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Loughlin J. Three decades of osteoarthritis molecular genetics research: From early discussions to impressive breakthroughs. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2024; 32:352-354. [PMID: 37972686 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J Loughlin
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
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2
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Ramos YFM, Rice SJ, Ali SA, Pastrello C, Jurisica I, Rai MF, Collins KH, Lang A, Maerz T, Geurts J, Ruiz-Romero C, June RK, Thomas Appleton C, Rockel JS, Kapoor M. Evolution and advancements in genomics and epigenomics in OA research: How far we have come. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2024:S1063-4584(24)00054-2. [PMID: 38428513 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2024.02.656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent musculoskeletal disease affecting articulating joint tissues, resulting in local and systemic changes that contribute to increased pain and reduced function. Diverse technological advancements have culminated in the advent of high throughput "omic" technologies, enabling identification of comprehensive changes in molecular mediators associated with the disease. Amongst these technologies, genomics and epigenomics - including methylomics and miRNomics, have emerged as important tools to aid our biological understanding of disease. DESIGN In this narrative review, we selected articles discussing advancements and applications of these technologies to OA biology and pathology. We discuss how genomics, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylomics, and miRNomics have uncovered disease-related molecular markers in the local and systemic tissues or fluids of OA patients. RESULTS Genomics investigations into the genetic links of OA, including using genome-wide association studies, have evolved to identify 100+ genetic susceptibility markers of OA. Epigenomic investigations of gene methylation status have identified the importance of methylation to OA-related catabolic gene expression. Furthermore, miRNomic studies have identified key microRNA signatures in various tissues and fluids related to OA disease. CONCLUSIONS Sharing of standardized, well-annotated omic datasets in curated repositories will be key to enhancing statistical power to detect smaller and targetable changes in the biological signatures underlying OA pathogenesis. Additionally, continued technological developments and analysis methods, including using computational molecular and regulatory networks, are likely to facilitate improved detection of disease-relevant targets, in-turn, supporting precision medicine approaches and new treatment strategies for OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolande F M Ramos
- Dept. Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah J Rice
- Biosciences Institute, International Centre for Life, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Shabana Amanda Ali
- Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Chiara Pastrello
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, UHN, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Igor Jurisica
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, UHN, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Departments of Medical Biophysics and Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Muhammad Farooq Rai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kelsey H Collins
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Annemarie Lang
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tristan Maerz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jeroen Geurts
- Rheumatology, Department of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Ruiz-Romero
- Grupo de Investigación de Reumatología (GIR), Unidad de Proteómica, INIBIC -Hospital Universitario A Coruña, SERGAS, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Ronald K June
- Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA
| | - C Thomas Appleton
- Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason S Rockel
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, UHN, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohit Kapoor
- Osteoarthritis Research Program, Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Schroeder Arthritis Institute, UHN, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Murakami T, Ruengsinpinya L, Takahata Y, Nakaminami Y, Hata K, Nishimura R. HOXA10 promotes Gdf5 expression in articular chondrocytes. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22778. [PMID: 38123662 PMCID: PMC10733362 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50318-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5), a BMP family member, is highly expressed in the surface layer of articular cartilage. The GDF5 gene is a key risk locus for osteoarthritis and Gdf5-deficient mice show abnormal joint development, indicating that GDF5 is essential in joint development and homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to identify transcription factors involved in Gdf5 expression by performing two-step screening. We first performed microarray analyses to find transcription factors specifically and highly expressed in the superficial zone (SFZ) cells of articular cartilage, and isolated 11 transcription factors highly expressed in SFZ cells but not in costal chondrocytes. To further proceed with the identification, we generated Gdf5-HiBiT knock-in (Gdf5-HiBiT KI) mice, by which we can easily and reproducibly monitor Gdf5 expression, using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Among the 11 transcription factors, Hoxa10 clearly upregulated HiBiT activity in the SFZ cells isolated from Gdf5-HiBiT KI mice. Hoxa10 overexpression increased Gdf5 expression while Hoxa10 knockdown decreased it in the SFZ cells. Moreover, ChIP and promoter assays proved the direct regulation of Gdf5 expression by HOXA10. Thus, our results indicate the important role played by HOXA10 in Gdf5 regulation and the usefulness of Gdf5-HiBiT KI mice for monitoring Gdf5 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiko Murakami
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, 1-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Lerdluck Ruengsinpinya
- Department of Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand
| | - Yoshifumi Takahata
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, 1-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yuri Nakaminami
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, 1-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kenji Hata
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, 1-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Riko Nishimura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, 1-8 Yamada-Oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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Pollen AA, Kilik U, Lowe CB, Camp JG. Human-specific genetics: new tools to explore the molecular and cellular basis of human evolution. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:687-711. [PMID: 36737647 PMCID: PMC9897628 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-022-00568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Our ancestors acquired morphological, cognitive and metabolic modifications that enabled humans to colonize diverse habitats, develop extraordinary technologies and reshape the biosphere. Understanding the genetic, developmental and molecular bases for these changes will provide insights into how we became human. Connecting human-specific genetic changes to species differences has been challenging owing to an abundance of low-effect size genetic changes, limited descriptions of phenotypic differences across development at the level of cell types and lack of experimental models. Emerging approaches for single-cell sequencing, genetic manipulation and stem cell culture now support descriptive and functional studies in defined cell types with a human or ape genetic background. In this Review, we describe how the sequencing of genomes from modern and archaic hominins, great apes and other primates is revealing human-specific genetic changes and how new molecular and cellular approaches - including cell atlases and organoids - are enabling exploration of the candidate causal factors that underlie human-specific traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex A Pollen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Umut Kilik
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Craig B Lowe
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - J Gray Camp
- Institute of Human Biology (IHB), Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Yeboah RL, Pira CU, Shankel M, Cooper AM, Haro E, Ly VD, Wysong K, Zhang M, Sandoval N, Oberg KC. Sox, Fox, and Lmx1b binding sites differentially regulate a Gdf5-Associated regulatory region during elbow development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1215406. [PMID: 37492222 PMCID: PMC10364121 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1215406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The articulating ends of limb bones have precise morphology and asymmetry that ensures proper joint function. Growth differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5) is a secreted morphogen involved in cartilage and bone development that contributes to the architecture of developing joints. Dysregulation of Gdf5 results in joint dysmorphogenesis often leading to progressive joint degeneration or osteoarthritis (OA). The transcription factors and cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) that regulate Gdf5 expression are not well characterized. We previously identified a Gdf5-associated regulatory region (GARR) that contains predicted binding sites for Lmx1b, Osr2, Fox, and the Sox transcription factors. These transcription factors are recognized factors involved in joint morphogenesis and skeletal development. Methods: We used in situ hybridization to Gdf5, Col2A1, and the transcription factors of interest in developing chicken limbs to determine potential overlap in expression. We further analyzed scRNA-seq data derived from limbs and knees in published mouse and chicken datasets, identifying cells with coexpression of Gdf5 and the transcription factors of interest. We also performed site-directed mutatgenesis of the predicted transcription factor binding sites in a GARR-reporter construct and determined any change in activity using targeted regional electroporation (TREP) in micromass and embryonic chicken wing bioassays. Results: Gdf5 expression overlapped the expression of these transcription factors during joint development both by in situ hybridization (ISH) and scRNA-seq analyses. Within the GARR CRM, mutation of two binding sites common to Fox and Sox transcripstion factors reduced enhancer activity to background levels in micromass cultures and in ovo embryonic chicken wing bioassays, whereas mutation of two Sox-only binding sites caused a significant increase in activity. These results indicate that the Fox/Sox binding sites are required for activity, while the Sox-only sites are involved in repression of activity. Mutation of Lmx1b binding sites in GARR caused an overall reduction in enhancer activity in vitro and a dorsal reduction in ovo. Despite a recognized role for Osr2 in joint development, disruption of the predicted Osr2 site did not alter GARR activity. Conclusion: Taken together, our data indicates that GARR integrates positive, repressive, and asymmetrical inputs to fine-tune the expression of Gdf5 during elbow joint development.
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Kehayova YS, Wilkinson JM, Rice SJ, Loughlin J. Mediation of the Same Epigenetic and Transcriptional Effect by Independent Osteoarthritis Risk-Conferring Alleles on a Shared Target Gene, COLGALT2. Arthritis Rheumatol 2023; 75:910-922. [PMID: 36538011 PMCID: PMC10952352 DOI: 10.1002/art.42427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Over 100 DNA variants have been associated with osteoarthritis (OA), including rs1046934, located within a linkage disequilibrium block encompassing part of COLGALT2 and TSEN15. The present study was undertaken to determine the target gene(s) and the mechanism of action of the OA locus using human fetal cartilage, cartilage from OA and femoral neck fracture arthroplasty patients, and a chondrocyte cell model. METHODS Genotyping and methylation array data of DNA from human OA cartilage samples (n = 87) were used to determine whether the rs1046934 genotype is associated with differential DNA methylation at proximal CpGs. Results were replicated in DNA from human arthroplasty (n = 132) and fetal (n = 77) cartilage samples using pyrosequencing. Allelic expression imbalance (AEI) measured the effects of genotype on COLGALT2 and TSEN15 expression. Reporter gene assays and epigenetic editing determined the functional role of regions harboring differentially methylated CpGs. In silico analyses complemented these experiments. RESULTS Three differentially methylated CpGs residing within regulatory regions were detected in the human OA cartilage array data, and 2 of these were replicated in human arthroplasty and fetal cartilage. AEI was detected for COLGALT2 and TSEN15, with associations between expression and methylation for COLGALT2. Reporter gene assays confirmed that the CpGs are in chondrocyte enhancers, with epigenetic editing results directly linking methylation with COLGALT2 expression. CONCLUSION COLGALT2 is a target of this OA locus. We previously characterized another OA locus, marked by rs11583641, that independently targets COLGALT2. The genotype of rs1046934, like rs11583641, mediates its effect by modulating expression of COLGALT2 via methylation changes to CpGs located in enhancers. Although the single-nucleotide polymorphisms, CpGs, and enhancers are distinct between the 2 independent OA risk loci, their effect on COLGALT2 is the same. COLGALT2 is the target of independent OA risk loci sharing a common mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Mark Wilkinson
- Department of Oncology and MetabolismUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| | - Sarah J. Rice
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
| | - John Loughlin
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle UniversityNewcastle upon TyneUK
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Richard D, Capellini TD, Diekman BO. Epigenetics as a mediator of genetic risk in osteoarthritis: role during development, homeostasis, aging, and disease progression. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2023; 324:C1078-C1088. [PMID: 36971423 PMCID: PMC10191130 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00574.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The identification of genomic loci that are associated with osteoarthritis (OA) has provided a starting point for understanding how genetic variation activates catabolic processes in the joint. However, genetic variants can only alter gene expression and cellular function when the epigenetic environment is permissive to these effects. In this review, we provide examples of how epigenetic shifts at distinct life stages can alter the risk for OA, which we posit is critical for the proper interpretation of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). During development, intensive work on the growth and differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) locus has revealed the importance of tissue-specific enhancer activity in controlling both joint development and the subsequent risk for OA. During homeostasis in adults, underlying genetic risk factors may help establish beneficial or catabolic "set points" that dictate tissue function, with a strong cumulative effect on OA risk. During aging, methylation changes and the reorganization of chromatin can "unmask" the effects of genetic variants. The destructive function of variants that alter aging would only mediate effects after reproductive competence and thus avoid any evolutionary selection pressure, as consistent with larger frameworks of biological aging and its relationship to disease. A similar "unmasking" may occur during OA progression, which is supported by the finding of distinct expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) in chondrocytes depending on the degree of tissue degradation. Finally, we propose that massively parallel reporter assays (MPRAs) will be a valuable tool to test the function of putative OA GWAS variants in chondrocytes from different life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Richard
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Terence D Capellini
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Brian O Diekman
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
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8
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Beier F. The impact of omics research on our understanding of osteoarthritis and future treatments. Curr Opin Rheumatol 2023; 35:55-60. [PMID: 36350386 DOI: 10.1097/bor.0000000000000919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review recent studies using 'Omics' approaches (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, single cell analyses) in patient populations and animal models of osteoarthritis (OA), with the goal of identifying disease-modifying mechanisms that could serve as therapeutic and diagnostic targets. RECENT FINDINGS The number of genes, pathways and molecules with potential roles in OA pathogenesis has grown substantially over the last 18 months. Studies have expanded from their traditional focus on cartilage and gene expression to other joint tissues, proteins and metabolites. Single cell approaches provide unprecedented resolution and exciting insights into the heterogeneity of cellular activities in OA. Functional validation and investigation of underlying mechanisms in animal models of OA, in particular genetically engineered mice, link Omics findings to pathophysiology and potential therapeutic applications. SUMMARY Although great progress has been made in the use of Omics approaches to OA, in both animal models and patient samples, much work remains to be done. In addition to filling gaps in data sets not yet existing, integration of data from the various approaches, mechanistic investigations, and linkage of Omics data to patient stratification remain significant challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Beier
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University Bone and Joint Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Thulson E, Davis ES, D’Costa S, Coryell PR, Kramer NE, Mohlke KL, Loeser RF, Diekman BO, Phanstiel DH. 3D chromatin structure in chondrocytes identifies putative osteoarthritis risk genes. Genetics 2022; 222:iyac141. [PMID: 36099032 PMCID: PMC9713432 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have identified over 100 loci associated with osteoarthritis risk, but the majority of osteoarthritis risk variants are noncoding, making it difficult to identify the impacted genes for further study and therapeutic development. To address this need, we used a multiomic approach and genome editing to identify and functionally characterize potential osteoarthritis risk genes. Computational analysis of genome-wide association studies and ChIP-seq data revealed that chondrocyte regulatory loci are enriched for osteoarthritis risk variants. We constructed a chondrocyte-specific regulatory network by mapping 3D chromatin structure and active enhancers in human chondrocytes. We then intersected these data with our previously collected RNA-seq dataset of chondrocytes responding to fibronectin fragment, a known osteoarthritis trigger. Integration of the 3 genomic datasets with recently reported osteoarthritis genome-wide association study variants revealed a refined set of putative causal osteoarthritis variants and their potential target genes. One of the putative target genes identified was SOCS2, which was connected to a putative causal variant by a 170-kb loop and is differentially regulated in response to fibronectin fragment. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated deletion of SOCS2 in primary human chondrocytes from 3 independent donors led to heightened expression of inflammatory markers after fibronectin fragment treatment. These data suggest that SOCS2 plays a role in resolving inflammation in response to cartilage matrix damage and provides a possible mechanistic explanation for its influence on osteoarthritis risk. In total, we identified 56 unique putative osteoarthritis risk genes for further research and potential therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza Thulson
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Eric S Davis
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Susan D’Costa
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Philip R Coryell
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Nicole E Kramer
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Karen L Mohlke
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Richard F Loeser
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Brian O Diekman
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Douglas H Phanstiel
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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Young M, Richard D, Grabowski M, Auerbach BM, de Bakker BS, Hagoort J, Muthuirulan P, Kharkar V, Kurki HK, Betti L, Birkenstock L, Lewton KL, Capellini TD. The developmental impacts of natural selection on human pelvic morphology. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq4884. [PMID: 35977020 PMCID: PMC9385149 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq4884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Evolutionary responses to selection for bipedalism and childbirth have shaped the human pelvis, a structure that differs substantially from that in apes. Morphology related to these factors is present by birth, yet the developmental-genetic mechanisms governing pelvic shape remain largely unknown. Here, we pinpoint and characterize a key gestational window when human-specific pelvic morphology becomes recognizable, as the ilium and the entire pelvis acquire traits essential for human walking and birth. We next use functional genomics to molecularly characterize chondrocytes from different pelvic subelements during this window to reveal their developmental-genetic architectures. We then find notable evidence of ancient selection and genetic constraint on regulatory sequences involved in ilium expansion and growth, findings complemented by our phenotypic analyses showing that variation in iliac traits is reduced in humans compared to African apes. Our datasets provide important resources for musculoskeletal biology and begin to elucidate developmental mechanisms that shape human-specific morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel Young
- Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Richard
- Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Mark Grabowski
- Research Centre in Evolutionary Anthropology and Palaeoecology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
- Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Benjamin M. Auerbach
- Department of Anthropology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Bernadette S. de Bakker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jaco Hagoort
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Vismaya Kharkar
- Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Helen K. Kurki
- Department of Anthropology, University of Victoria, STN CSC, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Lia Betti
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | | | - Kristi L. Lewton
- Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Terence D. Capellini
- Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
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11
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Samadi F, Kahrizi MS, Heydari F, Arefnezhad R, Roghani-Shahraki H, Mokhtari Ardekani A, Rezaei-Tazangi F. Quercetin and Osteoarthritis: A Mechanistic Review on the Present Documents. Pharmacology 2022; 107:464-471. [PMID: 35793647 DOI: 10.1159/000525494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis (OA), as one of the chronic debilitating conditions, affects 15% of people globally and is linked with serious problems, such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and autoimmune inflammatory disorders. The current therapeutic options for this disease include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, surgery, gene therapy, intrasynovial gel injection, and warm needle penetration. However, these approaches may be accompanied by considerable side effects, high costs, and some limitations for patients. Thus, using an alternative way is needed. SUMMARY Presently, natural compounds based-therapies, like flavonoids, have acquired much attention in the current era. One of the compounds belonging to the flavonoid family is quercetin, and its therapeutic effects on disorders related to joints and cartilage have been addressed in vivo and in vitro studies. KEY MESSAGES In this review, we summarized evidence indicating its curative capacity against OA with a mechanistic insight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Samadi
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fateme Heydari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Arefnezhad
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Abnoos Mokhtari Ardekani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Physiology Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Science, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rezaei-Tazangi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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12
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Loughlin J. Translating osteoarthritis genetics research: challenging times ahead. Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:176-182. [PMID: 35033441 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The ultimate goal of molecular genetic studies of human diseases is to translate the discoveries for patient benefit. For diseases that lack licensed disease-modifying therapeutics, such as osteoarthritis (OA), the need is acute. OA is polygenic and affects older individuals, with a recent genome-wide study of over 800 000 individuals adding 52 novel association signals to those already reported on for this common arthritis. Many of the predicted effector genes of these signals encode proteins that are targets of drugs for other indications, highlighting repurposing opportunities. Here, the potential for OA genetic data to translate is discussed, including whether the developmental origin of OA will limit the application of genetic risk data for disease-modification purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Loughlin
- Newcastle University, Biosciences Institute, International Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK.
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Lange M, Begolli R, Giakountis A. Non-Coding Variants in Cancer: Mechanistic Insights and Clinical Potential for Personalized Medicine. Noncoding RNA 2021; 7:47. [PMID: 34449663 PMCID: PMC8395730 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna7030047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cancer genome is characterized by extensive variability, in the form of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) or structural variations such as Copy Number Alterations (CNAs) across wider genomic areas. At the molecular level, most SNPs and/or CNAs reside in non-coding sequences, ultimately affecting the regulation of oncogenes and/or tumor-suppressors in a cancer-specific manner. Notably, inherited non-coding variants can predispose for cancer decades prior to disease onset. Furthermore, accumulation of additional non-coding driver mutations during progression of the disease, gives rise to genomic instability, acting as the driving force of neoplastic development and malignant evolution. Therefore, detection and characterization of such mutations can improve risk assessment for healthy carriers and expand the diagnostic and therapeutic toolbox for the patient. This review focuses on functional variants that reside in transcribed or not transcribed non-coding regions of the cancer genome and presents a collection of appropriate state-of-the-art methodologies to study them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Lange
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (M.L.); (R.B.)
| | - Rodiola Begolli
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (M.L.); (R.B.)
| | - Antonis Giakountis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (M.L.); (R.B.)
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, B.S.R.C “Alexander Fleming”, 34 Fleming Str., 16672 Vari, Greece
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