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Le Beulze M, Daubech C, Balde-Camara A, Ghieh F, Vialard F. Mammal Reproductive Homeobox (Rhox) Genes: An Update of Their Involvement in Reproduction and Development. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1685. [PMID: 37761825 PMCID: PMC10531175 DOI: 10.3390/genes14091685] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive homeobox on the X chromosome (RHOX) genes were first identified in the mouse during the 1990s and have a crucial role in reproduction. In various transcription factors with a key regulatory role, the homeobox sequence encodes a "homeodomain" DNA-binding motif. In the mouse, there are three clusters of Rhox genes (α, β, and γ) on the X chromosome. Each cluster shows temporal and/or quantitative collinearity, which regulates the progression of the embryonic development process. Although the RHOX family is conserved in mammals, the interspecies differences in the number of RHOX genes and pseudogenes testifies to a rich evolutionary history with several relatively recent events. In the mouse, Rhox genes are mainly expressed in reproductive tissues, and several have a role in the differentiation of primordial germ cells (Rhox1, Rhox6, and Rhox10) and in spermatogenesis (Rhox1, Rhox8, and Rhox13). Despite the lack of detailed data on human RHOX, these genes appear to be involved in the formation of germ cells because they are predominantly expressed during the early (RHOXF1) and late (RHOXF2/F2B) stages of germ cell development. Furthermore, the few variants identified to date are thought to induce or predispose to impaired spermatogenesis and severe oligozoospermia or azoospermia. In the future, research on the pathophysiology of the human RHOX genes is likely to confirm the essential role of this family in the reproductive process and might help us to better understand the various causes of infertility and characterize the associated human phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Le Beulze
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Cécile Daubech
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Aissatu Balde-Camara
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Farah Ghieh
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - François Vialard
- Equipe RHuMA, UMR-BREED, UFR Simone Veil Santé, F-78180 Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France; (M.L.B.); (C.D.); (A.B.-C.); (F.G.)
- UFR des Sciences de la Santé Simone Veil, Université de Versailles-Saint Quentin en Yvelines—Université Paris Saclay (UVSQ), INRAE, BREED, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Département de Génétique, CHI de Poissy St. Germain en Laye, F-78300 Poissy, France
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2
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Murthi P, Kalionis B, Cocquebert M, Rajaraman G, Chui A, Keogh RJ, Evain-Brion D, Fournier T. Homeobox genes and down-stream transcription factor PPARγ in normal and pathological human placental development. Placenta 2013; 34:299-309. [PMID: 23484914 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The placenta provides critical transport functions between the maternal and fetal circulations during intrauterine development. Formation of this interface is controlled by nuclear transcription factors including homeobox genes. Here we summarize current knowledge regarding the expression and function of homeobox genes in the placenta. We also describe the identification of target transcription factors including PPARγ, biological pathways regulated by homeobox genes and their role in placental development. The role of the nuclear receptor PPARγ, ligands and target genes in human placental development is also discussed. A better understanding of these pathways will improve our knowledge of placental cell biology and has the potential to reveal new molecular targets for the early detection and diagnosis of pregnancy complications including human fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Murthi
- Department of Perinatal Medicine Pregnancy Research Centre, Australia
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3
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The role of placental homeobox genes in human fetal growth restriction. J Pregnancy 2011; 2011:548171. [PMID: 21547091 PMCID: PMC3087155 DOI: 10.1155/2011/548171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 02/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is an adverse pregnancy outcome associated with significant perinatal and paediatric morbidity and mortality, and an increased risk of chronic disease later in adult life. One of the key causes of adverse pregnancy outcome is fetal growth restriction (FGR). While a number of maternal, fetal, and environmental factors are known causes of FGR, the majority of FGR cases remain idiopathic. These idiopathic FGR pregnancies are frequently associated with placental insufficiency, possibly as a result of placental maldevelopment. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of abnormal placental development in idiopathic FGR is, therefore, of increasing importance. Here, we review our understanding of transcriptional control of normal placental development and abnormal placental development associated with human idiopathic FGR. We also assess the potential for understanding transcriptional control as a means for revealing new molecular targets for the detection, diagnosis, and clinical management of idiopathic FGR.
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4
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Leem S, Ahn E, Heo J. Functional classification of gene expression profiles during differentiation of mouse embryonic cells on monolayer culture. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2009.9647216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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5
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López-García C, López-Contreras AJ, Cremades A, Castells MT, Marín F, Schreiber F, Peñafiel R. Molecular and morphological changes in placenta and embryo development associated with the inhibition of polyamine synthesis during midpregnancy in mice. Endocrinology 2008; 149:5012-23. [PMID: 18583422 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polyamines play an essential role in murine development, as demonstrated by both gene ablation in ornithine decarboxylase (ODC)-deficient embryos and pharmacological treatments of pregnant mice. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which ODC inhibition affects embryonic development during critical periods of pregnancy are mostly unknown. Our present results demonstrate that the contragestational effect of alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a suicide inhibitor of ODC, when given at d 7-9 of pregnancy, is associated with embryo growth arrest and marked alterations in the development of yolk sac and placenta. Blood island formation as well as the transcript levels of embryonary globins alpha-like x chain and beta-like y-chain was markedly decreased in the yolk sac. At the placental level, abnormal chorioallantoic attachment, absence of the spongiotrophoblast layer and a deficient development of the labyrinthine zone were evident. Real-time RT-PCR analysis showed that transcript levels of the steroidogenic genes steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase VI, and 17alpha-hydroxylase were markedly decreased by DFMO treatment in the developing placenta at d 9 and 10 of pregnancy. Plasma values of progesterone and androstenedione were also decreased by DFMO treatment. Transcriptomic analysis also detected changes in the expression of several genes involved in placentation and the differentiation of trophoblastic lineages. In conclusion, our results indicate that ODC inhibition at d 8 of pregnancy is related to alterations in yolk sac formation and trophoblast differentiation, affecting processes such as vasculogenesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos López-García
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology B and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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6
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Geyer CB, Eddy EM. Identification and characterization of Rhox13, a novel X-linked mouse homeobox gene. Gene 2008; 423:194-200. [PMID: 18675325 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2008.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2008] [Revised: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 06/27/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Homeobox genes encode transcription factors whose expression organizes programs of development. A number of homeobox genes expressed in reproductive tissues have been identified recently, including a colinear cluster on the X chromosome in mice. This has led to an increased interest in understanding the role(s) of homeobox genes in regulating development of reproductive tissues including the testis, ovary, and placenta. Here we report the identification and characterization of a novel homeobox gene of the paired-like class on the X chromosome distal to the reproductive homeobox (Rhox) cluster in mice. Transcripts are found in the testis and ovary as early as 13.5 days post coitum (dpc). Transcription ceases in the ovary by 3 days post partum (dpp), but continues in the testis through adulthood. The Rhox13 gene encodes a 25.3 kDa protein expressed in the adult testis in germ cells at the basal aspect of the seminiferous epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher B Geyer
- Gamete Biology Group, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, DHHS Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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7
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Cinelli P, Casanova EA, Uhlig S, Lochmatter P, Matsuda T, Yokota T, Rülicke T, Ledermann B, Bürki K. Expression profiling in transgenic FVB/N embryonic stem cells overexpressing STAT3. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2008; 8:57. [PMID: 18500982 PMCID: PMC2409313 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-8-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2007] [Accepted: 05/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background The transcription factor STAT3 is a downstream target of the LIF signalling cascade. LIF signalling or activation is sufficient to maintain embryonic stem (ES) cells in an undifferentiated and pluripotent state. To further investigate the importance of STAT3 in the establishment of ES cells we have in a first step derived stable pluripotent embryonic stem cells from transgenic FVB mice expressing a conditional tamoxifen dependent STAT3-MER fusion protein. In a second step, STAT3-MER overexpressing cells were used to identify STAT3 pathway-related genes by expression profiling in order to identify new key-players involved in maintenance of pluripotency in ES cells. Results Transgenic STAT3-MER blastocysts yielded pluripotent germline-competent ES cells at a high frequency in the absence of LIF when established in tamoxifen-containing medium. Expression profiling of tamoxifen-induced transgenic FVB ES cell lines revealed a set of 26 genes that were markedly up- or down-regulated when compared with wild type cells. The expression of four of the up-regulated genes (Hexokinase II, Lefty2, Pramel7, PP1rs15B) was shown to be restricted to the inner cell mass (ICM) of the blastocysts. These differentially expressed genes represent potential candidates for the maintenance of pluripotency of ES cells. We finally overexpressed two candidate genes, Pem/Rhox5 and Pramel7, in ES cells and demonstrated that their overexpression is sufficient for the maintenance of expression of ES cell markers as well as of the typical morphology of pluripotent ES cells in absence of LIF. Conclusion Overexpression of STAT3-MER in the inner cell mass of blastocyst facilitates the establishment of ES cells and induces the upregulation of potential candidate genes involved in the maintenance of pluripotency. Two of them, Pem/Rhox5 and Pramel7, when overexpressed in ES cells are able to maintain the embryonic stem cells in a pluripotent state in a LIF independent manner as STAT3 or Nanog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Cinelli
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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8
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An in situ hybridization-based screen for heterogeneously expressed genes in mouse ES cells. Gene Expr Patterns 2007; 8:181-98. [PMID: 18178135 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Revised: 10/23/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that Zscan4 showed heterogeneous expression patterns in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. To identify genes that show similar expression patterns, we carried out high-throughput in situ hybridization assays on ES cell cultures for 244 genes. Most of the genes are involved in transcriptional regulation, and were selected using microarray-based comparisons of gene expression profiles in ES and embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells versus differentiated cell types. Pou5f1 (Oct4, Oct3/4) and Krt8 (EndoA) were used as controls. Hybridization signals were detected on ES cell colonies for 147 genes (60%). The majority (136 genes) of them showed relatively homogeneous expression in ES cell colonies. However, we found that two genes unequivocally showed Zscan4-like spotted expression pattern (spot-in-colony pattern; Whsc2 and Rhox9). We also found that nine genes showed relatively heterogeneous expression pattern (mosaic-in-colony pattern: Zfp42/Rex1, Rest, Atf4, Pa2g4, E2f2, Nanog, Dppa3/Pgc7/Stella, Esrrb, and Fscn1). Among these genes, Zfp42/Rex1 showed unequivocally heterogeneous expression in individual ES cells prepared by the CytoSpin. These results show the presence of different types or states of cells within ES cell cultures otherwise thought to be undifferentiated and homogeneous, suggesting a previously unappreciated complexity in ES cell cultures.
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9
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Wang X, Zhang J. Remarkable expansions of an X-linked reproductive homeobox gene cluster in rodent evolution. Genomics 2006; 88:34-43. [PMID: 16574372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2006.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2005] [Revised: 02/11/2006] [Accepted: 02/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Rhox is a recently identified cluster of 12 X-linked homeobox genes in mice. The expression pattern of Rhox genes during postnatal testis development corresponds to their chromosomal position, much like the colinear gene regulation of the Hox gene clusters during animal embryonic development. We here report the identification of 18 additional Rhox genes and 3 pseudogenes in mice. Comparative analyses of the mouse, rat, human, dog, cow, opossum, and chicken genomes suggest that the Rhox cluster originated in the common ancestor of primates and rodents. It subsequently underwent two remarkable expansions, first in the common ancestor of mice and rats and then in mice. Positive selection promoting amino acid substitutions was detected in some young Rhox genes, suggesting adaptive functional diversification. The recent expansions of the Rhox cluster provide an opportunity to study the mechanism and origin of colinear gene regulation, but they may also undermine the utility of mouse models for understanding the development and physiology of the human reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Wang
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, 1075 Natural Science Building, 830 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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10
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Pangas SA, Rajkovic A. Transcriptional regulation of early oogenesis: in search of masters. Hum Reprod Update 2005; 12:65-76. [PMID: 16143663 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmi033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factors in the germline play important roles in ovary formation and folliculogenesis, and control both oocyte development and somatic cell function. Factor in the germline (Figla) and newborn ovary homeobox gene (Nobox) represent a growing number of oocyte-specific transcription factors that regulate genes unique to oocytes. Studies on oocyte-specific transcription factors are important in understanding the genetic pathways essential for oogenesis, pluripotency, and embryonic development. Likely, these genes regulate reproductive life span and represent candidate genes for reproductive disorders, such as premature ovarian failure, and infertility. Therefore, oocyte-specific transcription factors, and oocyte-specific genes regulated by such factors, are attractive tissue-specific pharmacological targets to regulate human fertility.
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11
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Guan H, Dy J, Richardson B, Yang K. Identification of two novel allelic variants of ESX1L in the human placenta: lack of an association with intrauterine growth restriction. Placenta 2004; 26:766-72. [PMID: 16226127 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2004.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2004] [Revised: 08/06/2004] [Accepted: 10/05/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although epidemiological studies implicate an important role for genetic factors in determining birth weight, few candidate genes for IUGR have been identified. ESX1L, the orthologue of Esx1, is an X chromosome-linked human homeobox gene expressed in the placenta and testis. The present study was undertaken to determine if aberrations in the ESX1L gene were associated with idiopathic IUGR because targeted deletion of Esx1 in the mouse leads to abnormal placental development and consequent IUGR. Genotyping analysis of ESX1L gene was performed on placental samples from 22 normal term and 12 IUGR term fetuses. Two allelic variants were identified, and they contain an insertion and a deletion, respectively, of the same 27 nucleotides in the highly repetitive region of exon-4 that encodes the previously identified 12 contiguous repeats of a unique 9-amino acid motif, PPMAP(V/L)PPG. Thus, the insertion and deletion variants were predicted to code for an aberrant ESX1L protein containing 13 and 11 contiguous repeats, respectively. However, both variants were detectable and evenly distributed in normal as well as IUGR placentae, indicating that these two variants of ESX1L do not contribute to genetic susceptibility to idiopathic IUGR. Furthermore, no single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified, and there was no difference in the level of ESX1L mRNA between control and IUGR placentae. Taken together, these findings provide the first evidence that two allelic variants of ESX1L exist in the human placenta but they are not associated with idiopathic IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Guan
- CIHR Group in Fetal and Neonatal Health and Development, Child Health Research Institute & Lawson Health Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Rd. E., London, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Mitsunaga K, Araki K, Mizusaki H, Morohashi KI, Haruna K, Nakagata N, Giguère V, Yamamura KI, Abe K. Loss of PGC-specific expression of the orphan nuclear receptor ERR-β results in reduction of germ cell number in mouse embryos. Mech Dev 2004; 121:237-46. [PMID: 15003627 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2004.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2003] [Revised: 01/19/2004] [Accepted: 01/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen related receptor beta (ERR-beta) is an orphan nuclear receptor specifically expressed in a subset of extra-embryonic ectoderm of post-implantation embryos. ERR-beta is essential for placental development since the ERR-beta null mutants die at 10.5dpc due to the placenta abnormality. Here, we show that the ERR-beta is specifically expressed in primordial germ cells (PGC), obviously another important cell type for reproduction. Expression of the ERR-beta mRNA in embryonic germ cells started at E11.5 as soon as PGC reached genital ridges, and persisted until E15-E16 in both sexes. Immunostaining with anti-ERR-beta antibody revealed that the ERR-beta protein is exclusively expressed in germ cells in both male and female gonads from E11.5 to E16. 5. To study function of the ERR-beta in PGC, we complemented placental defects of the ERR-beta null mutants with wild-type tetraploid embryos, and analyzed germ cell development in the rescued embryos. It was found that development of gonad and PGC was not apparently affected, but number of germ cells was significantly reduced in male and female gonads, suggesting that the ERR-beta appears to be involved in proliferation of gonadal germ cells. The rescued embryos could develop to term and grow up to adulthood. The rescued ERR-beta null male were found to be fertile, but both male and female null mutants exhibited behavioural abnormalities, implying that the ERR-beta plays important roles in wider biological processes than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Mitsunaga
- Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Division of Developmental Genetics, Kumamoto University, 4-24-1 Kuhonji, Kumamoto 862-0976, Japan
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13
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Waterston RH, Lindblad-Toh K, Birney E, Rogers J, Abril JF, Agarwal P, Agarwala R, Ainscough R, Alexandersson M, An P, Antonarakis SE, Attwood J, Baertsch R, Bailey J, Barlow K, Beck S, Berry E, Birren B, Bloom T, Bork P, Botcherby M, Bray N, Brent MR, Brown DG, Brown SD, Bult C, Burton J, Butler J, Campbell RD, Carninci P, Cawley S, Chiaromonte F, Chinwalla AT, Church DM, Clamp M, Clee C, Collins FS, Cook LL, Copley RR, Coulson A, Couronne O, Cuff J, Curwen V, Cutts T, Daly M, David R, Davies J, Delehaunty KD, Deri J, Dermitzakis ET, Dewey C, Dickens NJ, Diekhans M, Dodge S, Dubchak I, Dunn DM, Eddy SR, Elnitski L, Emes RD, Eswara P, Eyras E, Felsenfeld A, Fewell GA, Flicek P, Foley K, Frankel WN, Fulton LA, Fulton RS, Furey TS, Gage D, Gibbs RA, Glusman G, Gnerre S, Goldman N, Goodstadt L, Grafham D, Graves TA, Green ED, Gregory S, Guigó R, Guyer M, Hardison RC, Haussler D, Hayashizaki Y, Hillier LW, Hinrichs A, Hlavina W, Holzer T, Hsu F, Hua A, Hubbard T, Hunt A, Jackson I, Jaffe DB, Johnson LS, Jones M, Jones TA, Joy A, Kamal M, Karlsson EK, Karolchik D, Kasprzyk A, Kawai J, Keibler E, Kells C, Kent WJ, Kirby A, Kolbe DL, Korf I, Kucherlapati RS, Kulbokas EJ, Kulp D, Landers T, Leger JP, Leonard S, Letunic I, Levine R, Li J, Li M, Lloyd C, Lucas S, Ma B, Maglott DR, Mardis ER, Matthews L, Mauceli E, Mayer JH, McCarthy M, McCombie WR, McLaren S, McLay K, McPherson JD, Meldrim J, Meredith B, Mesirov JP, Miller W, Miner TL, Mongin E, Montgomery KT, Morgan M, Mott R, Mullikin JC, Muzny DM, Nash WE, Nelson JO, Nhan MN, Nicol R, Ning Z, Nusbaum C, O'Connor MJ, Okazaki Y, Oliver K, Overton-Larty E, Pachter L, Parra G, Pepin KH, Peterson J, Pevzner P, Plumb R, Pohl CS, Poliakov A, Ponce TC, Ponting CP, Potter S, Quail M, Reymond A, Roe BA, Roskin KM, Rubin EM, Rust AG, Santos R, Sapojnikov V, Schultz B, Schultz J, Schwartz MS, Schwartz S, Scott C, Seaman S, Searle S, Sharpe T, Sheridan A, Shownkeen R, Sims S, Singer JB, Slater G, Smit A, Smith DR, Spencer B, Stabenau A, Stange-Thomann N, Sugnet C, Suyama M, Tesler G, Thompson J, Torrents D, Trevaskis E, Tromp J, Ucla C, Ureta-Vidal A, Vinson JP, Von Niederhausern AC, Wade CM, Wall M, Weber RJ, Weiss RB, Wendl MC, West AP, Wetterstrand K, Wheeler R, Whelan S, Wierzbowski J, Willey D, Williams S, Wilson RK, Winter E, Worley KC, Wyman D, Yang S, Yang SP, Zdobnov EM, Zody MC, Lander ES. Initial sequencing and comparative analysis of the mouse genome. Nature 2002; 420:520-62. [PMID: 12466850 DOI: 10.1038/nature01262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4802] [Impact Index Per Article: 218.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2002] [Accepted: 10/31/2002] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The sequence of the mouse genome is a key informational tool for understanding the contents of the human genome and a key experimental tool for biomedical research. Here, we report the results of an international collaboration to produce a high-quality draft sequence of the mouse genome. We also present an initial comparative analysis of the mouse and human genomes, describing some of the insights that can be gleaned from the two sequences. We discuss topics including the analysis of the evolutionary forces shaping the size, structure and sequence of the genomes; the conservation of large-scale synteny across most of the genomes; the much lower extent of sequence orthology covering less than half of the genomes; the proportions of the genomes under selection; the number of protein-coding genes; the expansion of gene families related to reproduction and immunity; the evolution of proteins; and the identification of intraspecies polymorphism.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Composition
- Chromosomes, Mammalian/genetics
- Conserved Sequence/genetics
- CpG Islands/genetics
- Evolution, Molecular
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Genes/genetics
- Genetic Variation/genetics
- Genome
- Genome, Human
- Genomics
- Humans
- Mice/classification
- Mice/genetics
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, Transgenic
- Models, Animal
- Multigene Family/genetics
- Mutagenesis
- Neoplasms/genetics
- Physical Chromosome Mapping
- Proteome/genetics
- Pseudogenes/genetics
- Quantitative Trait Loci/genetics
- RNA, Untranslated/genetics
- Repetitive Sequences, Nucleic Acid/genetics
- Selection, Genetic
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sex Chromosomes/genetics
- Species Specificity
- Synteny
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14
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Wayne CM, MacLean JA, Cornwall G, Wilkinson MF. Two novel human X-linked homeobox genes, hPEPP1 and hPEPP2, selectively expressed in the testis. Gene 2002; 301:1-11. [PMID: 12490318 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(02)01087-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The PEPP genes are a recently described subfamily of mouse homeobox genes preferentially expressed in reproductive tissues. Pem, the founding member of the PEPP subfamily, has undergone rapid divergence due to positive selection, rendering the identification of its human orthologue difficult. Here we report the isolation and characterization of two human homeobox genes, hPEPP1 and hPEPP2, that are related to Pem and other PEPP family members. We identified these human genes based on their location in Xq24, which is syntenic to the mouse X-chromosome region containing three PEPP genes: Pem, Psx-1, and Psx-2. We found that hPEPP1 and hPEPP2 are selectively expressed in the testis, where the mouse and rat Pem genes are also expressed. However, unlike all mouse PEPP genes, hPEPP1 and hPEPP2 were not expressed in placenta, which suggests the possibility that the regulation of PEPP genes has significantly changed since the split between hominids and rodents. Although hPEPP1 exhibits highly selective expression in normal tissues, it is aberrantly expressed in tumor cell lines from several different organs, analogous to the expression pattern of mouse and rat Pem but not mouse Psx-1 or Psx-2. We conclude that we identified two human homeobox genes from the PEPP subfamily that are good candidates to encode transcription factors that regulate downstream genes and biological events in the human testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad M Wayne
- Department of Immunology, Box 180, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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15
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Geserick C, Weiss B, Schleuning WD, Haendler B. OTEX, an androgen-regulated human member of the paired-like class of homeobox genes. Biochem J 2002; 366:367-75. [PMID: 11980563 PMCID: PMC1222745 DOI: 10.1042/bj20020399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2002] [Revised: 04/25/2002] [Accepted: 04/30/2002] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
paired genes emerged early in evolution and code for homeobox transcription factors, having fundamental roles in various biological processes. We identified a novel human member of the paired-like class, which we named OTEX. A phylogenetic analysis revealed that OTEX belonged to the recently defined PEPP subfamily of paired-like homeobox genes. It was organized into three introns and, like the other PEPP genes, it was mapped to chromosome X. Its transcripts were detected mainly in the ovary, testis and epididymis, but also in the prostate and mammary gland. In the PC-3/ARwt prostate cell line, OTEX expression was stimulated dramatically following androgen treatment. Immunofluorescence studies revealed an exclusively nuclear localization of the OTEX protein. Mutation of the RARCRRHQRE amino acid sequence present at the C-terminus of the OTEX homeodomain resulted in a mainly cytoplasmic localization, indicating that this motif harboured the nuclear localization signal. No inherent transactivation function was seen for OTEX using the one-hybrid assay, and no homodimer formation was observed in the two-hybrid assay, suggesting that additional partners were needed for this activity. Taken together, the data show that OTEX represents a novel, androgen-regulated, paired-like homeobox protein, with possibly an important role in human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Geserick
- Research Laboratories of Schering AG, Muellerstrasse 170-178, Berlin 13342, Germany
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16
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Takasaki N, Rankin T, Dean J. Normal gonadal development in mice lacking GPBOX, a homeobox protein expressed in germ cells at the onset of sexual dimorphism. Mol Cell Biol 2001; 21:8197-202. [PMID: 11689708 PMCID: PMC99984 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.21.23.8197-8202.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gpbox is a paired-like homeobox gene that colocalizes with two other members of the family, PsxI and Pem, on the proximal portion of the mouse X chromosome. Gpbox is expressed in the extraembryonic placenta and within the germ cells of the embryonic gonad. Beginning with the onset of sexual dimorphism (embryonic day [E]11.5 to 12.5), GPBOX transcripts accumulate faster in female than in male germ cells but disappear later in embryogenesis (E16) and have not been reported in adult tissues. To investigate the function of Gpbox, mouse cell lines lacking GPBOX were established using targeted mutagenesis in embryonic stem cells. Both homozygous Gpbox null female and hemizygous Gpbox null male mice were fertile and reproduced normally. Additionally, the development of male and female gonads in the null background was indistinguishable from that observed in normal littermates. The lack of an obvious phenotype raises the possibility that another member of this homeobox gene family provides the absent Gpbox function.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Takasaki
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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17
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Fohn LE, Behringer RR. ESX1L, a novel X chromosome-linked human homeobox gene expressed in the placenta and testis. Genomics 2001; 74:105-8. [PMID: 11374906 DOI: 10.1006/geno.2001.6532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A novel human homeobox gene related to the mouse Esx1 homeobox gene, which we have designated ESXR1, has been identified. ESXR1 and Esx1 share 65% identity within their homeodomains and have glutamic acid-rich and proline-rich N- and C-terminal regions, respectively. Unlike Esx1, ESXR1 contains 12 repeats of a unique nine amino acid motif, PPMAP(V/L)PPG, located C-terminal to the homeodomain. The general exon-intron structures of ESXR1 and Esx1 appear to be conserved. ESXR1 has been localized to human Xq22.1-q22.3, the same region of synteny shared by the map position of Esx1. ESXR1 expression appears to be restricted to the placenta and testis, the tissues in which Esx1 is also expressed. These data suggest that ESXR1 may be the orthologue of Esx1. The findings that there are similarities between ESXR1 and Esx1, yet differences between their encoded products, are consistent with the idea that placental genes evolve rapidly between mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Fohn
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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18
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Kim YJ, Lee MC, Kim SJ, Chun JY. Identification and characterization of multiple isoforms of a mouse ribosome receptor. Gene 2000; 261:337-44. [PMID: 11167022 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(00)00496-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We isolated multiple cDNA clones encoding various isoforms of a mouse ribosome receptor protein (mRRp). The cDNAs were isolated from a 13.5-day-old mouse conceptus cDNA library by polymerase chain reaction-based screening. The predicted proteins encoded by these cDNAs showed significant homology with ribosome receptors present in dogs (83%), humans (80%), and chickens (45%). The cDNA isoforms had highly identical N- and C-terminal sequences but differed in their central sequences, suggesting that these cDNA isoforms may be derived by alternative splicing from a single gene. Genomic Southern blot analysis confirmed the existence of only a single mouse ribosome receptor gene. Alignments of the deduced amino acid sequences of the mRRp cDNA isoforms revealed that they differ in the number of decapeptide repeats present in the central domain of the protein. These repeats have been previously suggested to mediate ribosome binding and thus differences in repeat number may translate to different ribosome binding abilities. The longest mRRp isoform had 61 tandem repeats. This is of interest because in the human and canine ribosome receptor proteins there are only 54 tandem repeats, suggesting that humans and dogs may also have larger ribosome receptor protein isoforms. Surprisingly, mRRp has a very short basic C-terminal sequence of only 35 amino acids, while in contrast, the known human and canine forms of this protein have acidic C-terminal regions comprised of 803 and 798 amino acid residues, respectively. Although the function of the C-terminal region is currently unknown, it may be that those C-terminal sequences that are present in human and canine RRp proteins but missing in mRRp do not play critical roles in RRp function. The cDNA of the ES/130 isoform, which lacks tandem repeats and presumably are unable to bind ribosomes, could be isolated by reverse transcriptase-PCR from E 13.5 mouse embryos. mRRp mRNAs were expressed in all tissues examined but expression levels of each isoform differed between tissues. The identification of multiple mRRp isoforms in the mouse will allow us to study the regulation and function of ribosome receptors on a genetic level.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Blotting, Northern
- Cell Line
- DNA, Complementary/chemistry
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- DNA, Complementary/isolation & purification
- Female
- Fetus
- Gene Expression
- Male
- Mice
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Protein Isoforms/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/genetics
- Repetitive Sequences, Amino Acid
- Sequence Alignment
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Sequence Homology, Amino Acid
- Sequence Homology, Nucleic Acid
- Tandem Repeat Sequences
- Tissue Distribution
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Affiliation(s)
- Y J Kim
- Department of Biological Science, Ewha Woman's University, 11-1 Daehyun-Dong, Seodaemoon-Gu, 120-750, Seoul, South Korea
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19
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Hwang IT, Lee YH, Moon BC, Ahn KY, Lee SW, Chun JY. Identification and characterization of a new member of the placental prolactin-like protein-C (PLP-C) subfamily, PLP-Cbeta. Endocrinology 2000; 141:3343-52. [PMID: 10965907 DOI: 10.1210/endo.141.9.7635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We have isolated a complementary DNA (cDNA) clone that encodes a new member of the PRL-like protein-C (PLP-C) subfamily of the PRL gene family. The clone was amplified from a 13.5-day-old mouse conceptus cDNA library by PCR using primers based on conserved regions of PLP-C sequences. The full-length cDNA encodes a predicted protein of 241 residues, which contains a putative signal sequence and 2 putative N-linked glycosylation sites. The predicted protein shares 55-66% amino acid identity with mouse PLP-Calpha and rat PLP-D, PLP-H, PLP-Cv, and PLP-C and also contains 6 homologously positioned cysteine residues. Thus, we named this protein PLP-Cbeta for consistency. We have also isolated rat PLP-Cbeta from rat placenta cDNA library. Surprisingly, two messenger RNA (mRNA) isoforms of rat PLP-Cbeta were isolated: one mRNA (rPLP-Cbeta) encodes a 241-amino acid product, but another mRNA (rPLP-Cbetadelta39) lacks 39 bases that encode for a region rich in aromatic amino acids. The 39-bp region corresponds to exon 3 of other PLP-C subfamily members, such as PLP-Calpha, PLP-Cv, and d/tPRP. It suggests that the two isoforms are probably generated by an alternative splicing from a single gene. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the rPLP-Cbeta form was dominantly expressed in placenta, although both isoforms are coexpressed during placentation. The mouse PLP-Cbeta mRNA expression, which was specific to the placenta, was first detected by Northern analysis on embryonic day 11.5 (E 11.5) and persisted until birth. However, in situ hybridization analysis revealed mPLP-Cbeta expression on E 10.5 in specific trophoblast subsets, such as giant cells and spongiotrophoblast cells. mPLP-Cbeta mRNA was detected in the labyrinthine zone on E 18.5, suggesting that spongiotrophoblast cells had penetrated the labyrinthotrophoblast zone. Consistent with the observed expression in trophoblast giant cells, PLP-Cbeta expression was also detected in in vitro differentiated Rcho-1 cells, which express the trophoblast giant cell phenotype. In summary, overall high amino acid identity (79%), the locations of cysteine residues, and consensus sites for N-linked glycosylation between mouse and rat PLP-Cbeta clearly indicate that PLP-Cbeta is a bona fide member of the PLP-C subfamily. The conservation between mouse and rat, the presence of alternative isoforms, and the pattern of expression during gestation suggest the biological significance of PLP-Cbeta during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I T Hwang
- Kumho Life and Environmental Science Laboratory, Kwangju, Korea
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20
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Murasawa H, Takashima R, Yamanouchi K, Tojo H, Tachi C. Comparative analysis of HOXC-9 gene expression in murine hemochorial and caprine synepitheliochorial placentae by in situ hybridization. THE ANATOMICAL RECORD 2000; 259:383-94. [PMID: 10903530 DOI: 10.1002/1097-0185(20000801)259:4<383::aid-ar20>3.0.co;2-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian placentae exhibit wide structural diversity among different species and are formed under intricate interplay between the embryonic trophoblast and the maternal endometrial cells. Increasing evidence in the literature indicates a possible role played by homeobox genes in the complex placental organogenesis. Although the expression of all HOX 9 paralogs has been demonstrated both in highly invasive murine hemochorial placentae and in non-invasive caprine synepitheliochorial placentae, no reports so far published in the literature described the patterns of gene expression of Hoxc-9 in the murine nor those of HOXC-9 in the caprine placenta at cellular levels. We carried out comparative analyses of the location and identity of the cells expressing Hoxc-9/HOXC-9 during various stages of placentation in the murine hemochorial and caprine synepitheliochorial placentae by means of in situ hybridization using murine Hoxc-9 or caprine HOXC-9 cRNA probe, respectively. The results demonstrated that Hoxc-9 mRNA was expressed at high levels in giant trophoblast cells of murine placentae on Days 12-19, but not on Day 8. Similar analysis of caprine Day 75 and Day 100 placentae revealed that the binucleate trophoblast cells that penetrate the uterine luminal epithelial cell layer, strongly expressed HOXC-9 mRNA. Although the functional significance of Hoxc-9/HOXC-9 gene expression in trophoblast cells remains to be elucidated, it was suggested that it might play a role in the regulation of invasiveness or endocrine activities in the murine giant trophoblast cells and/or the caprine binucleate trophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Murasawa
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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21
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Takasaki N, McIsaac R, Dean J. Gpbox (Psx2), a homeobox gene preferentially expressed in female germ cells at the onset of sexual dimorphism in mice. Dev Biol 2000; 223:181-93. [PMID: 10864470 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.2000.9741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
XX gonads differentiate into ovaries, a morphologic event evident by embryonic day 13.5 (E13.5) in mice. To identify early markers of oogenesis, sex-specific urogenital ridge cDNA libraries were constructed from E12-13 embryos. After mass excision and isolation of plasmid DNA, approximately 4800 expressed sequence tags were determined and compared to existing databases. Few cDNAs were specifically expressed in the urogenital ridge, but one, designated GPBOX, encodes a 227-amino-acid homeobox protein that is first expressed at E10.5 in the embryo as well as in the extraembryonic tissues. The Gpbox gene is single copy in the mouse genome and is located on the X chromosome in close proximity to two other homeobox genes, Pem and Psx1. Within the embryo, its expression is limited to the gonad, and transcripts are not detected in adult tissues. Although comparable levels are initially present in both sexes, GPBOX transcripts accumulate faster in female germ cells and peak at E12.5 when they are present in fivefold greater abundance than in males. The persistence of GPBOX transcripts in female germ cells until E15.5 and their virtual disappearance in males by E13.5 suggest that Gpbox may play a role in mammalian oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Takasaki
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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22
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Han YJ, Lee YH, Chun JY. Identification and characterization of Psx-2, a novel member of the Psx (placenta-specific homeobox) family. Gene 2000; 241:149-55. [PMID: 10607909 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1119(99)00453-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Psx (now designated as Psx-1) is a murine placenta-specific homeobox gene. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of a second mouse Psx gene (Psx-2). Although 29bp were absent towards the 3' end of Psx-2, Psx-2 and Psx-1 cDNA had identical 5' and 3' ends. Overall sequence identity between the two cDNAs was 91% at the nucleotide level and 81% at the amino acid level. Both Psx proteins contain 227 amino acids. These results suggest that they arose through a recent gene duplication. A surprising finding is that the 81% sequence identity between Psx-1 and Psx-2 proteins drops at the level of homeodomain to 78%. Further, the amino acid at position 51, which is invariably an asparagine in other homeodomains and is known to contact DNA directly, is a methionine in the homeodomains of both Psx-1 and Psx-2. This suggests that Psx proteins may interact with DNA sequences differently to those bound by other homeodomains. Southern blot analysis indicated that the two Psx genes occur on separate loci in the mouse genome. The Psx-2 gene spans approx. 2. 6kb of mouse genome, and contains four exons and three introns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y J Han
- Kumho Life and Environmental Science Laboratory, 572 Sangam-Dong, Kwangsan-Gu, Kwangju, South Korea
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23
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Abstract
We previously isolated a cDNA clone for a homeobox-containing gene with its expression restricted to the extraembryonic tissues. In this study, Psx gene expression was further examined using in situ hybridization to determine the cellular distribution of Psx transcripts during embryo development. Psx expression was first detected at embryonic day 8.5 only in trophoblast giant cells and chorionic ectoderm. At E 9.5 and E 13.5, the expression was restricted to the giant cells and the labyrinthine trophoblast layer. In addition, the gene expression was detected in differentiated Rcho-1 trophoblast cells in vitro, which is typical of trophoblast giant cells in vivo, but not in proliferating Rcho-1 cells and HRP-1 cells. Interestingly, rat Psx homologue mRNA is about 200 bp shorter than mouse Psx, suggesting that there is a high degree of sequence divergence between the mouse and rat Psx homologues. The sequence divergence, perhaps as a result of rapid evolution, is further supported by the zoo blot analysis because the Psx gene was detectable only in mouse and rat but not in other vertebrate species tested. Psx is localized to the murine X chromosome. Taken together, our results suggest that Psx gene plays a unique role in the function of differentiated trophoblast cells and also serves as a useful model for studying trophoblast cell lineages and the rapid evolution of homeobox genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Y Chun
- Kumho Life and Environmental Science Laboratory, Kwangju, Korea.
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24
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Fan Y, Melhem MF, Chaillet JR. Forced expression of the homeobox-containing gene Pem blocks differentiation of embryonic stem cells. Dev Biol 1999; 210:481-96. [PMID: 10357905 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.1999.9279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Similarities in the differentiation of mouse embryos and ES cell embryoid bodies suggest that aspects of early mammalian embryogenesis can be studied in ES cell embryoid bodies. In an effort to understand the regulation of cellular differentiation during early mouse embryogenesis, we altered the expression of the Pem homeobox-containing gene in ES cells. Pem is normally expressed in the preimplantation embryo and expressed in a lineage-restricted fashion following implantation, suggesting a role for Pem in regulating cellular differentiation in the early embryo. Here, we show that the forced expression of Pem from the mouse Pgk-1 promoter in ES cells blocks the in vitro and in vivo differentiation of the cells. In particular, embryoid bodies produced from these Pgk-Pem ES cells do not differentiate into primitive endoderm or embryonic ectoderm, which are prominent features of early embryoid bodies from normal ES cells. This Pgk-Pem phenotype is also different from the null phenotype, as embryoid bodies derived from ES cells in which endogenous Pem gene expression has been blocked show a pattern of differentiation similar to that of normal ES cells. When the Pgk-Pem ES cells were introduced into subcutaneous sites of nude mice, only undifferentiated EC-like cells were found in the teratomas derived from the injected cells. The Pem-dependent block of ES cell differentiation appears to be cell autonomous; Pgk-Pem ES cells did not differentiate when mixed with normal, differentiating ES cells. A block to ES cell differentiation, resulting from the forced expression of Pem, can also be produced by the forced expression of the nonhomeodomain region of Pem. These studies are consistent with a role for Pem in regulating the transition between undifferentiated and differentiated cells of the early mouse embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Fan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15260, USA
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25
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Takashima R, Murasawa H, Yamanouchi K, Tojo H, Tachi C. Survey of Homeobox Genes Expressed in Hemochorial Placentae of Mice (Mus musculus) and in Epitheliochorial/Syndesmochorial Placentae of Shiba Goats (Capra hircus var. Shiba). J Reprod Dev 1999. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.45.363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ryoukichi Takashima
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- Biomedical Group, Takara Shuzo Co., Ltd., Otsu, Shiga -ken 520-21, Japan
| | - Hideki Murasawa
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Keitaro Yamanouchi
- Biomedical Group, Takara Shuzo Co., Ltd., Otsu, Shiga -ken 520-21, Japan
| | - Hideaki Tojo
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Chikashi Tachi
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8657, and Laboratory of Developmental and Reproductive Biotechnology, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, Azabu University, Fuchinobe, Sagamihara-shi 229-8501, Japan
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26
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Pitman JL, Lin TP, Kleeman JE, Erickson GF, MacLeod CL. Normal reproductive and macrophage function in Pem homeobox gene-deficient mice. Dev Biol 1998; 202:196-214. [PMID: 9769172 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.1998.8978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Interaction between germ cells and the supporting somatic cells guides many of the differentiative processes of gametogenesis. The expression pattern of the Pem homeobox gene suggests that it may mediate specific inductive events in murine reproductive tissues. During gestation, Pem is expressed in migrating and early postmigratory primordial germ cells, as well as in all embryo-derived extraembryonic membranes. Pem expression ceases in the germline after Embryonic Day 14 in both sexes and then reappears postnatally in the supporting cells of the gonad. In mature mice, Pem is produced by testicular Sertoli cells during stages VI-VIII of spermatogenesis and transiently by ovarian granulosa cells lining periovulatory follicles. Despite this tightly regulated reproductive expression pattern, mice with a targeted mutation in Pem have normal fecundity, with no detectable alteration in extraembryonic testicular or ovarian development or function. We also show that Pem is expressed throughout embryonic and adult development in a subset of a tissue-specific class of macrophages, Kupffer cells, as well as in a localized fraction of cells in macrophage cell lines. Although the number of Pem-positive Kupffer cells increases in mice treated with lipopolysaccharide, loss of Pem does not detectably interfere with the cells' ability to induce iNOS expression, demonstrating this Kupffer cell function does not require Pem. No differences were observed between Pem-knockout mice in 129, C57BL6/J, or mixed genetic backgrounds. Together, these data show that Pem is dispensable for embryonic and postnatal development, gonadal function, and Kupffer cell activation, perhaps due to compensatory expression of a similar homeobox gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Pitman
- Cancer Center, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California at San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093-0684, USA
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