
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - So I Nagaoka
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Pauline Audergon
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Antonio Tarruell
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Holger Heyn
- CNAG-CRG, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Mitinori Saitou
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Bernhard Payer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Postnikova LA, Patkin EL. The possible effect of lactoferrin on the epigenetic characteristics of early mammalian embryos exposed to bisphenol A. Birth Defects Res 2022; 114:1199-1209. [PMID: 35451577 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2017] [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: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main objective of this review was to state a hypothetical mechanism of the antitoxic effect of lactoferrin (Lf) on embryos exposed to bisphenol A (BPA). On this basis, it is possible to suggest Lf as a potential protective health component before conception upon toxic effects and viral infections. METHODS The narrative review was performed using systematic review methods to identify relevant literature. The resources required for this study were obtained by searching the electronic database PubMed (MEDLINE). Articles were searched using the keywords "BPA," "lactoferrin," "DNA-methylation," "epigenetic," "mammals," "human," and "mouse." The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) primary or original research; (b) study of epigenetic modification; and (c) study focuses on early mammalian development. RESULTS Presented data demonstrate that Lf can modulate epigenetical characteristic, such as DNA methylation and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and, thereby, may serve as a potential readily available pharmaceutical product. CONCLUSION Suggested hypothesis is based on the important interrelated role of changes in epigenetic modifications and oxidative stress in early embryogenesis under the influence of BPA and virus infection as a cause of the development of pathologies in the adult organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liubov A Postnikova
- Federal State Budget Scientific Institution "Institute of Experimental Medicine", St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Eugene L Patkin
- Federal State Budget Scientific Institution "Institute of Experimental Medicine", St. Petersburg, Russia
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16
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Artificial Oocyte: Development and Potential Application. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071135. [PMID: 35406698 PMCID: PMC8998074 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of people around the world suffer from infertility, with the number of infertile couples and individuals increasing every year. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been widely developed in recent years; however, some patients are unable to benefit from these technologies due to their lack of functional germ cells. Therefore, the development of alternative methods seems necessary. One of these methods is to create artificial oocytes. Oocytes can be generated in vitro from the ovary, fetal gonad, germline stem cells (GSCs), ovarian stem cells, or pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). This approach has raised new hopes in both basic research and medical applications. In this article, we looked at the principle of oocyte development, the landmark studies that enhanced our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern oogenesis in vivo, as well as the mechanisms underlying in vitro generation of functional oocytes from different sources of mouse and human stem cells. In addition, we introduced next-generation ART using somatic cells with artificial oocytes. Finally, we provided an overview of the reproductive application of in vitro oogenesis and its use in human fertility.
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17
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Yao C, Yao R, Luo H, Shuai L. Germline specification from pluripotent stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:74. [PMID: 35189957 PMCID: PMC8862564 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02750-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a key event in life guaranteeing the propagation and evolution of a species. Infertility caused by abnormal germ cell development is a topic of extensive concern. Herein, in vitro germline specification studies provide a modeling platform to investigate gametogenesis. The differentiation of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) into germ cells has been studied for more than 30 years, and there have been many astonishing breakthroughs in the last decade. Fertile sperm and oocytes can be obtained from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) through a primordial germ cell (PGC)-based method. Moreover, human PGC-like cells (PGCLCs) can be derived with a similar strategy as that used for mouse PGCLC derivation. In this review, we describe the reconstitution of PGCs and the subsequent meiosis, as well as the signaling pathways and factors involved in these processes.
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18
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Subrini J, Turner J. Y chromosome functions in mammalian spermatogenesis. eLife 2021; 10:67345. [PMID: 34606444 PMCID: PMC8489898 DOI: 10.7554/elife.67345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian Y chromosome is critical for male sex determination and spermatogenesis. However, linking each Y gene to specific aspects of male reproduction has been challenging. As the Y chromosome is notoriously hard to sequence and target, functional studies have mostly relied on transgene-rescue approaches using mouse models with large multi-gene deletions. These experimental limitations have oriented the field toward the search for a minimum set of Y genes necessary for male reproduction. Here, considering Y-chromosome evolutionary history and decades of discoveries, we review the current state of research on its function in spermatogenesis and reassess the view that many Y genes are disposable for male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremie Subrini
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - James Turner
- Sex Chromosome Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
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19
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Wang F, Qin Z, Li Z, Yang S, Gao T, Sun L, Wang D. Dnmt3aa but Not Dnmt3ab Is Required for Maintenance of Gametogenesis in Nile Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810170. [PMID: 34576333 PMCID: PMC8469005 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dnmt3a, a de novo methyltransferase, is essential for mammalian germ line DNA methylation. Only one Dnmt3a is identified in mammals, and homozygous mutants of Dnmt3a are lethal, while two Dnmt3a paralogs, dnmt3aa and dnmt3ab, are identified in teleosts due to the third round of genome duplication, and homozygous mutants of dnmt3aa and dnmt3ab are viable in zebrafish. The expression patterns and roles of dnmt3aa and dnmt3ab in gonadal development remain poorly understood in teleosts. In this study, we elucidated the precise expression patterns of dnmt3aa and dnmt3ab in tilapia gonads. Dnmt3aa was highly expressed in oogonia, phase I and II oocytes and granulosa cells in ovaries and spermatogonia and spermatocytes in testes, while dnmt3ab was mainly expressed in ovarian granulosa cells and testicular spermatocytes. The mutation of dnmt3aa and dnmt3ab was achieved by CRISPR/Cas9 in tilapia. Lower gonadosomatic index (GSI), increased apoptosis of oocytes and spermatocytes and significantly reduced sperm quality were observed in dnmt3aa−/− mutants, while normal gonadal development was observed in dnmt3ab−/− mutants. Consistently, the expression of apoptotic genes was significantly increased in dnmt3aa−/− mutants. In addition, the 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) level in dnmt3aa−/− gonads was decreased significantly, compared with that of dnmt3ab−/− and wild type (WT) gonads. Taken together, our results suggest that dnmt3aa, not dnmt3ab, plays important roles in maintaining gametogenesis in teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Lina Sun
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (D.W.); Tel.: +86-23-6825-3702 (D.W.)
| | - Deshou Wang
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (D.W.); Tel.: +86-23-6825-3702 (D.W.)
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20
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Wang L, Yang W, Li B, Yuan S, Wang F. Response to stress in biological disorders: Implications of stress granule assembly and function. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13086. [PMID: 34170048 PMCID: PMC8349659 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It is indispensable for cells to adapt and respond to environmental stresses, in order for organisms to survive. Stress granules (SGs) are condensed membrane‐less organelles dynamically formed in the cytoplasm of eukaryotes cells to cope with diverse intracellular or extracellular stress factors, with features of liquid‐liquid phase separation. They are composed of multiple constituents, including translationally stalled mRNAs, translation initiation factors, RNA‐binding proteins and also non‐RNA‐binding proteins. SG formation is triggered by stress stimuli, viral infection and signal transduction, while aberrant assembly of SGs may contribute to tissue degenerative diseases. Recently, a growing body of evidence has emerged on SG response mechanisms for cells facing high temperatures, oxidative stress and osmotic stress. In this review, we aim to summarize factors affecting SGs assembly, present the impact of SGs on germ cell development and other biological processes. We particularly emphasize the significance of recently reported RNA modifications in SG stress responses. In parallel, we also review all current perspectives on the roles of SGs in male germ cells, with a particular focus on the dynamics of SG assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjuan Wang
- Institute Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
| | - Weina Yang
- Institute Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
| | - Bin Li
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
| | - Fengli Wang
- Institute Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hubei, China
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21
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Shukla V, Høffding MK, Hoffmann ER. Genome diversity and instability in human germ cells and preimplantation embryos. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 113:132-147. [PMID: 33500205 PMCID: PMC8097364 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Genome diversity is essential for evolution and is of fundamental importance to human health. Generating genome diversity requires phases of DNA damage and repair that can cause genome instability. Humans have a high incidence of de novo congenital disorders compared to other organisms. Recent access to eggs, sperm and preimplantation embryos is revealing unprecedented rates of genome instability that may result in infertility and de novo mutations that cause genomic imbalance in at least 70% of conceptions. The error type and incidence of de novo mutations differ during developmental stages and are influenced by differences in male and female meiosis. In females, DNA repair is a critical factor that determines fertility and reproductive lifespan. In males, aberrant meiotic recombination causes infertility, embryonic failure and pregnancy loss. Evidence suggest germ cells are remarkably diverse in the type of genome instability that they display and the DNA damage responses they deploy. Additionally, the initial embryonic cell cycles are characterized by a high degree of genome instability that cause congenital disorders and may limit the use of CRISPR-Cas9 for heritable genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vallari Shukla
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Miya Kudo Høffding
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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22
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Environmentally Induced Epigenetic Transgenerational Inheritance and the Weismann Barrier: The Dawn of Neo-Lamarckian Theory. J Dev Biol 2020; 8:jdb8040028. [PMID: 33291540 PMCID: PMC7768451 DOI: 10.3390/jdb8040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
For the past 120 years, the Weismann barrier and associated germ plasm theory of heredity have been a doctrine that has impacted evolutionary biology and our concepts of inheritance through the germline. Although August Weismann in his 1872 book was correct that the sperm and egg were the only cells to transmit molecular information to the subsequent generation, the concept that somatic cells do not impact the germline (i.e., the Weismann barrier) is incorrect. However, the doctrine or dogma of the Weismann barrier still influences many scientific fields and topics. The discovery of epigenetics, and more recently environmentally induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of phenotypic variation and pathology, have had significant impacts on evolution theory and medicine today. Environmental epigenetics and the concept of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance refute aspects of the Weismann barrier and require a re-evaluation of both inheritance theory and evolution theory.
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23
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Nohara K, Nakabayashi K, Okamura K, Suzuki T, Suzuki S, Hata K. Gestational arsenic exposure induces site-specific DNA hypomethylation in active retrotransposon subfamilies in offspring sperm in mice. Epigenetics Chromatin 2020; 13:53. [PMID: 33267854 PMCID: PMC7709384 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-020-00375-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Environmental impacts on a fetus can disrupt germ cell development leading to epimutations in mature germ cells. Paternal inheritance of adverse health effects through sperm epigenomes, including DNA methylomes, has been recognized in human and animal studies. However, the impacts of gestational exposure to a variety of environmental factors on the germ cell epigenomes are not fully investigated. Arsenic, a naturally occurring contaminant, is one of the most concerning environmental chemicals, that is causing serious health problems, including an increase in cancer, in highly contaminated areas worldwide. We previously showed that gestational arsenic exposure of pregnant C3H mice paternally induces hepatic tumor increase in the second generation (F2). In the present study, we have investigated the F1 sperm DNA methylomes genome-widely by one-base resolution analysis using a reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) method. Results We have clarified that gestational arsenic exposure increases hypomethylated cytosines in all the chromosomes and they are significantly overrepresented in the retrotransposon LINEs and LTRs, predominantly in the intergenic regions. Closer analyses of detailed annotated DNA sequences showed that hypomethylated cytosines are especially accumulated in the promoter regions of the active full-length L1MdA subfamily in LINEs, and 5′LTRs of the active IAPE subfamily in LTRs. This is the first report that has identified the specific positions of methylomes altered in the retrotransposon elements by environmental exposure, by genome-wide methylome analysis. Conclusion Lowered DNA methylation potentially enhances L1MdA retrotransposition and cryptic promoter activity of 5′LTR for coding genes and non-coding RNAs. The present study has illuminated the environmental impacts on sperm DNA methylome establishment that can lead to augmented retrotransposon activities in germ cells and can cause harmful effects in the following generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Nohara
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiko Nakabayashi
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Okamura
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Takehiro Suzuki
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Shigekatsu Suzuki
- Center for Environmental Biology and Ecosystem Studies, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Hata
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan
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24
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Aida T, Feng G. The dawn of non-human primate models for neurodevelopmental disorders. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2020; 65:160-168. [PMID: 32693220 PMCID: PMC7955645 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2020.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Non-human primates (NHPs) have been proposed as good models for neurodevelopmental disorders due to close similarities to humans in terms of brain structure and cognitive function. The recent development of genome editing technologies has opened new avenues to generate and investigate genetically modified NHPs as models for human disorders. Here, we review the early successes of genetic NHP models for neurodevelopmental disorders and further discuss the technological challenges and opportunities to create next generation NHP models with more sophisticated genetic manipulation and faithful representations of the human genetic mutations. Taken together, the field is now poised to usher in a new era of research using genetically modified NHP models to empower a more rapid translation of basic research and maximize the preclinical potential for biomarker discovery and therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomomi Aida
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Guoping Feng
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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25
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Nohara K, Suzuki T, Okamura K. Gestational arsenic exposure and paternal intergenerational epigenetic inheritance. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 409:115319. [PMID: 33160984 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence has shown that gestational exposure to environmental factors such as imbalanced diet, environmental chemicals, and stress can lead to late-onset health effects in offspring and that some of these effects are heritable by the next generation and subsequent generations. Furthermore, altered epigenetic modifications in DNA methylation, histone modifications and small RNAs in a single sperm genome have been shown to transmit disease phenotypes acquired from the environment to later generations. Recently, our group found that gestational exposure of F0 pregnant dams to an inorganic arsenic, sodium arsenite, increases the incidence of hepatic tumors in male F2 mice, and the effects are paternally transmitted to the F2. Here, we first overview the epigenetic changes involved in paternal intergenerational and transgenerational inheritance caused by exposure to environmental factors. Then, we discuss our recent studies regarding paternal inheritance of the tumor-augmenting effects in F2 mice by gestational arsenite exposure, in which we investigated alterations of DNA methylation status in F2 tumors and causative F1 sperm. We also discuss the possible targets of the F2 effects. Finally, we discuss future perspectives on the studies that are needed to fully understand the health effects of arsenic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Nohara
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Takehiro Suzuki
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Okamura
- Center for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba 305-8506, Japan
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26
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Bline AP, Dearfield KL, DeMarini DM, Marchetti F, Yauk CL, Escher J. Heritable hazards of smoking: Applying the "clean sheet" framework to further science and policy. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2020; 61:910-921. [PMID: 33064321 PMCID: PMC7756471 DOI: 10.1002/em.22412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
All the cells in our bodies are derived from the germ cells of our parents, just as our own germ cells become the bodies of our children. The integrity of the genetic information inherited from these germ cells is of paramount importance in establishing the health of each generation and perpetuating our species into the future. There is a large and growing body of evidence strongly suggesting the existence of substances that may threaten this integrity by acting as human germ cell mutagens. However, there generally are no absolute regulatory requirements to test agents for germ cell effects. In addition, the current regulatory testing paradigms do not evaluate the impacts of epigenetically mediated intergenerational effects, and there is no regulatory framework to apply new and emerging tests in regulatory decision making. At the 50th annual meeting of the Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics Society held in Washington, DC, in September 2019, a workshop took place that examined the heritable effects of hazardous exposures to germ cells, using tobacco smoke as the example hazard. This synopsis provides a summary of areas of concern regarding heritable hazards from tobacco smoke exposures identified at the workshop and the value of the Clean Sheet framework in organizing information to address knowledge and testing gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail P. Bline
- Fielding School of Public HealthUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | | | | | - Francesco Marchetti
- Environmental Health Science Research Bureau, Health CanadaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Carole L. Yauk
- Department of BiologyUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
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NSD1-deposited H3K36me2 directs de novo methylation in the mouse male germline and counteracts Polycomb-associated silencing. Nat Genet 2020; 52:1088-1098. [PMID: 32929285 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-020-0689-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
De novo DNA methylation (DNAme) in mammalian germ cells is dependent on DNMT3A and DNMT3L. However, oocytes and spermatozoa show distinct patterns of DNAme. In mouse oocytes, de novo DNAme requires the lysine methyltransferase (KMTase) SETD2, which deposits H3K36me3. We show here that SETD2 is dispensable for de novo DNAme in the male germline. Instead, the lysine methyltransferase NSD1, which broadly deposits H3K36me2 in euchromatic regions, plays a critical role in de novo DNAme in prospermatogonia, including at imprinted genes. However, males deficient in germline NSD1 show a more severe defect in spermatogenesis than Dnmt3l-/- males. Notably, unlike DNMT3L, NSD1 safeguards a subset of genes against H3K27me3-associated transcriptional silencing. In contrast, H3K36me2 in oocytes is predominantly dependent on SETD2 and coincides with H3K36me3. Furthermore, females with NSD1-deficient oocytes are fertile. Thus, the sexually dimorphic pattern of DNAme in mature mouse gametes is orchestrated by distinct profiles of H3K36 methylation.
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Transposon Reactivation in the Germline May Be Useful for Both Transposons and Their Host Genomes. Cells 2020; 9:cells9051172. [PMID: 32397241 PMCID: PMC7290860 DOI: 10.3390/cells9051172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are long-term residents of eukaryotic genomes that make up a large portion of these genomes. They can be considered as perfectly fine members of genomes replicating with resident genes and being transmitted vertically to the next generation. However, unlike regular genes, TEs have the ability to send new copies to new sites. As such, they have been considered as parasitic members ensuring their own replication. In another view, TEs may also be considered as symbiotic sequences providing shared benefits after mutualistic interactions with their host genome. In this review, we recall the relationship between TEs and their host genome and discuss why transient relaxation of TE silencing within specific developmental windows may be useful for both.
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