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Shinsato RN, Correa CG, Herai RH. Genetic network analysis indicate that individuals affected by neurodevelopmental conditions have genetic variations associated with ophthalmologic alterations: A critical review of literature. Gene 2024; 908:148246. [PMID: 38325665 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148246] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Changes in the nervous system are related to a wide range of mental disorders, which include neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) that are characterized by early onset mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders and correlated conditions (ASD). Previous studies have shown distinct genetic components associated with diverse schizophrenia and ASD phenotypes, with mostly focused on rescuing neural phenotypes and brain activity, but alterations related to vision are overlooked. Thus, as the vision is composed by the eyes that itself represents a part of the brain, with the retina being formed by neurons and cells originating from the glia, genetic variations affecting the brain can also affect the vision. Here, we performed a critical systematic literature review to screen for all genetic variations in individuals presenting NDD with reported alterations in vision. Using these restricting criteria, we found 20 genes with distinct types of genetic variations, inherited or de novo, that includes SNP, SNV, deletion, insertion, duplication or indel. The variations occurring within protein coding regions have different impact on protein formation, such as missense, nonsense or frameshift. Moreover, a molecular analysis of the 20 genes found revealed that 17 shared a common protein-protein or genetic interaction network. Moreover, gene expression analysis in samples from the brain and other tissues indicates that 18 of the genes found are highly expressed in the brain and retina, indicating their potential role in adult vision phenotype. Finally, we only found 3 genes from our study described in standard public databanks of ophthalmogenetics, suggesting that the other 17 genes could be novel target for vision diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogério N Shinsato
- Unisalesiano, Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Neurogenetics (LaBiN/LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná, 80215-901, Brazil.
| | - Camila Graczyk Correa
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Neurogenetics (LaBiN/LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná, 80215-901, Brazil
| | - Roberto H Herai
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Neurogenetics (LaBiN/LEM), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná, 80215-901, Brazil; Research Division, Buko Kaesemodel Institute (IBK), Curitiba, Paraná 80240-000, Brazil; Research Division, 9p Brazil Association (A9pB), Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul 97060-580, Brazil.
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2
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Tangeman JA, Rebull SM, Grajales-Esquivel E, Weaver JM, Bendezu-Sayas S, Robinson ML, Lachke SA, Del Rio-Tsonis K. Integrated single-cell multiomics uncovers foundational regulatory mechanisms of lens development and pathology. Development 2024; 151:dev202249. [PMID: 38180241 PMCID: PMC10906490 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Ocular lens development entails epithelial to fiber cell differentiation, defects in which cause congenital cataracts. We report the first single-cell multiomic atlas of lens development, leveraging snRNA-seq, snATAC-seq and CUT&RUN-seq to discover previously unreported mechanisms of cell fate determination and cataract-linked regulatory networks. A comprehensive profile of cis- and trans-regulatory interactions, including for the cataract-linked transcription factor MAF, is established across a temporal trajectory of fiber cell differentiation. Furthermore, we identify an epigenetic paradigm of cellular differentiation, defined by progressive loss of the H3K27 methylation writer Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). PRC2 localizes to heterochromatin domains across master-regulator transcription factor gene bodies, suggesting it safeguards epithelial cell fate. Moreover, we demonstrate that FGF hyper-stimulation in vivo leads to MAF network activation and the emergence of novel lens cell states. Collectively, these data depict a comprehensive portrait of lens fiber cell differentiation, while defining regulatory effectors of cell identity and cataract formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared A. Tangeman
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Sofia M. Rebull
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Jacob M. Weaver
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Stacy Bendezu-Sayas
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Michael L. Robinson
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Salil A. Lachke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
- Center for Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713, USA
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
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3
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Tangeman JA, Rebull SM, Grajales-Esquivel E, Weaver JM, Bendezu-Sayas S, Robinson ML, Lachke SA, Rio-Tsonis KD. Integrated single-cell multiomics uncovers foundational regulatory mechanisms of lens development and pathology. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.10.548451. [PMID: 37502967 PMCID: PMC10369908 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.10.548451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Ocular lens development entails epithelial to fiber cell differentiation, defects in which cause congenital cataract. We report the first single-cell multiomic atlas of lens development, leveraging snRNA-seq, snATAC-seq, and CUT&RUN-seq to discover novel mechanisms of cell fate determination and cataract-linked regulatory networks. A comprehensive profile of cis- and trans-regulatory interactions, including for the cataract-linked transcription factor MAF, is established across a temporal trajectory of fiber cell differentiation. Further, we divulge a conserved epigenetic paradigm of cellular differentiation, defined by progressive loss of H3K27 methylation writer Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). PRC2 localizes to heterochromatin domains across master-regulator transcription factor gene bodies, suggesting it safeguards epithelial cell fate. Moreover, we demonstrate that FGF hyper-stimulation in vivo leads to MAF network activation and the emergence of novel lens cell states. Collectively, these data depict a comprehensive portrait of lens fiber cell differentiation, while defining regulatory effectors of cell identity and cataract formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared A Tangeman
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Sofia M Rebull
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Erika Grajales-Esquivel
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Jacob M Weaver
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Stacy Bendezu-Sayas
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Michael L Robinson
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
| | - Salil A Lachke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 USA
- Center for Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19713 USA
| | - Katia Del Rio-Tsonis
- Department of Biology and Center for Visual Sciences, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
- Cell, Molecular, and Structural Biology Program, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056 USA
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Disatham J, Brennan L, Cvekl A, Kantorow M. Multiomics Analysis Reveals Novel Genetic Determinants for Lens Differentiation, Structure, and Transparency. Biomolecules 2023; 13:693. [PMID: 37189439 PMCID: PMC10136076 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and data analysis have provided new gateways for identification of novel genome-wide genetic determinants governing tissue development and disease. These advances have revolutionized our understanding of cellular differentiation, homeostasis, and specialized function in multiple tissues. Bioinformatic and functional analysis of these genetic determinants and the pathways they regulate have provided a novel basis for the design of functional experiments to answer a wide range of long-sought biological questions. A well-characterized model for the application of these emerging technologies is the development and differentiation of the ocular lens and how individual pathways regulate lens morphogenesis, gene expression, transparency, and refraction. Recent applications of next-generation sequencing analysis on well-characterized chicken and mouse lens differentiation models using a variety of omics techniques including RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), chip-seq, and CUT&RUN have revealed a wide range of essential biological pathways and chromatin features governing lens structure and function. Multiomics integration of these data has established new gene functions and cellular processes essential for lens formation, homeostasis, and transparency including the identification of novel transcription control pathways, autophagy remodeling pathways, and signal transduction pathways, among others. This review summarizes recent omics technologies applied to the lens, methods for integrating multiomics data, and how these recent technologies have advanced our understanding ocular biology and function. The approach and analysis are relevant to identifying the features and functional requirements of more complex tissues and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Disatham
- Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA; (J.D.); (L.B.)
| | - Lisa Brennan
- Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA; (J.D.); (L.B.)
| | - Ales Cvekl
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
| | - Marc Kantorow
- Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA; (J.D.); (L.B.)
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Liu Z, Huang S, Zheng Y, Zhou T, Hu L, Xiong L, Li DWC, Liu Y. The lens epithelium as a major determinant in the development, maintenance, and regeneration of the crystalline lens. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 92:101112. [PMID: 36055924 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2022.101112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The crystalline lens is a transparent and refractive biconvex structure formed by lens epithelial cells (LECs) and lens fibers. Lens opacity, also known as cataracts, is the leading cause of blindness in the world. LECs are the principal cells of lens throughout human life, exhibiting different physiological properties and functions. During the embryonic stage, LECs proliferate and differentiate into lens fibers, which form the crystalline lens. Genetics and environment are vital factors that influence normal lens development. During maturation, LECs help maintain lens homeostasis through material transport, synthesis and metabolism as well as mitosis and proliferation. If disturbed, this will result in loss of lens transparency. After cataract surgery, the repair potential of LECs is activated and the structure and transparency of the regenerative tissue depends on postoperative microenvironment. This review summarizes recent research advances on the role of LECs in lens development, homeostasis, and regeneration, with a particular focus on the role of cholesterol synthesis (eg., lanosterol synthase) in lens development and homeostasis maintenance, and how the regenerative potential of LECs can be harnessed to develop surgical strategies and improve the outcomes of cataract surgery (Fig. 1). These new insights suggest that LECs are a major determinant of the physiological and pathological state of the lens. Further studies on their molecular biology will offer possibility to explore new approaches for cataract prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Shan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yingfeng Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Tian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Leyi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Lang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - David Wan-Cheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yizhi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Ocular Development and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China.
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Dang H, Peng M, Gu W, Ding G, Sun Y, Hao Z, Wei N, Wang X, Zhang C, Deng A. Investigating the Clinical Characteristics and PITX3Mutations of a Large Chinese Family with Anterior Segment Mesenchymal Dysgenesis and Congenital Posterior Polar Cataract. J Ophthalmol 2023; 2023:1397107. [PMID: 37139083 PMCID: PMC10151149 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1397107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics and pathogenic genetic mutations of a Chinese family with anterior segment mesenchymal dysgenesis and congenital posterior polar cataract. Methods Through family investigation, the family members were examined via slit lamp anterior segment imaging and screened for eye and other diseases by eye B-ultrasound. Genetic test was performed on the blood samples of the fourth family generation (23 people) via whole exome sequencing (trio-WES) and Sanger sequencing. Results Among the 36 members in four family generations, there were 11 living cases with different degrees of ocular abnormalities, such as cataracts, leukoplakia, and small cornea. All patients who received the genetic test had the heterozygous frameshift mutation c.640_656dup (p.G220Pfs∗95) on exon 4 of the PITX3 gene. This mutation was cosegregated with the clinical phenotypes in the family and thus might be one of the genetic factors that cause the corresponding ocular abnormalities in this family. Conclusion The congenital posterior polar cataract with or without anterior interstitial dysplasia (ASMD) of this family was inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, and the frameshift mutation (c.640_656dup) in the PITX3 gene was the cause of ocular abnormalities observed in this family. This study is of great significance for guiding prenatal diagnosis and disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Min Peng
- Zhigene Translational Medicine Research Center Co. Ltd., Beijing 100176, China
| | - Weiyue Gu
- Zhigene Translational Medicine Research Center Co. Ltd., Beijing 100176, China
| | - Gang Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Yuqin Sun
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Zhongkai Hao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261000, China
| | - Ning Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Chenming Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jinan Second People's Hospital, Jinan 250200, China
| | - Aijun Deng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261000, China
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Alaiz Noya M, Berti F, Dietrich S. Comprehensive expression analysis for the core cell cycle regulators in the chicken embryo reveals novel tissue-specific synexpression groups and similarities and differences with expression in mouse, frog and zebrafish. J Anat 2022; 241:42-66. [PMID: 35146756 PMCID: PMC9178385 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13629] [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: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The core cell cycle machinery is conserved from yeast to humans, and hence it is assumed that all vertebrates share the same set of players. Yet during vertebrate evolution, the genome was duplicated twice, followed by a further genome duplication in teleost fish. Thereafter, distinct genes were retained in different vertebrate lineages; some individual gene duplications also occurred. To which extent these diversifying tendencies were compensated by retaining the same expression patterns across homologous genes is not known. This study for the first time undertook a comprehensive expression analysis for the core cell cycle regulators in the chicken, focusing in on early neurula and pharyngula stages of development, with the latter representing the vertebrate phylotypic stage. We also compared our data with published data for the mouse, Xenopus and zebrafish, the other established vertebrate models. Our work shows that, while many genes are expressed widely, some are upregulated or specifically expressed in defined tissues of the chicken embryo, forming novel synexpression groups with markers for distinct developmental pathways. Moreover, we found that in the neural tube and in the somite, mRNAs of some of the genes investigated accumulate in a specific subcellular localisation, pointing at a novel link between the site of mRNA translation, cell cycle control and interkinetic nuclear movements. Finally, we show that expression patterns of orthologous genes may differ in the four vertebrate models. Thus, for any study investigating cell proliferation, cell differentiation, tissue regeneration, stem cell behaviour and cancer/cancer therapy, it has to be carefully examined which of the observed effects are due to the specific model organism used, and which can be generalised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Alaiz Noya
- Institute for Biomedical and Biomolecular Science (IBBS), School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK.,Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Alicante, Spain
| | - Federica Berti
- Institute for Biomedical and Biomolecular Science (IBBS), School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK.,Life Sciences Solutions, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Monza, Italy
| | - Susanne Dietrich
- Institute for Biomedical and Biomolecular Science (IBBS), School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
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Yamada R, Oguri A, Fujiki K, Shirahige K, Hirate Y, Kanai-Azuma M, Takezoe H, Akimoto Y, Takahashi N, Kanai Y. MAB21L1 modulates gene expression and DNA metabolic processes in the lens placode. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:dmm049251. [PMID: 34779479 PMCID: PMC8713989 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in human MAB21L1 cause aberrations in lens ectoderm morphogenesis and lead to congenital cerebellar, ocular, craniofacial and genital (COFG) syndrome. Murine Mab21l1-null mutations cause severe cell-autonomous defects in lens formation, leading to microphthalmia; therefore, Mab21l1-null mice are used as a mouse model for COFG syndrome. In this study, we investigated the early-onset single-cell-level phenotypes of murine Mab21l1-null lens ectoderms using electron microscopy and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Electron microscopy and immunohistochemical analyses indicated endoplasmic reticulum stress at the 24- to 26-somite stage in Mab21l1-null lens placodes. scRNA-seq analysis revealed that 131 genes were downregulated and 148 were upregulated in Mab21l1-null lens ectoderms relative to the wild type. We successfully identified 21 lens-specific genes that were downregulated in Mab21l1-null cells, including three key genes involved in lens formation: Pitx3, Maf and Sfrp2. Moreover, gene ontology analysis of the 279 differentially expressed genes indicated enrichment in housekeeping genes associated with DNA/nucleotide metabolism prior to cell death. These findings suggest that MAB21L1 acts as a nuclear factor that modulates not only lens-specific gene expression but also DNA/nucleotide metabolic processes during lens placode formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichi Yamada
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- RNA Company Limited, Tokyo 144-0051, Japan
| | - Akira Oguri
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Katsunori Fujiki
- Laboratory of Genome Structure and Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Shirahige
- Laboratory of Genome Structure and Function, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Hirate
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | | | - Yoshihiro Akimoto
- Department of Anatomy, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo 181-8611, Japan
| | - Naoki Takahashi
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- RNA Company Limited, Tokyo 144-0051, Japan
| | - Yoshiakira Kanai
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, the University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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9
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Tran TQ, Kioussi C. Pitx genes in development and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4921-4938. [PMID: 33844046 PMCID: PMC11073205 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03833-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Homeobox genes encode sequence-specific transcription factors (SSTFs) that recognize specific DNA sequences and regulate organogenesis in all eukaryotes. They are essential in specifying spatial and temporal cell identity and as a result, their mutations often cause severe developmental defects. Pitx genes belong to the PRD class of the highly evolutionary conserved homeobox genes in all animals. Vertebrates possess three Pitx paralogs, Pitx1, Pitx2, and Pitx3 while non-vertebrates have only one Pitx gene. The ancient role of regulating left-right (LR) asymmetry is conserved while new functions emerge to afford more complex body plan and functionalities. In mouse, Pitx1 regulates hindlimb tissue patterning and pituitary development. Pitx2 is essential for the development of the oral cavity and abdominal wall while regulates the formation and symmetry of other organs including pituitary, heart, gut, lung among others by controlling growth control genes upon activation of the Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway. Pitx3 is essential for lens development and migration and survival of the dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra. Pitx gene mutations are linked to various congenital defects and cancers in humans. Pitx gene family has the potential to offer a new approach in regenerative medicine and aid in identifying new drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thai Q Tran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Chrissa Kioussi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
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Bell SJ, Oluonye N, Harding P, Moosajee M. Congenital cataract: a guide to genetic and clinical management. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN RARE DISEASE 2020; 1:2633004020938061. [PMID: 37180497 PMCID: PMC10032449 DOI: 10.1177/2633004020938061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide 20,000-40,000 children with congenital or childhood cataract are born every year with varying degrees and patterns of lens opacification with a broad aetiology. In most cases of bilateral cataract, a causative genetic mutation can be identified, with autosomal dominant inheritance being most common in 44% of cases. Variants in genes involve lens-specific proteins or those that regulate eye development, thus giving rise to other associated ocular abnormalities. Approximately 15% of cases have systemic features, hence paediatric input is essential to minimise comorbidities and support overall development of children at high risk of visual impairment. In some metabolic conditions, congenital cataract may be the presenting sign, and therefore prompt diagnosis is important where there is an available treatment. Multidisciplinary management of children is essential, including ophthalmic surgeons, orthoptists, paediatricians, geneticists and genetic counsellors, and should extend beyond the medical team to include school and local paediatric visual support services. Early surgery and close follow up in ophthalmology is important to optimise visual potential and prevent amblyopia. Routine genetic testing is essential for the complete clinical management of patients, with next-generation sequencing of 115 genes shown to expedite molecular diagnosis, streamline care pathways and inform genetic counselling and reproductive options for the future. Lay abstract Childhood cataract: how to manage patients Cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye. Cataract occurring in children has many different causes, which may include infections passed from mother to child during pregnancy, trauma, medications and exposure to radiation. In most cases of cataract occurring in both eyes, a genetic cause can be found which may be inherited from parents or occur sporadically in the developing baby itself while in the womb. Cataracts may occur on their own, with other eye conditions or be present with other disorders in the body as part of a syndrome. Genetic testing is important for all children with cataract as it can provide valuable information about cause, inheritance and risk to further children and signpost any other features of the disease in the rest of the body, permitting the assembly of the correct multidisciplinary care team. Genetic testing currently involves screening for mutations in 115 genes already known to cause cataract and has been shown to expedite diagnosis and help better manage children. Genetic counselling services can support families in understanding their diagnosis and inform future family planning. In order to optimise vision, early surgery for cataract in children is important. This is because the brain is still developing and an unobstructed pathway for light to reach the back of the eye is required for normal visual development. Any obstruction (such as cataract) if left untreated may lead to permanent sight impairment or blindness, even if it is removed later. A multidisciplinary team involved in the care of a child with cataract should include ophthalmic surgeons, orthoptists, paediatricians, geneticists and genetic counsellors, and should extend beyond the medical team to include school and local child visual support services. They will help to diagnose and manage systemic conditions, optimise vision potential and help patients and their families access best supportive care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ngozi Oluonye
- Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital,
London, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street
Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | | | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology 11-43 Bath Street
London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Department of Genetics, Moorfields Eye Hospital,
London, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, Great Ormond Street
Hospital for Children, London, UK
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11
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Abstract
Recent molecular studies of spitzoid neoplasms have identified mutually exclusive kinase fusions involving ROS1, ALK, RET, BRAF, NTRK1, MET, and NTRK3 as early initiating genomic events. Pigmented spindle cell nevus (PSCN) of Reed is a morphologic variant of Spitz and may be very diagnostically challenging, having histologic features concerning for melanoma. Their occurrence in younger patients, lack of association to sun exposure, and rapid early growth phase similar to Spitz nevi suggest fusions may also play a significant role in these lesions. However, to date, there is little data in the literature focused on the molecular characterization of PSCN of Reed with next-generation sequencing. We analyzed a total of 129 melanocytic neoplasms with RNA sequencing including 67 spitzoid neoplasms (10 Spitz nevi, 44 atypical Spitz tumors, 13 spitzoid melanomas) and 23 PSCN of Reed. Although only 2 of 67 (3.0%) of spitzoid lesions had NTRK3 fusions, 13 of 23 (57%) of PSCN of Reed harbored NTRK3 fusions with 5' partners ETV6 (12p13) in 2 cases and MYO5A (15q21) in 11 cases. NTRK3 fusions were confirmed with a fluorescent in situ hybridization break-apart probe. The presence of a NTRK3 fusion correlated with younger age (P=0.021) and adnexal extension (P=0.001). Other minor fusions identified in PSCN of Reed included MYO5A-MERTK (2), MYO5A-ROS1, MYO5A-RET, and ETV6-PITX3 leading to a total of 78% with fusions. Our study suggests that the majority of PSCN of Reed are the result of genomic fusions, and the most frequent and characteristic genomic aberration is an NTRK3 fusion.
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12
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Martynova E, Bouchard M, Musil LS, Cvekl A. Identification of Novel Gata3 Distal Enhancers Active in Mouse Embryonic Lens. Dev Dyn 2018; 247:1186-1198. [PMID: 30295986 PMCID: PMC6246825 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tissue-specific transcriptional programs during normal development require tight control by distal cis-regulatory elements, such as enhancers, with specific DNA sequences recognized by transcription factors, coactivators, and chromatin remodeling enzymes. Gata3 is a sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factor that regulates formation of multiple tissues and organs, including inner ear, lens, mammary gland, T-cells, urogenital system, and thyroid gland. In the eye, Gata3 has a highly restricted expression domain in the posterior part of the lens vesicle; however, the underlying regulatory mechanisms are unknown. RESULTS Here we describe the identification of a novel bipartite Gata3 lens-specific enhancer located ∼18 kb upstream from its transcriptional start site. We also found that a 5-kb Gata3 promoter possesses low activity in the lens. The bipartite enhancer contains arrays of AP-1, Ets-, and Smad1/5-binding sites as well as binding sites for lens-associated DNA-binding factors. Transient transfection studies of the promoter with the bipartite enhancer showed enhanced activation by BMP4 and FGF2. CONCLUSIONS These studies identify a novel distal enhancer of Gata3 with high activity in lens and indicate that BMP and FGF signaling can up-regulate expression of Gata3 in differentiating lens fiber cells through the identified Gata3 enhancer and promoter elements. Developmental Dynamics 247:1186-1198, 2018. © 2018 The Authors. Developmental Dynamics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Anatomists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Martynova
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Maxime Bouchard
- Goodman Cancer Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Linda S Musil
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Oregon Health Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Ales Cvekl
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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13
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Phenotype–genotype correlations and emerging pathways in ocular anterior segment dysgenesis. Hum Genet 2018; 138:899-915. [DOI: 10.1007/s00439-018-1935-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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14
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Anand D, Agrawal SA, Slavotinek A, Lachke SA. Mutation update of transcription factor genes FOXE3, HSF4, MAF, and PITX3 causing cataracts and other developmental ocular defects. Hum Mutat 2018; 39:471-494. [PMID: 29314435 PMCID: PMC5839989 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the transcription factor genes FOXE3, HSF4, MAF, and PITX3 cause congenital lens defects including cataracts that may be accompanied by defects in other components of the eye or in nonocular tissues. We comprehensively describe here all the variants in FOXE3, HSF4, MAF, and PITX3 genes linked to human developmental defects. A total of 52 variants for FOXE3, 18 variants for HSF4, 20 variants for MAF, and 19 variants for PITX3 identified so far in isolated cases or within families are documented. This effort reveals FOXE3, HSF4, MAF, and PITX3 to have 33, 16, 18, and 7 unique causal mutations, respectively. Loss-of-function mutant animals for these genes have served to model the pathobiology of the associated human defects, and we discuss the currently known molecular function of these genes, particularly with emphasis on their role in ocular development. Finally, we make the detailed FOXE3, HSF4, MAF, and PITX3 variant information available in the Leiden Online Variation Database (LOVD) platform at https://www.LOVD.nl/FOXE3, https://www.LOVD.nl/HSF4, https://www.LOVD.nl/MAF, and https://www.LOVD.nl/PITX3. Thus, this article informs on key variants in transcription factor genes linked to cataract, aphakia, corneal opacity, glaucoma, microcornea, microphthalmia, anterior segment mesenchymal dysgenesis, and Ayme-Gripp syndrome, and facilitates their access through Web-based databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Anand
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 USA
| | - Smriti A. Agrawal
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 USA
| | - Anne Slavotinek
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics, University of California, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, San Francisco, CA 19716 USA
| | - Salil A. Lachke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 USA
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19711 USA
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15
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Vidya NG, Ganatra D, Vasavada AR, Rajkumar S. Association of FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala and PITX3-p.Ile95Ile Polymorphisms with Congenital Cataract and Microphthalmia. J Ophthalmic Vis Res 2018; 13:397-402. [PMID: 30479708 PMCID: PMC6210873 DOI: 10.4103/jovr.jovr_193_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the association of FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala (rs34082359) and PITX3-p.Ile95Ile (rs2281983) polymorphisms with congenital cataract and microphthalmia in a western Indian population. Methods: FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala (c.510C>T) and PITX3-p.Ile95Ile (c.285C>T) polymorphisms were genotyped in 561 subjects consisting of 242 cases with congenital cataract, 52 with microphthalmia, and 267 controls using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Approximately 10% of samples were randomly sequenced for each single nucleotide polymorphism to confirm the genotypes. The prediction of mRNA secondary structure for polymorphism FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala and PITX3-p.Ile95Ile was performed. Results: A significantly high frequency of T allele and a borderline significance in the frequency of TT genotype of FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala was observed in microphthalmia cases, as compared to controls [T allele: OR: [CI] = 1.8 [1.15-2.72], P = 0.0115; TT: OR [CI] = 2.9 [1.14-7.16], P = 0.0291). The frequency of CC genotype was significantly low in microphthalmia cases when compared to controls (CC: OR [CI] = 0.5 [0.24-0.86, P = 0.0150). There was no significant difference in the allele and genotype frequencies of PITX3-p.Ile95Ile between cases and controls. A slight free energy change was observed in the secondary structure of mRNA between the FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala C-allele (-917.60 kcal/mol) and T-allele (-916.80 kcal/mol) and between PITX3-p.Ile95Ile C-allele (-659.80 kcal/mol) and T-allele (-658.40 kcal/mol). Conclusion: The present findings indicate that FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala ‘T’ allele and ‘TT’ genotype could be predisposing factors for microphthalmia while ‘CC’ genotype might play a protective role against it. A reduction in the free energy change associated with FOXE3-p.Ala170Ala ‘T’ allele could further contribute towards disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nair Gopinathan Vidya
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.,PhD Scholar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Darshini Ganatra
- PhD Scholar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India.,Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Abhay R Vasavada
- Department of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, Raghudeep Eye Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Sankaranarayanan Rajkumar
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Iladevi Cataract and IOL Research Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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16
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Holmes EE, Goltz D, Sailer V, Jung M, Meller S, Uhl B, Dietrich J, Röhler M, Ellinger J, Kristiansen G, Dietrich D. PITX3 promoter methylation is a prognostic biomarker for biochemical recurrence-free survival in prostate cancer patients after radical prostatectomy. Clin Epigenetics 2016; 8:104. [PMID: 27708722 PMCID: PMC5037587 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-016-0270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular biomarkers that might help to distinguish between more aggressive and clinically insignificant prostate cancers (PCa) are still urgently needed. Aberrant DNA methylation as a common molecular alteration in PCa seems to be a promising source for such biomarkers. In this study, PITX3 DNA methylation (mPITX3) and its potential role as a prognostic biomarker were investigated. Furthermore, mPITX3 was analyzed in combination with the established PCa methylation biomarker PITX2 (mPITX2). METHODS mPITX3 and mPITX2 were assessed by a quantitative real-time PCR and by means of the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip. BeadChip data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network. DNA methylation differences between normal adjacent, benign hyperplastic, and carcinomatous prostate tissues were examined in the TCGA dataset as well as in prostatectomy specimens from the University Hospital Bonn. Retrospective analyses of biochemical recurrence (BCR) were conducted in a training cohort (n = 498) from the TCGA and an independent validation cohort (n = 300) from the University Hospital Bonn. All patients received radical prostatectomy. RESULTS In PCa tissue, mPITX3 was increased significantly compared to normal and benign hyperplastic tissue. In univariate Cox proportional hazards analyses, mPITX3 showed a significant prognostic value for BCR (training cohort: hazard ratio (HR) = 1.83 (95 % CI 1.07-3.11), p = 0.027; validation cohort: HR = 2.56 (95 % CI 1.44-4.54), p = 0.001). A combined evaluation with PITX2 methylation further revealed that hypermethylation of a single PITX gene member (either PITX2 or PITX3) identifies an intermediate risk group. CONCLUSIONS PITX3 DNA methylation alone and in combination with PITX2 is a promising biomarker for the risk stratification of PCa patients and adds relevant prognostic information to common clinically implemented parameters. Further studies are required to determine whether the results are transferable to a biopsy-based patient cohort. Trial registration: Patients for this unregistered study were enrolled retrospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Eva Holmes
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Diane Goltz
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Verena Sailer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY USA
| | - Maria Jung
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Sebastian Meller
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Barbara Uhl
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jörn Dietrich
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Magda Röhler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jörg Ellinger
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Glen Kristiansen
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Dimo Dietrich
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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17
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He S, Limi S, McGreal RS, Xie Q, Brennan LA, Kantorow WL, Kokavec J, Majumdar R, Hou H, Edelmann W, Liu W, Ashery-Padan R, Zavadil J, Kantorow M, Skoultchi AI, Stopka T, Cvekl A. Chromatin remodeling enzyme Snf2h regulates embryonic lens differentiation and denucleation. Development 2016; 143:1937-47. [PMID: 27246713 PMCID: PMC4920164 DOI: 10.1242/dev.135285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ocular lens morphogenesis is a model for investigating mechanisms of cellular differentiation, spatial and temporal gene expression control, and chromatin regulation. Brg1 (Smarca4) and Snf2h (Smarca5) are catalytic subunits of distinct ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes implicated in transcriptional regulation. Previous studies have shown that Brg1 regulates both lens fiber cell differentiation and organized degradation of their nuclei (denucleation). Here, we employed a conditional Snf2h(flox) mouse model to probe the cellular and molecular mechanisms of lens formation. Depletion of Snf2h induces premature and expanded differentiation of lens precursor cells forming the lens vesicle, implicating Snf2h as a key regulator of lens vesicle polarity through spatial control of Prox1, Jag1, p27(Kip1) (Cdkn1b) and p57(Kip2) (Cdkn1c) gene expression. The abnormal Snf2h(-/-) fiber cells also retain their nuclei. RNA profiling of Snf2h(-/) (-) and Brg1(-/-) eyes revealed differences in multiple transcripts, including prominent downregulation of those encoding Hsf4 and DNase IIβ, which are implicated in the denucleation process. In summary, our data suggest that Snf2h is essential for the establishment of lens vesicle polarity, partitioning of prospective lens epithelial and fiber cell compartments, lens fiber cell differentiation, and lens fiber cell nuclear degradation.
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Grants
- R01 EY012200 NEI NIH HHS
- R01 CA079057 NCI NIH HHS
- R01 DK096266 NIDDK NIH HHS
- R01 GM116143 NIGMS NIH HHS
- R01 EY013022 NEI NIH HHS
- R01 CA076329 NCI NIH HHS
- T32 GM007491 NIGMS NIH HHS
- R56 CA079057 NCI NIH HHS
- R01 EY014237 NEI NIH HHS
- 001 World Health Organization
- R01 EY022645 NEI NIH HHS
- Grant support: R01 EY012200 (AC), EY014237 (AC), EY014237-7S1 (AC), EY013022 (MK), CA079057 (AIS), EY022645 (WL), T32 GM007491 (SL), GACR: P305/12/1033 (TS, JK), UNCE: 204021 (TS, JK), and an unrestricted grant from Research to Prevent Blindness to the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. TS is member of the BIOCEV ? Biotechnology and Biomedicine Centre of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University (CZ.1.05/1.1.00/02.0109) supported by the European Regional Development Fund. The Israel Science Foundation 610/10, the Israel Ministry of Science 36494, the Ziegler Foundation and the Binational Science Foundation (2013016) to RAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuying He
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Saima Limi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Rebecca S McGreal
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Lisa A Brennan
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Wanda Lee Kantorow
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Juraj Kokavec
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 121 08 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Romit Majumdar
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Harry Hou
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Winfried Edelmann
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Ruth Ashery-Padan
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine Tel-Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Jiri Zavadil
- Department of Pathology and NYU Center for Health Informatics and Bioinformatics, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis Section, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon Cedex 08 69372, France
| | - Marc Kantorow
- Department of Biomedical Science, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA
| | - Arthur I Skoultchi
- Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Tomas Stopka
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 121 08 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ales Cvekl
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences and Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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18
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Anand D, Lachke SA. Systems biology of lens development: A paradigm for disease gene discovery in the eye. Exp Eye Res 2016; 156:22-33. [PMID: 26992779 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, the biology of the developing lens has been investigated using molecular genetics-based approaches in various vertebrate model systems. These efforts, involving target gene knockouts or knockdowns, have led to major advances in our understanding of lens morphogenesis and the pathological basis of cataracts, as well as of other lens related eye defects. In particular, we now have a functional understanding of regulators such as Pax6, Six3, Sox2, Oct1 (Pou2f1), Meis1, Pnox1, Zeb2 (Sip1), Mab21l1, Foxe3, Tfap2a (Ap2-alpha), Pitx3, Sox11, Prox1, Sox1, c-Maf, Mafg, Mafk, Hsf4, Fgfrs, Bmp7, and Tdrd7 in this tissue. However, whether these individual regulators interact or their targets overlap, and the significance of such interactions during lens morphogenesis, is not well defined. The arrival of high-throughput approaches for gene expression profiling (microarrays, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq), etc.), which can be coupled with chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) or RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, along with improved computational resources and publically available datasets (e.g. those containing comprehensive protein-protein, protein-DNA information), presents new opportunities to advance our understanding of the lens tissue on a global systems level. Such systems-level knowledge will lead to the derivation of the underlying lens gene regulatory network (GRN), defined as a circuit map of the regulator-target interactions functional in lens development, which can be applied to expedite cataract gene discovery. In this review, we cover the various systems-level approaches such as microarrays, RNA-seq, and ChIP that are already being applied to lens studies and discuss strategies for assembling and interpreting these vast amounts of high-throughput information for effective dispersion to the scientific community. In particular, we discuss strategies for effective interpretation of this new information in the context of the rich knowledge obtained through the application of traditional single-gene focused experiments on the lens. Finally, we discuss our vision for integrating these diverse high-throughput datasets in a single web-based user-friendly tool iSyTE (integrated Systems Tool for Eye gene discovery) - a resource that is already proving effective in the identification and characterization of genes linked to lens development and cataract. We anticipate that application of a similar approach to other ocular tissues such as the retina and the cornea, and even other organ systems, will significantly impact disease gene discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Anand
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Salil A Lachke
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA; Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.
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19
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Reis LM, Semina EV. Conserved genetic pathways associated with microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 105:96-113. [PMID: 26046913 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The human eye is a complex organ whose development requires extraordinary coordination of developmental processes. The conservation of ocular developmental steps in vertebrates suggests possible common genetic mechanisms. Genetic diseases involving the eye represent a leading cause of blindness in children and adults. During the last decades, there has been an exponential increase in genetic studies of ocular disorders. In this review, we summarize current success in identification of genes responsible for microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma (MAC) phenotypes, which are associated with early defects in embryonic eye development. Studies in animal models for the orthologous genes identified overlapping phenotypes for most factors, confirming the conservation of their function in vertebrate development. These animal models allow for further investigation of the mechanisms of MAC, integration of various identified genes into common developmental pathways and finally, provide an avenue for the development and testing of therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Reis
- Department of Pediatrics and Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Elena V Semina
- Department of Pediatrics and Children's Research Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Cell Biology Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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20
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Wada K, Matsushima Y, Tada T, Hasegawa S, Obara Y, Yoshizawa Y, Takahashi G, Hiai H, Shimanuki M, Suzuki S, Saitou J, Yamamoto N, Ichikawa M, Watanabe K, Kikkawa Y. Expression of truncated PITX3 in the developing lens leads to microphthalmia and aphakia in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111432. [PMID: 25347445 PMCID: PMC4210183 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microphthalmia is a severe ocular disorder, and this condition is typically caused by mutations in transcription factors that are involved in eye development. Mice carrying mutations in these transcription factors would be useful tools for defining the mechanisms underlying developmental eye disorders. We discovered a new spontaneous recessive microphthalmos mouse mutant in the Japanese wild-derived inbred strain KOR1/Stm. The homozygous mutant mice were histologically characterized as microphthalmic by the absence of crystallin in the lens, a condition referred to as aphakia. By positional cloning, we identified the nonsense mutation c.444C>A outside the genomic region that encodes the homeodomain of the paired-like homeodomain transcription factor 3 gene (Pitx3) as the mutation responsible for the microphthalmia and aphakia. We examined Pitx3 mRNA expression of mutant mice during embryonic stages using RT-PCR and found that the expression levels are higher than in wild-type mice. Pitx3 over-expression in the lens during developmental stages was also confirmed at the protein level in the microphthalmos mutants via immunohistochemical analyses. Although lens fiber differentiation was not observed in the mutants, strong PITX3 protein signals were observed in the lens vesicles of the mutant lens. Thus, we speculated that abnormal PITX3, which lacks the C-terminus (including the OAR domain) as a result of the nonsense mutation, is expressed in mutant lenses. We showed that the expression of the downstream genes Foxe3, Prox1, and Mip was altered because of the Pitx3 mutation, with large reductions in the lens vesicles in the mutants. Similar profiles were observed by immunohistochemical analysis of these proteins. The expression profiles of crystallins were also altered in the mutants. Therefore, we speculated that the microphthalmos/aphakia in this mutant is caused by the expression of truncated PITX3, resulting in the abnormal expression of downstream targets and lens fiber proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Wada
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshibumi Matsushima
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
- Research Institute for Clinical Oncology, Saitama Cancer Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tomoki Tada
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
| | - Sayaka Hasegawa
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
| | - Yo Obara
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Yoshizawa
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
| | - Gou Takahashi
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Hiai
- Medical Innovation Center, Graduate School of Medicine Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Midori Shimanuki
- Basic Research Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sari Suzuki
- Department of Bioproduction, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Abashiri, Japan
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junichi Saitou
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Naoki Yamamoto
- Institute of Joint Research, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Masumi Ichikawa
- Basic Research Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Watanabe
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Kikkawa
- Mammalian Genetics Project, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Mochizuki T, Masai I. The lens equator: a platform for molecular machinery that regulates the switch from cell proliferation to differentiation in the vertebrate lens. Dev Growth Differ 2014; 56:387-401. [PMID: 24720470 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The vertebrate lens is a transparent, spheroidal tissue, located in the anterior region of the eye that focuses visual images on the retina. During development, surface ectoderm associated with the neural retina invaginates to form the lens vesicle. Cells in the posterior half of the lens vesicle differentiate into primary lens fiber cells, which form the lens fiber core, while cells in the anterior half maintain a proliferative state as a monolayer lens epithelium. After formation of the primary fiber core, lens epithelial cells start to differentiate into lens fiber cells at the interface between the lens epithelium and the primary lens fiber core, which is called the equator. Differentiating lens fiber cells elongate and cover the old lens fiber core, resulting in growth of the lens during development. Thus, lens fiber differentiation is spatially regulated and the equator functions as a platform that regulates the switch from cell proliferation to cell differentiation. Since the 1970s, the mechanism underlying lens fiber cell differentiation has been intensively studied, and several regulatory factors that regulate lens fiber cell differentiation have been identified. In this review, we focus on the lens equator, where these regulatory factors crosstalk and cooperate to regulate lens fiber differentiation. Normally, lens epithelial cells must pass through the equator to start lens fiber differentiation. However, there are reports that when the lens epithelium structure is collapsed, lens fiber cell differentiation occurs without passing the equator. We also discuss a possible mechanism that represses lens fiber cell differentiation in lens epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Mochizuki
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, 1919-1 Tancha, Onna, Okinawa, 904-0495, Japan
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22
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New insights into the mechanism of lens development using zebra fish. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 296:1-61. [PMID: 22559937 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394307-1.00001-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
On the basis of recent advances in molecular biology, genetics, and live-embryo imaging, direct comparisons between zebra fish and human lens development are being made. The zebra fish has numerous experimental advantages for investigation of fundamental biomedical problems that are often best studied in the lens. The physical characteristics of visible light can account for the highly coordinated cell differentiation during formation of a beautifully transparent, refractile, symmetric optical element, the biological lens. The accessibility of the zebra fish lens for direct investigation during rapid development will result in new knowledge about basic functional mechanisms of epithelia-mesenchymal transitions, cell fate, cell-matrix interactions, cytoskeletal interactions, cytoplasmic crowding, membrane transport, cell adhesion, cell signaling, and metabolic specialization. The lens is well known as a model for characterization of cell and molecular aging. We review the recent advances in understanding vertebrate lens development conducted with zebra fish.
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23
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Sousounis K, Tsonis PA. Patterns of gene expression in microarrays and expressed sequence tags from normal and cataractous lenses. Hum Genomics 2012; 6:14. [PMID: 23244575 PMCID: PMC3563465 DOI: 10.1186/1479-7364-6-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In this contribution, we have examined the patterns of gene expression in normal and cataractous lenses as presented in five different papers using microarrays and expressed sequence tags. The purpose was to evaluate unique and common patterns of gene expression during development, aging and cataracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sousounis
- Department of Biology and Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH 45469-2320, USA
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24
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Hooker L, Smoczer C, KhosrowShahian F, Wolanski M, Crawford MJ. Microarray-based identification of Pitx3 targets during Xenopus embryogenesis. Dev Dyn 2012; 241:1487-505. [PMID: 22826267 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.23836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unexpected phenotypes resulting from morpholino-mediated translational knockdown of Pitx3 in Xenopus laevis required further investigation regarding the genetic networks in which the gene might play a role. Microarray analysis was, therefore, used to assess global transcriptional changes downstream of Pitx3. RESULTS From the large data set generated, selected candidate genes were confirmed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization. CONCLUSIONS We have identified four genes as likely direct targets of Pitx3 action: Pax6, β Crystallin-b1 (Crybb1), Hes7.1, and Hes4. Four others show equivocal promise worthy of consideration: Vent2, and Ripply2 (aka Ledgerline or Stripy), eFGF and RXRα. We also describe the expression pattern of additional and novel genes that are Pitx3-sensitive but that are unlikely to be direct targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Hooker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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25
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Ogino H, Ochi H, Reza HM, Yasuda K. Transcription factors involved in lens development from the preplacodal ectoderm. Dev Biol 2012; 363:333-47. [PMID: 22269169 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Revised: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Lens development is a stepwise process accompanied by the sequential activation of transcription factors. Transcription factor genes can be classified into three groups according to their functions: the first group comprises preplacodal genes, which are implicated in the formation of the preplacodal ectoderm that serves as a common primordium for cranial sensory tissues, including the lens. The second group comprises lens-specification genes, which establish the lens-field within the preplacodal ectoderm. The third group comprises lens-differentiation genes, which promote lens morphogenesis after the optic vesicle makes contact with the presumptive lens ectoderm. Analyses of the regulatory interactions between these genes have provided an overview of lens development, highlighting crucial roles for positive cross-regulation in fate specification and for feed-forward regulation in the execution of terminal differentiation. This overview also sheds light upon the mechanisms of how preplacodal gene activities lead to the activation of genes involved in lens-specification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajime Ogino
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan.
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26
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Novel recessive BFSP2 and PITX3 mutations: Insights into mutational mechanisms from consanguineous populations. Genet Med 2011; 13:978-81. [DOI: 10.1097/gim.0b013e31822623d5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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27
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The lens in focus: a comparison of lens development in Drosophila and vertebrates. Mol Genet Genomics 2011; 286:189-213. [PMID: 21877135 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-011-0643-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of the eye has been a major subject of study dating back centuries. The advent of molecular genetics offered the surprising finding that morphologically distinct eyes rely on conserved regulatory gene networks for their formation. While many of these advances often stemmed from studies of the compound eye of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and later translated to discoveries in vertebrate systems, studies on vertebrate lens development far outnumber those in Drosophila. This may be largely historical, since Spemann and Mangold's paradigm of tissue induction was discovered in the amphibian lens. Recent studies on lens development in Drosophila have begun to define molecular commonalities with the vertebrate lens. Here, we provide an overview of Drosophila lens development, discussing intrinsic and extrinsic factors controlling lens cell specification and differentiation. We then summarize key morphological and molecular events in vertebrate lens development, emphasizing regulatory factors and networks strongly associated with both systems. Finally, we provide a comparative analysis that highlights areas of research that would help further clarify the degree of conservation between the formation of dioptric systems in invertebrates and vertebrates.
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28
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MIP/Aquaporin 0 represents a direct transcriptional target of PITX3 in the developing lens. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21122. [PMID: 21698120 PMCID: PMC3117865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The PITX3 bicoid-type homeodomain transcription factor plays an important role in lens development in vertebrates. PITX3 deficiency results in a spectrum of phenotypes from isolated cataracts to microphthalmia in humans, and lens degeneration in mice and zebrafish. While identification of downstream targets of PITX3 is vital for understanding the mechanisms of normal ocular development and human disease, these targets remain largely unknown. To isolate genes that are directly regulated by PITX3, we performed a search for genomic sequences that contain evolutionarily conserved bicoid/PITX3 binding sites and are located in the proximity of known genes. Two bicoid sites that are conserved from zebrafish to human were identified within the human promoter of the major intrinsic protein of lens fiber, MIP/AQP0. MIP/AQP0 deficiency was previously shown to be associated with lens defects in humans and mice. We demonstrate by both chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assay that PITX3 binds to MIP/AQP0 promoter region in vivo and is able to interact with both bicoid sites in vitro. In addition, we show that wild-type PITX3 is able to activate the MIP/AQP0 promoter via interaction with the proximal bicoid site in cotransfection experiments and that the introduction of mutations disrupting binding to this site abolishes this activation. Furthermore, mutant forms of PITX3 fail to produce the same levels of transactivation as wild-type when cotransfected with the MIP/AQP0 reporter. Finally, knockdown of pitx3 in zebrafish affects formation of a DNA-protein complex associated with mip1 promoter sequences; and examination of expression in pitx3 morphant and control zebrafish revealed a delay in and reduction of mip1 expression in pitx3-deficient embryos. Therefore, our data suggest that PITX3 is involved in direct regulation of MIP/AQP0 expression and that the alteration of MIP/AQP0 expression is likely to contribute to the lens phenotype in cataract patients with PITX3 mutations.
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Lachke SA, Maas RL. Building the developmental oculome: systems biology in vertebrate eye development and disease. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2011; 2:305-323. [PMID: 20836031 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The vertebrate eye is a sophisticated multicomponent organ that has been actively studied for over a century, resulting in the identification of the major embryonic and molecular events involved in its complex developmental program. Data gathered so far provides sufficient information to construct a rudimentary network of the various signaling molecules, transcription factors, and their targets for several key stages of this process. With the advent of genomic technologies, there has been a rapid expansion in our ability to collect and process biological information, and the use of systems-level approaches to study specific aspects of vertebrate eye development has already commenced. This is beginning to result in the definition of the dynamic developmental networks that operate in ocular tissues, and the interactions of such networks between coordinately developing ocular tissues. Such an integrative understanding of the eye by a comprehensive systems-level analysis can be termed the 'oculome', and that of serial developmental stages of the eye as it transits from its initiation to a fully formed functional organ represents the 'developmental oculome'. Construction of the developmental oculome will allow novel mechanistic insights that are essential for organ regeneration-based therapeutic applications, and the generation of computational models for eye disease states to predict the effects of drugs. This review discusses our present understanding of two of the individual components of the developing vertebrate eye--the lens and retina--at both the molecular and systems levels, and outlines the directions and tools required for construction of the developmental oculome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salil A Lachke
- Division of Genetics, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Richard L Maas
- Division of Genetics, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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30
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Martinez G, de Iongh R. The lens epithelium in ocular health and disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2010; 42:1945-63. [PMID: 20883819 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2010.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2010] [Revised: 09/19/2010] [Accepted: 09/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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31
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Huang B, He W. Molecular characteristics of inherited congenital cataracts. Eur J Med Genet 2010; 53:347-57. [PMID: 20624502 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2010.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2010] [Accepted: 07/04/2010] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Congenital cataracts are a major cause of induced blindness in children, and inherited cataracts are the major cause of congenital cataracts. Inherited congenital cataracts have been associated with mutations in specific genes, including those of crystallins, gap junction proteins, membrane transport and channel proteins, the cytoskeleton, and growth and transcription factors. Locating and identifying the genes and mutations involved in cataractogenesis are essential to gaining an understanding of the molecular defects and pathophysiologic characteristics of inherited congenital cataracts. In this review, we summarize the current research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Huang
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Teaching Hospital, Jilin University, 218 Zhiqiang, Changchun, 130041, China.
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Joo JH, Kim YH, Dunn NW, Sugrue SP. Disruption of mouse corneal epithelial differentiation by conditional inactivation of pnn. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2009; 51:1927-34. [PMID: 19892877 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.09-4591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose. To investigate the specific role of Pinin (Pnn) in the development of anterior eye segment in mice. Methods. Conditional inactivation of Pnn in the developing surface eye ectoderm and lens was achieved by creating mice carrying a Pnn null and a floxed Pnn allele as well as a Pax6-Cre-GFP (Le-Cre) transgene. The resultant Pnn conditional knockout mice were examined by histologic and immunohistologic approaches. Results. Pax6-Cre-mediated deletion of Pnn resulted in severe malformation of lens placode-derived tissues including cornea and lens. Pnn mutant corneal epithelium displayed the loss of corneal epithelial identity and appeared epidermis-like, downregulating corneal keratins (K12) and ectopically expressing epidermal keratins (K10 and K14). This squamous metaplasia of Pnn mutant corneal epithelium closely correlated with significantly elevated beta-catenin activity and Tcf4 level. In addition, Pnn inactivation also led to misregulated level of p68 RNA helicase in mutant corneal epithelium. Conclusions. These data indicate that Pnn plays an essential role in modulating and/or orchestrating the activities of major developmental factors of anterior eye segments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Hoon Joo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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