1
|
Guillen-Angel M, Roignant JY. Exploring pseudouridylation: dysregulation in disease and therapeutic potential. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 87:102210. [PMID: 38833893 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Pseudouridine (Ψ), the most abundant RNA modification, plays a role in pre-mRNA splicing, RNA stability, protein translation efficiency, and cellular responses to environmental stress. Dysregulation of pseudouridylation is linked to human diseases. This review explores recent insights into the role of RNA pseudouridylation alterations in human disorders and the therapeutic potential of Ψ. We discuss the impact of the reduction of Ψ levels in ribosomal, messenger, and transfer RNA in RNA processing, protein translation, and consequently its role in neurodevelopmental diseases and cancer. Furthermore, we review the success of N1-methyl-Ψ messenger RNA vaccines against COVID-19 and the development of RNA-guided pseudouridylation enzymes for treating genetic diseases caused by premature stop codons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Guillen-Angel
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Yves Roignant
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Staudingerweg 5, 55128 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Virijevic M, Marjanovic I, Andjelkovic M, Jakovic L, Micic D, Bogdanovic A, Pavlovic S. Novel telomerase reverse transcriptase gene mutation in a family with aplastic anaemia. Fam Cancer 2024:10.1007/s10689-024-00399-8. [PMID: 38795222 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-024-00399-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase (TERT) encodes the telomerase reverse transcriptase enzyme and is the most frequently mutated gene in patients with telomeropathies. Heterozygous variants impair telomerase activity by haploinsufficiency and pathogenic variants are associated with bone marrow failure syndrome and predisposition to acute myeloid leukaemia. Owing to their rarity, telomeropathies are often unrecognised and misdiagnosed. Herein, we report a novel TERT gene variant, c.2605G > A p.(Asp869Asn) in a family with hereditary aplastic anaemia. This report emphasises the importance of routine deep genetic screening for rare TERT variants in patients with a family history of cytopenia or aplastic anaemia, which could identify clinically inapparent telomere disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Virijevic
- Clinic of Hematology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - I Marjanovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - M Andjelkovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Lj Jakovic
- Clinic of Hematology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - D Micic
- Mother and Child Health Care Institute of Serbia "Dr Vukan Cupic", Belgrade, Serbia
| | - A Bogdanovic
- Clinic of Hematology, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - S Pavlovic
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Laboratory for Molecular Biomedicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fernández-Varas B, Manguan-García C, Rodriguez-Centeno J, Mendoza-Lupiáñez L, Calatayud J, Perona R, Martín-Martínez M, Gutierrez-Rodriguez M, Benítez-Buelga C, Sastre L. Clinical mutations in the TERT and TERC genes coding for telomerase components induced oxidative stress, DNA damage at telomeres and cell apoptosis besides decreased telomerase activity. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:818-834. [PMID: 38641551 PMCID: PMC11031360 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddae015] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are nucleoprotein structures at the end of chromosomes that maintain their integrity. Mutations in genes coding for proteins involved in telomere protection and elongation produce diseases such as dyskeratosis congenita or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis known as telomeropathies. These diseases are characterized by premature telomere shortening, increased DNA damage and oxidative stress. Genetic diagnosis of telomeropathy patients has identified mutations in the genes TERT and TERC coding for telomerase components but the functional consequences of many of these mutations still have to be experimentally demonstrated. The activity of twelve TERT and five TERC mutants, five of them identified in Spanish patients, has been analyzed. TERT and TERC mutants were expressed in VA-13 human cells that express low telomerase levels and the activity induced was analyzed. The production of reactive oxygen species, DNA oxidation and TRF2 association at telomeres, DNA damage response and cell apoptosis were determined. Most mutations presented decreased telomerase activity, as compared to wild-type TERT and TERC. In addition, the expression of several TERT and TERC mutants induced oxidative stress, DNA oxidation, DNA damage, decreased recruitment of the shelterin component TRF2 to telomeres and increased apoptosis. These observations might indicate that the increase in DNA damage and oxidative stress observed in cells from telomeropathy patients is dependent on their TERT or TERC mutations. Therefore, analysis of the effect of TERT and TERC mutations of unknown function on DNA damage and oxidative stress could be of great utility to determine the possible pathogenicity of these variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Fernández-Varas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Manguan-García
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III. C. Melchor Fernandez de Almagro, 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Rodriguez-Centeno
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucía Mendoza-Lupiáñez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Joaquin Calatayud
- Departamento de Biología y Geología, Física y Química inorgánica. ESCET, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/Tulipán s/n, Móstoles, C.P. 28933 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosario Perona
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III. C. Melchor Fernandez de Almagro, 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Calle Monforte de Lemos 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Carlos Benítez-Buelga
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Leandro Sastre
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols/Morreale CSIC/UAM, Arturo Duperier 4, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III. C. Melchor Fernandez de Almagro, 3, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lasho T, Patnaik MM. Adaptive and Maladaptive Clonal Hematopoiesis in Telomere Biology Disorders. Curr Hematol Malig Rep 2024; 19:35-44. [PMID: 38095828 DOI: 10.1007/s11899-023-00719-2] [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] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) are germline-inherited conditions characterized by reduction in telomerase function, accelerated shortening of telomeres, predisposition to organ-failure syndromes, and increased risk of neoplasms, especially myeloid malignancies. In normal cells, critically short telomeres trigger apoptosis and/or cellular senescence. However, the evolutionary mechanism by which TBD-related telomerase-deficient cells can overcome this fitness constraint remains elusive. RECENT FINDINGS Preliminary data suggests the existence of adaptive somatic mosaic states characterized by variants in TBD-related genes and maladaptive somatic mosaic states that attempt to overcome hematopoietic fitness constraints by alternative methods leading to clonal hematopoiesis. TBDs are both rare and highly heterogeneous in presentation, and the association of TBD with malignant transformation is unclear. Understanding the clonal complexity and mechanisms behind TBD-associated molecular signatures that lead to somatic adaptation in the setting of defective hematopoiesis will help inform therapy and treatment for this set of diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terra Lasho
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Mrinal M Patnaik
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic Rochester, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schertzer M, Jullien L, Pinto AL, Calado RT, Revy P, Londoño-Vallejo A. Human RTEL1 Interacts with KPNB1 (Importin β) and NUP153 and Connects Nuclear Import to Nuclear Envelope Stability in S-Phase. Cells 2023; 12:2798. [PMID: 38132118 PMCID: PMC10741959 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242798] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulator of TElomere Length Helicase 1 (RTEL1) is a helicase required for telomere maintenance and genome replication and repair. RTEL1 has been previously shown to participate in the nuclear export of small nuclear RNAs. Here we show that RTEL1 deficiency leads to a nuclear envelope destabilization exclusively in cells entering S-phase and in direct connection to origin firing. We discovered that inhibiting protein import also leads to similar, albeit non-cell cycle-related, nuclear envelope disruptions. Remarkably, overexpression of wild-type RTEL1, or of its C-terminal part lacking the helicase domain, protects cells against nuclear envelope anomalies mediated by protein import inhibition. We identified distinct domains in the C-terminus of RTEL1 essential for the interaction with KPNB1 (importin β) and NUP153, respectively, and we demonstrated that, on its own, the latter domain can promote the dynamic nuclear internalization of peptides that freely diffuse through the nuclear pore. Consistent with putative functions exerted in protein import, RTEL1 can be visualized on both sides of the nuclear pore using high-resolution microscopy. In all, our work points to an unanticipated, helicase-independent, role of RTEL1 in connecting both nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and nuclear envelope integrity to genome replication initiation in S-phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Schertzer
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR3244, F-75005 Paris, France;
- Sorbonne Universités, CNRS, UMR3244, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Laurent Jullien
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, F-75006 Paris, France; (L.J.); (P.R.)
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - André L. Pinto
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14049-900, Brazil; (A.L.P.); (R.T.C.)
| | - Rodrigo T. Calado
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14049-900, Brazil; (A.L.P.); (R.T.C.)
| | - Patrick Revy
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer, F-75006 Paris, France; (L.J.); (P.R.)
- Paris Descartes–Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Imagine Institute, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Arturo Londoño-Vallejo
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR3244, F-75005 Paris, France;
- Sorbonne Universités, CNRS, UMR3244, F-75005 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Stock AJ, Ayyar S, Kashyap A, Wang Y, Yanai H, Starost MF, Tanaka-Yano M, Bodogai M, Sun C, Wang Y, Gong Y, Puligilla C, Fang EF, Bohr VA, Liu Y, Beerman I. Boosting NAD ameliorates hematopoietic impairment linked to short telomeres in vivo. GeroScience 2023; 45:2213-2228. [PMID: 36826621 PMCID: PMC10651621 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00752-2] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Short telomeres are a defining feature of telomere biology disorders (TBDs), including dyskeratosis congenita (DC), for which there is no effective general cure. Patients with TBDs often experience bone marrow failure. NAD, an essential metabolic coenzyme, is decreased in models of DC. Herein, using telomerase reverse transcriptase null (Tert-/-) mice with critically short telomeres, we investigated the effect of NAD supplementation with the NAD precursor, nicotinamide riboside (NR), on features of health span disrupted by telomere impairment. Our results revealed that NR ameliorated body weight loss in Tert-/- mice and improved telomere integrity and telomere dysfunction-induced systemic inflammation. NR supplementation also mitigated myeloid skewing of Tert-/- hematopoietic stem cells. Furthermore, NR alleviated villous atrophy and inflammation in the small intestine of Tert-/- transplant recipient mice. Altogether, our findings support NAD intervention as a potential therapeutic strategy to enhance aspects of health span compromised by telomere attrition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Stock
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Saipriya Ayyar
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Amogh Kashyap
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yunong Wang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hagai Yanai
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew F Starost
- Division of Veterinary Resources, Building 14E, National Institutes of Health, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mayuri Tanaka-Yano
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Monica Bodogai
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chongkui Sun
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yajun Wang
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yi Gong
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chandrakala Puligilla
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Evandro F Fang
- DNA Repair Section, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Clinical Molecular Biology, University of Oslo and Akershus University Hospital, 1478, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Vilhelm A Bohr
- DNA Repair Section, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Yie Liu
- Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Isabel Beerman
- Translational Gerontology Branch, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute On Aging/National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Schreglmann SR, Goncalves T, Grant-Peters M, Kia DA, Soreq L, Ryten M, Wood NW, Bhatia KP, Tomita K. Age-related telomere attrition in the human putamen. Aging Cell 2023:e13861. [PMID: 37129365 PMCID: PMC10352551 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Age is a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Shortening of leucocyte telomeres with advancing age, arguably a measure of "biological" age, is a known phenomenon and epidemiologically correlated with age-related disease. The main mechanism of telomere shortening is cell division, rendering telomere length in post-mitotic cells presumably stable. Longitudinal measurement of human brain telomere length is not feasible, and cross-sectional cortical brain samples so far indicated no attrition with age. Hence, age-related changes in telomere length in the brain and the association between telomere length and neurodegenerative diseases remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that mean telomere length in the putamen, a part of the basal ganglia, physiologically shortens with age, like leukocyte telomeres. This was achieved by using matched brain and leukocyte-rich spleen samples from 98 post-mortem healthy human donors. Using spleen telomeres as a reference, we further found that mean telomere length was brain region-specific, as telomeres in the putamen were significantly shorter than in the cerebellum. Expression analyses of genes involved in telomere length regulation and oxidative phosphorylation revealed that both region- and age-dependent expression pattern corresponded with region-dependent telomere length dynamics. Collectively, our results indicate that mean telomere length in the human putamen physiologically shortens with advancing age and that both local and temporal gene expression dynamics correlate with this, pointing at a potential mechanism for the selective, age-related vulnerability of the nigro-striatal network.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian R Schreglmann
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Tomas Goncalves
- Chromosome Maintenance Group, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
- Centre for Genome Engineering and Maintenance, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Grant-Peters
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Demis A Kia
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Lilach Soreq
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mina Ryten
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- NIHR Great Ormond Street Hospital Biomedical Research Centre, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas W Wood
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kailash P Bhatia
- Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kazunori Tomita
- Chromosome Maintenance Group, UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, UK
- Centre for Genome Engineering and Maintenance, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bryan TM. Nucleotide metabolism regulates human telomere length via telomerase activation. Nat Genet 2023; 55:532-533. [PMID: 36997693 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01359-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
|
9
|
Post-Transcriptional and Post-Translational Modifications in Telomerase Biogenesis and Recruitment to Telomeres. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24055027. [PMID: 36902458 PMCID: PMC10003056 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24055027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere length is associated with the proliferative potential of cells. Telomerase is an enzyme that elongates telomeres throughout the entire lifespan of an organism in stem cells, germ cells, and cells of constantly renewed tissues. It is activated during cellular division, including regeneration and immune responses. The biogenesis of telomerase components and their assembly and functional localization to the telomere is a complex system regulated at multiple levels, where each step must be tuned to the cellular requirements. Any defect in the function or localization of the components of the telomerase biogenesis and functional system will affect the maintenance of telomere length, which is critical to the processes of regeneration, immune response, embryonic development, and cancer progression. An understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of telomerase biogenesis and activity is necessary for the development of approaches toward manipulating telomerase to influence these processes. The present review focuses on the molecular mechanisms involved in the major steps of telomerase regulation and the role of post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications in telomerase biogenesis and function in yeast and vertebrates.
Collapse
|
10
|
Nelson N, Feurstein S, Niaz A, Truong J, Holien JK, Lucas S, Fairfax K, Dickinson J, Bryan TM. Functional genomics for curation of variants in telomere biology disorder associated genes: A systematic review. Genet Med 2023; 25:100354. [PMID: 36496180 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with an underlying telomere biology disorder (TBD) have variable clinical presentations, and they can be challenging to diagnose clinically. A genomic diagnosis for patients presenting with TBD is vital for optimal treatment. Unfortunately, many variants identified during diagnostic testing are variants of uncertain significance. This complicates management decisions, delays treatment, and risks nonuptake of potentially curative therapies. Improved application of functional genomic evidence may reduce variants of uncertain significance classifications. METHODS We systematically searched the literature for published functional assays interrogating TBD gene variants. When possible, established likely benign/benign and likely pathogenic/pathogenic variants were used to estimate the assay sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and odds of pathogenicity. RESULTS In total, 3131 articles were screened and 151 met inclusion criteria. Sufficient data to enable a PS3/BS3 recommendation were available for TERT variants only. We recommend that PS3 and BS3 can be applied at a moderate and supportive level, respectively. PS3/BS3 application was limited by a lack of assay standardization and limited inclusion of benign variants. CONCLUSION Further assay standardization and assessment of benign variants are required for optimal use of the PS3/BS3 criterion for TBD gene variant classification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niles Nelson
- The Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, The University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; Department of Molecular Medicine, The Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; Department of Molecular Haematology, The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Simone Feurstein
- Section of Hematology, Oncology, and Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aram Niaz
- Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jia Truong
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica K Holien
- School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sionne Lucas
- The Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, The University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Kirsten Fairfax
- The Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, The University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joanne Dickinson
- The Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, The University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tracy M Bryan
- Children's Medical Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Revy P, Kannengiesser C, Bertuch AA. Genetics of human telomere biology disorders. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:86-108. [PMID: 36151328 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-022-00527-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein structures at the ends of linear chromosomes that prevent the activation of DNA damage response and repair pathways. Numerous factors localize at telomeres to regulate their length, structure and function, to avert replicative senescence or genome instability and cell death. In humans, Mendelian defects in several of these factors can result in abnormally short or dysfunctional telomeres, causing a group of rare heterogeneous premature-ageing diseases, termed telomeropathies, short-telomere syndromes or telomere biology disorders (TBDs). Here, we review the TBD-causing genes identified so far and describe their main functions associated with telomere biology. We present molecular aspects of TBDs, including genetic anticipation, phenocopy, incomplete penetrance and somatic genetic rescue, which underlie the complexity of these diseases. We also discuss the implications of phenotypic and genetic features of TBDs on fundamental aspects related to human telomere biology, ageing and cancer, as well as on diagnostic, therapeutic and clinical approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Revy
- INSERM UMR 1163, Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Paris, France.
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris, France.
| | - Caroline Kannengiesser
- APHP Service de Génétique, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France
- Inserm U1152, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Alison A Bertuch
- Departments of Paediatrics and Molecular & Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Altered Nucleotide Insertion Mechanisms of Disease-Associated TERT Variants. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14020281. [PMID: 36833208 PMCID: PMC9957172 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) are a spectrum of diseases that arise from mutations in genes responsible for maintaining telomere integrity. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) adds nucleotides to chromosome ends and is frequently mutated in individuals with TBDs. Previous studies have provided insight into how relative changes in hTERT activity can lead to pathological outcomes. However, the underlying mechanisms describing how disease-associated variants alter the physicochemical steps of nucleotide insertion remain poorly understood. To address this, we applied single-turnover kinetics and computer simulations to the Tribolium castaneum TERT (tcTERT) model system and characterized the nucleotide insertion mechanisms of six disease-associated variants. Each variant had distinct consequences on tcTERT's nucleotide insertion mechanism, including changes in nucleotide binding affinity, rates of catalysis, or ribonucleotide selectivity. Our computer simulations provide insight into how each variant disrupts active site organization, such as suboptimal positioning of active site residues, destabilization of the DNA 3' terminus, or changes in nucleotide sugar pucker. Collectively, this work provides a holistic characterization of the nucleotide insertion mechanisms for multiple disease-associated TERT variants and identifies additional functions of key active site residues during nucleotide insertion.
Collapse
|
13
|
Lambert-Lanteigne P, Young A, Autexier C. Complex interaction network revealed by mutation of human telomerase 'insertion in fingers' and essential N-terminal domains and the telomere protein TPP1. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102916. [PMID: 36649908 PMCID: PMC9958494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the majority of human cancer cells, cellular immortalization depends on the maintenance of telomere length by telomerase. An essential step required for telomerase function is its recruitment to telomeres, which is regulated by the interaction of the telomere protein, TPP1, with the telomerase essential N-terminal (TEN) domain of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase, hTERT. We previously reported that the hTERT 'insertion in fingers domain' (IFD) recruits telomerase to telomeres in a TPP1-dependent manner. Here, we use hTERT truncations and the IFD domain containing mutations in conserved residues or premature aging disease-associated mutations to map the interactions between the IFD and TPP1. We find that the hTERT-IFD domain can interact with TPP1. However, deletion of the IFD motif in hTERT lacking the N-terminus and the C-terminal extension does not abolish interaction with TPP1, suggesting the IFD is not essential for hTERT interaction with TPP1. Several conserved residues in the central IFD-TRAP region that we reported regulate telomerase recruitment to telomeres, and cell immortalization compromise interaction of the hTERT-IFD domain with TPP1 when mutated. Using a similar approach, we find that the IFD domain interacts with the TEN domain but is not essential for intramolecular hTERT interactions with the TEN domain. IFD-TEN interactions are not disrupted by multiple amino acid changes in the IFD or TEN, thus highlighting a complex regulation of IFD-TEN interactions as suggested by recent cryo-EM structures of human telomerase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Adrian Young
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Canada
| | - Chantal Autexier
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Han J, Song JW. Dyskeratosis congenita with heterozygous RTEL1 mutations presenting with fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Respir Med Case Rep 2023; 42:101810. [PMID: 36655009 PMCID: PMC9841051 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2023.101810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyskeratosis congenita is a rare genetic disorder of telomere insufficiency characterized by a mucocutaneous triad of nail dystrophy, abnormal skin pigmentation, and mucosal leukoplakia. Early diagnosis is important for multidisciplinary approach to its complications including bone marrow failure, malignancy, interstitial lung disease, and liver disease which cause significant morbidity and mortality. We report a genetically confirmed case of dyskeratosis congenita who presented with fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, highlighting non-mucocutaneous features of dyskeratosis congenita and the need to consider genetic predisposition in a patient with interstitial lung disease and combined unusual manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinhee Han
- Department of Internal Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woo Song
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author. Department of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
The International Consensus Classification (ICC) of hematologic neoplasms with germline predisposition, pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome, and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Virchows Arch 2023; 482:113-130. [PMID: 36445482 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-022-03447-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Updating the classification of hematologic neoplasia with germline predisposition, pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is critical for diagnosis, therapy, research, and clinical trials. Advances in next-generation sequencing technology have led to the identification of an expanding group of genes that predispose to the development of hematolymphoid neoplasia when mutated in germline configuration and inherited. This review encompasses recent advances in the classification of myeloid and lymphoblastic neoplasia with germline predisposition summarizing important genetic and phenotypic information, relevant laboratory testing, and pathologic bone marrow features. Genes are organized into three major categories including (1) those that are not associated with constitutional disorder and include CEBPA, DDX41, and TP53; (2) those associated with thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction including RUNX1, ANKRD26, and ETV6; and (3) those associated with constitutional disorders affecting multiple organ systems including GATA2, SAMD9, and SAMD9L, inherited genetic mutations associated with classic bone marrow failure syndromes and JMML, and Down syndrome. A provisional category of germline predisposition genes is created to recognize genes with growing evidence that may be formally included in future revised classifications as substantial supporting data emerges. We also detail advances in the classification of pediatric myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), expanding the definition of refractory cytopenia of childhood (RCC) to include early manifestation of MDS in patients with germline predisposition. Finally, updates in the classification of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia are presented which genetically define JMML as a myeloproliferative/myelodysplastic disease harboring canonical RAS pathway mutations. Diseases with features overlapping with JMML that do not carry RAS pathway mutations are classified as JMML-like. The review is based on the International Consensus Classification (ICC) of Myeloid and Lymphoid Neoplasms as reported by Arber et al. (Blood 140(11):1200-1228, 2022).
Collapse
|
16
|
Zheng B, Fu J. Telomere dysfunction in some pediatric congenital and growth-related diseases. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1133102. [PMID: 37077333 PMCID: PMC10106694 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1133102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomere wear and dysfunction may lead to aging-related diseases. Moreover, increasing evidence show that the occurrence, development, and prognosis of some pediatric diseases are also related to telomere dysfunction. In this review, we systematically analyzed the relationship between telomere biology and some pediatric congenital and growth-related diseases and proposed new theoretical basis and therapeutic targets for the treatment of these diseases.
Collapse
|
17
|
Dyskeratosis congenita and telomere biology disorders. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2022; 2022:637-648. [PMID: 36485133 PMCID: PMC9821046 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2022000394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Numerous genetic discoveries and the advent of clinical telomere length testing have led to the recognition of a spectrum of telomere biology disorders (TBDs) beyond the classic dyskeratosis congenita (DC) triad of nail dysplasia, abnormal skin pigmentation, and oral leukoplakia occurring with pediatric bone marrow failure. Patients with DC/TBDs have very short telomeres for their age and are at high risk of bone marrow failure, cancer, pulmonary fibrosis (PF), pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, liver disease, stenosis of the urethra, esophagus, and/or lacrimal ducts, avascular necrosis of the hips and/or shoulders, and other medical problems. However, many patients with TBDs do not develop classic DC features; they may present in middle age and/or with just 1 feature, such as PF or aplastic anemia. TBD-associated clinical manifestations are progressive and attributed to aberrant telomere biology caused by the X-linked recessive, autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or de novo occurrence of pathogenic germline variants in at least 18 different genes. This review describes the genetics and clinical manifestations of TBDs and highlights areas in need of additional clinical and basic science research.
Collapse
|
18
|
Coats plus syndrome with new observation of drusenoid retinal pigment epithelial detachments in a teenager. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2022; 28:101713. [PMID: 36177296 PMCID: PMC9513731 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2022.101713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
|
19
|
The genetics of monogenic intestinal epithelial disorders. Hum Genet 2022; 142:613-654. [PMID: 36422736 PMCID: PMC10182130 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02501-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Monogenic intestinal epithelial disorders, also known as congenital diarrheas and enteropathies (CoDEs), are a group of rare diseases that result from mutations in genes that primarily affect intestinal epithelial cell function. Patients with CoDE disorders generally present with infantile-onset diarrhea and poor growth, and often require intensive fluid and nutritional management. CoDE disorders can be classified into several categories that relate to broad areas of epithelial function, structure, and development. The advent of accessible and low-cost genetic sequencing has accelerated discovery in the field with over 45 different genes now associated with CoDE disorders. Despite this increasing knowledge in the causal genetics of disease, the underlying cellular pathophysiology remains incompletely understood for many disorders. Consequently, clinical management options for CoDE disorders are currently limited and there is an urgent need for new and disorder-specific therapies. In this review, we provide a general overview of CoDE disorders, including a historical perspective of the field and relationship to other monogenic disorders of the intestine. We describe the genetics, clinical presentation, and known pathophysiology for specific disorders. Lastly, we describe the major challenges relating to CoDE disorders, briefly outline key areas that need further study, and provide a perspective on the future genetic and therapeutic landscape.
Collapse
|
20
|
Papiris SA, Kannengiesser C, Borie R, Kolilekas L, Kallieri M, Apollonatou V, Ba I, Nathan N, Bush A, Griese M, Dieude P, Crestani B, Manali ED. Genetics in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Clinical Perspective. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:2928. [PMID: 36552935 PMCID: PMC9777433 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12122928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unraveling the genetic background in a significant proportion of patients with both sporadic and familial IPF provided new insights into the pathogenic pathways of pulmonary fibrosis. AIM The aim of the present study is to overview the clinical significance of genetics in IPF. PERSPECTIVE It is fascinating to realize the so-far underestimated but dynamically increasing impact that genetics has on aspects related to the pathophysiology, accurate and early diagnosis, and treatment and prevention of this devastating disease. Genetics in IPF have contributed as no other in unchaining the disease from the dogma of a "a sporadic entity of the elderly, limited to the lungs" and allowed all scientists, but mostly clinicians, all over the world to consider its many aspects and "faces" in all age groups, including its co-existence with several extra pulmonary conditions from cutaneous albinism to bone-marrow and liver failure. CONCLUSION By providing additional evidence for unsuspected characteristics such as immunodeficiency, impaired mucus, and surfactant and telomere maintenance that very often co-exist through the interaction of common and rare genetic variants in the same patient, genetics have created a generous and pluralistic yet unifying platform that could lead to the understanding of the injurious and pro-fibrotic effects of many seemingly unrelated extrinsic and intrinsic offending factors. The same platform constantly instructs us about our limitations as well as about the heritability, the knowledge and the wisdom that is still missing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Spyros A. Papiris
- 2nd Pulmonary Medicine Department, General University Hospital “Attikon”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Caroline Kannengiesser
- Département de Génétique, APHP Hôpital Bichat, Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France
- INSERM UMR 1152, Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Raphael Borie
- Service de Pneumologie A, INSERM UMR_1152, Centre de Référence des Maladies Pulmonaires Rares, FHU APOLLO, APHP Hôpital Bichat, Sorbonne Université, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Lykourgos Kolilekas
- 7th Pulmonary Department, Athens Chest Hospital “Sotiria”, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Kallieri
- 2nd Pulmonary Medicine Department, General University Hospital “Attikon”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Apollonatou
- 2nd Pulmonary Medicine Department, General University Hospital “Attikon”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Ibrahima Ba
- Département de Génétique, APHP Hôpital Bichat, Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Nadia Nathan
- Peditric Pulmonology Department and Reference Centre for Rare Lung Diseases RespiRare, INSERM UMR_S933 Laboratory of Childhood Genetic Diseases, Armand Trousseau Hospital, Sorbonne University and APHP, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Andrew Bush
- Paediatrics and Paediatric Respirology, Imperial College, Imperial Centre for Paediatrics and Child Health, Royal Brompton Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Matthias Griese
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Dr von Hauner Children’s Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, German Center for Lung Research, 80337 Munich, Germany
| | - Philippe Dieude
- Department of Rheumatology, INSERM U1152, APHP Hôpital Bichat-Claude Bernard, Université de Paris, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Bruno Crestani
- Service de Pneumologie A, INSERM UMR_1152, Centre de Référence des Maladies Pulmonaires Rares, FHU APOLLO, APHP Hôpital Bichat, Sorbonne Université, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Effrosyni D. Manali
- 2nd Pulmonary Medicine Department, General University Hospital “Attikon”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zafirovic S, Macvanin M, Stanimirovic J, Obradovic M, Radovanovic J, Melih I, Isenovic E. Association Between Telomere Length and Cardiovascular Risk: Pharmacological Treatments Affecting Telomeres and Telomerase Activity. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2022; 20:465-474. [PMID: 35986545 DOI: 10.2174/1570161120666220819164240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres represent the ends of chromosomes, and they are composed of an extensive number of - TTAGGG nucleotide sequence repeats in humans. Telomeres prevent chromosome degradation, participate in stabilization, and regulate the DNA repair system. Inflammation and oxidative stress have been identified as important processes causing cardiovascular disease and accelerating telomere shortening rate. This review investigates the link between telomere length and pathological vascular conditions from experimental and human studies. Also, we discuss pharmacological treatments affecting telomeres and telomerase activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Zafirovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mirjana Macvanin
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Julijana Stanimirovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Obradovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Radovanovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Irena Melih
- Faculty of Stomatology, Pancevo, University Business Academy, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Esma Isenovic
- Department of Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Genetic Variants of the TERT Gene and Telomere Length in Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10112755. [PMID: 36359275 PMCID: PMC9688013 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a worldwide breathing disorder that has been diagnosed globally in almost 1 billion individuals aged 30−69 years. It is characterized by repeated upper airway collapses during sleep. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is involved in the prevention of telomere shortening. This prospective, observational study aimed to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TERT and the severity of OSA, taking into account hypertension and diabetes prevalence. Methods: A total of 149 patients with OSA were diagnosed using one-night video-polysomnography based on the American Academy of Sleep Medicine guidelines. The TERT SNPs and telomere length (TL) were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Statistical analysis showed that there is no relationship between the rs2853669 and rs2736100 polymorphisms of TERT, and the severity of OSA (p > 0.05). Moreover, no relationship between TL and the severity of OSA was observed. The G allele in the locus of rs2736100 TERT was associated with hypertension prevalence and was more prevalent in hypertensives patients (46.00% vs. 24.49%, p = 0.011). The prevalence of hypertension was higher in patients with the C allele in the locus of rs2853669 than in patients without this allele (50.79% vs. 30.23%, p = 0.010). Moreover, a lower prevalence of diabetes was observed in homozygotes of rs2736100 TERT than in heterozygotes (5.63% vs. 15.38%, p = 0.039). Conclusion: This study showed no relationship between OSA and TERT SNPs. However, SNPs of the TERT gene (rs2736100 and rs2853669) were found to affect arterial hypertension and diabetes prevalence.
Collapse
|
23
|
Carvalho VS, Gomes WR, Calado RT. Recent advances in understanding telomere diseases. Fac Rev 2022; 11:31. [PMID: 36311538 PMCID: PMC9586155 DOI: 10.12703/r/11-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline genetic defects impairing telomere length maintenance may result in severe medical conditions in humans, from aplastic anemia and myeloid neoplasms to interstitial lung disease and liver cirrhosis, from childhood (dyskeratosis congenita) to old age (pulmonary fibrosis). The molecular mechanisms underlying these clinically distinct disorders are pathologically excessive telomere erosion, limiting cell proliferation and differentiation, tissue regeneration, and increasing genomic instability. Recent findings also indicate that telomere shortening imbalances stem cell fate and is associated with an abnormal inflammatory response and the senescent-associated secretory phenotype. Bone marrow failure is the most common phenotype in patients with telomere diseases. Pulmonary fibrosis is a typical phenotype in older patients, and disease progression appears faster than in pulmonary fibrosis not associated with telomeropathies. Liver cirrhosis may present in isolation or in combination with other phenotypes. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and may be confirmed by telomere length measurement and genetic testing. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques have improved genetic testing; today, at least 16 genes have been implicated in telomeropathies. NGS also allows tracking of clonal hematopoiesis and malignant transformation. Patients with telomere diseases are at high risk of developing cancers, including myeloid neoplasms and head and neck cancer. However, treatment options are still limited. Transplant modalities (bone marrow, lung, and liver) may be definitive to the respective organ involvement but limited by donor availability, comorbidities, and impact on other affected organs. In clinical trials, androgens elongate telomeres of peripheral blood leukocytes and improve hematopoiesis. Further understanding of how telomere erosion impairs organ function and how somatic mutations evolve in the hematopoietic tissue may help develop new strategies to treat and prevent telomere diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius S Carvalho
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Willian R Gomes
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo T Calado
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hematology, and Oncology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Batista LFZ, Dokal I, Parker R. Telomere biology disorders: time for moving towards the clinic? Trends Mol Med 2022; 28:882-891. [PMID: 36057525 PMCID: PMC9509473 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2022.08.001] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) are a group of rare diseases caused by mutations that impair telomere maintenance. Mutations that cause reduced levels of TERC/hTR, the telomerase RNA component, are found in most TBD patients and include loss-of-function mutations in hTR itself, in hTR-binding proteins [NOP10, NHP2, NAF1, ZCCHC8, and dyskerin (DKC1)], and in proteins required for hTR processing (PARN). These patients show diverse clinical presentations that most commonly include bone marrow failure (BMF)/aplastic anemia (AA), pulmonary fibrosis, and liver cirrhosis. There are no curative therapies for TBD patients. An understanding of hTR biogenesis, maturation, and degradation has identified pathways and pharmacological agents targeting the poly(A) polymerase PAPD5, which adds 3'-oligoadenosine tails to hTR to promote hTR degradation, and TGS1, which modifies the 5'-cap structure of hTR to enhance degradation, as possible therapeutic approaches. Critical next steps will be clinical trials to establish the effectiveness and potential side effects of these compounds in TBD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Z Batista
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Inderjeet Dokal
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Roy Parker
- Department of Biochemistry and Biofrontiers Instiute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA; Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Nagpal N, Tai AK, Nandakumar J, Agarwal S. Domain specific mutations in dyskerin disrupt 3' end processing of scaRNA13. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:9413-9425. [PMID: 36018809 PMCID: PMC9458449 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in DKC1 (encoding dyskerin) cause telomere diseases including dyskeratosis congenita (DC) by decreasing steady-state levels of TERC, the non-coding RNA component of telomerase. How DKC1 mutations variably impact numerous other snoRNAs remains unclear, which is a barrier to understanding disease mechanisms in DC beyond impaired telomere maintenance. Here, using DC patient iPSCs, we show that mutations in the dyskerin N-terminal extension domain (NTE) dysregulate scaRNA13. In iPSCs carrying the del37L NTE mutation or engineered to carry NTE mutations via CRISPR/Cas9, but not in those with C-terminal mutations, we found scaRNA13 transcripts with aberrant 3' extensions, as seen when the exoribonuclease PARN is mutated in DC. Biogenesis of scaRNA13 was rescued by repair of the del37L DKC1 mutation by genome-editing, or genetic or pharmacological inactivation of the polymerase PAPD5, which counteracts PARN. Inspection of the human telomerase cryo-EM structure revealed that in addition to mediating intermolecular dyskerin interactions, the NTE interacts with terminal residues of the associated snoRNA, indicating a role for this domain in 3' end definition. Our results provide mechanistic insights into the interplay of dyskerin and the PARN/PAPD5 axis in the biogenesis and accumulation of snoRNAs beyond TERC, broadening our understanding of ncRNA dysregulation in human diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neha Nagpal
- Division of Hematology/Oncology and Stem Cell Program, Boston Children's Hospital; Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Harvard Stem Cell Institute; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School; Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research; Harvard Initiative in RNA Medicine; Boston, MA, USA
| | - Albert K Tai
- Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Data Intensive Studies Center, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Jayakrishnan Nandakumar
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Suneet Agarwal
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 617 919 4610; Fax: +1 617 919 3359;
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Choo S, Lorbeer FK, Regalado SG, Short SB, Wu S, Rieser G, Bertuch AA, Hockemeyer D. Editing TINF2 as a potential therapeutic approach to restore telomere length in dyskeratosis congenita. Blood 2022; 140:608-618. [PMID: 35421215 PMCID: PMC9373014 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021013750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the TINF2 gene, encoding the shelterin protein TIN2, cause telomere shortening and the inherited bone marrow (BM) failure syndrome dyskeratosis congenita (DC). A lack of suitable model systems limits the mechanistic understanding of telomere shortening in the stem cells and thus hinders the development of treatment options for BM failure. Here, we endogenously introduced TIN2-DC mutations in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) to dissect the disease mechanism and identify a gene-editing strategy that rescued the disease phenotypes. The hESCs with the T284R disease mutation exhibited the short telomere phenotype observed in DC patients. Yet, telomeres in mutant hESCs did not trigger DNA damage responses at telomeres or show exacerbated telomere shortening when differentiated into telomerase-negative cells. Disruption of the mutant TINF2 allele by introducing a frameshift mutation in exon 2 restored telomere length in stem cells and the replicative potential of differentiated cells. Similarly, we introduced TIN2-DC disease variants in human HSPCs to assess the changes in telomere length and proliferative capacity. Lastly, we showed that editing at exon 2 of TINF2 that restored telomere length in hESCs could be generated in TINF2-DC patient HSPCs. Our study demonstrates a simple genetic intervention that rescues the TIN2-DC disease phenotype in stem cells and provides a versatile platform to assess the efficacy of potential therapeutic approaches in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seunga Choo
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Franziska K Lorbeer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Samuel G Regalado
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Sarah B Short
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Shannon Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Gabrielle Rieser
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Alison A Bertuch
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Dirk Hockemeyer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA; and
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shakirov EV, Chen JJL, Shippen DE. Plant telomere biology: The green solution to the end-replication problem. THE PLANT CELL 2022; 34:2492-2504. [PMID: 35511166 PMCID: PMC9252485 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Telomere maintenance is a fundamental cellular process conserved across all eukaryotic lineages. Although plants and animals diverged over 1.5 billion years ago, lessons learned from plants continue to push the boundaries of science, revealing detailed molecular mechanisms in telomere biology with broad implications for human health, aging biology, and stress responses. Recent studies of plant telomeres have unveiled unexpected divergence in telomere sequence and architecture, and the proteins that engage telomeric DNA and telomerase. The discovery of telomerase RNA components in the plant kingdom and some algae groups revealed new insight into the divergent evolution and the universal core of telomerase across major eukaryotic kingdoms. In addition, resources cataloging the abundant natural variation in Arabidopsis thaliana, maize (Zea mays), and other plants are providing unparalleled opportunities to understand the genetic networks that govern telomere length polymorphism and, as a result, are uncovering unanticipated crosstalk between telomeres, environmental factors, organismal fitness, and plant physiology. Here we recap current advances in plant telomere biology and put this field in perspective relative to telomere and telomerase research in other eukaryotic lineages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene V Shakirov
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia 25701, USA
| | - Julian J -L Chen
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Milardi G, Di Lorenzo B, Gerosa J, Barzaghi F, Di Matteo G, Omrani M, Jofra T, Merelli I, Barcella M, Filippini M, Conti A, Ferrua F, Pozzo Giuffrida F, Dionisio F, Rovere‐Querini P, Marktel S, Assanelli A, Piemontese S, Brigida I, Zoccolillo M, Cirillo E, Giardino G, Danieli MG, Specchia F, Pacillo L, Di Cesare S, Giancotta C, Romano F, Matarese A, Chetta AA, Trimarchi M, Laurenzi A, De Pellegrin M, Darin S, Montin D, Marinoni M, Dellepiane RM, Sordi V, Lougaris V, Vacca A, Melzi R, Nano R, Azzari C, Bongiovanni L, Pignata C, Cancrini C, Plebani A, Piemonti L, Petrovas C, Di Micco R, Ponzoni M, Aiuti A, Cicalese MP, Fousteri G. Follicular helper T cell signature of replicative exhaustion, apoptosis, and senescence in common variable immunodeficiency. Eur J Immunol 2022; 52:1171-1189. [PMID: 35562849 PMCID: PMC9542315 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most frequent primary antibody deficiency whereby follicular helper T (Tfh) cells fail to establish productive responses with B cells in germinal centers. Here, we analyzed the frequency, phenotype, transcriptome, and function of circulating Tfh (cTfh) cells in CVID patients displaying autoimmunity as an additional phenotype. A group of patients showed a high frequency of cTfh1 cells and a prominent expression of PD-1 and ICOS as well as a cTfh mRNA signature consistent with highly activated, but exhausted, senescent, and apoptotic cells. Plasmatic CXCL13 levels were elevated in this group and positively correlated with cTfh1 cell frequency and PD-1 levels. Monoallelic variants in RTEL1, a telomere length- and DNA repair-related gene, were identified in four patients belonging to this group. Their blood lymphocytes showed shortened telomeres, while their cTfh were more prone to apoptosis. These data point toward a novel pathogenetic mechanism in CVID, whereby alterations in DNA repair and telomere elongation might predispose to antibody deficiency. A Th1, highly activated but exhausted and apoptotic cTfh phenotype was associated with this form of CVID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Milardi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Biagio Di Lorenzo
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Jolanda Gerosa
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Federica Barzaghi
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Gigliola Di Matteo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor VergataVia Cracovia 50Rome00133Italy
- Immune and Infectious Diseases Division, Research Unit of Primary Immunodeficiencies, Academic Department of PediatricsBambino Gesù Children's HospitalIRCCSPiazza di Sant'Onofrio 4Rome00165Italy
| | - Maryam Omrani
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Department of Computer Science, Systems and Communication, University of Milano‐BicoccaPiazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1Milan20126Italy
| | - Tatiana Jofra
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Ivan Merelli
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Department of BioinformaticsInstitute for Biomedical TechnologiesNational Research CouncilVia Fratelli Cervi 93Segrate20090Italy
| | - Matteo Barcella
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Matteo Filippini
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Anastasia Conti
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Francesca Ferrua
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Francesco Pozzo Giuffrida
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Francesca Dionisio
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Patrizia Rovere‐Querini
- Department of ImmunologyTransplantation and Infectious DiseasesIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Sarah Marktel
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Andrea Assanelli
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Simona Piemontese
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Immacolata Brigida
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Matteo Zoccolillo
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Emilia Cirillo
- Department of Translational Medical SciencesSection of PediatricsFederico II University of NaplesCorso Umberto I, 40, 80138Italy
| | - Giuliana Giardino
- Department of Translational Medical SciencesSection of PediatricsFederico II University of NaplesCorso Umberto I, 40, 80138Italy
| | - Maria Giovanna Danieli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular SciencesMarche Polytechnic University of AnconaClinica MedicaVia Tronto 10/aAncona60126Italy
| | - Fernando Specchia
- Department of PediatricsS. Orsola‐Malpighi HospitalUniversity of BolognaVia Giuseppe Massarenti 9Bologna40138Italy
| | - Lucia Pacillo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor VergataVia Cracovia 50Rome00133Italy
- Immune and Infectious Diseases Division, Research Unit of Primary Immunodeficiencies, Academic Department of PediatricsBambino Gesù Children's HospitalIRCCSPiazza di Sant'Onofrio 4Rome00165Italy
| | - Silvia Di Cesare
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor VergataVia Cracovia 50Rome00133Italy
- Immune and Infectious Diseases Division, Research Unit of Primary Immunodeficiencies, Academic Department of PediatricsBambino Gesù Children's HospitalIRCCSPiazza di Sant'Onofrio 4Rome00165Italy
| | - Carmela Giancotta
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor VergataVia Cracovia 50Rome00133Italy
- Immune and Infectious Diseases Division, Research Unit of Primary Immunodeficiencies, Academic Department of PediatricsBambino Gesù Children's HospitalIRCCSPiazza di Sant'Onofrio 4Rome00165Italy
| | - Francesca Romano
- Pediatric Immunology DivisionDepartment of PediatricsAnna Meyer Children's University HospitalViale Gaetano Pieraccini 24Florence50139Italy
| | - Alessandro Matarese
- Department of Respiratory MedicineSanti AntonioBiagio and Cesare Arrigo HospitalVia Venezia 16Alessandria15121Italy
| | - Alfredo Antonio Chetta
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryRespiratory Disease and Lung Function UnitUniversity of ParmaStr. dell'Università 12Parma43121Italy
| | - Matteo Trimarchi
- Otorhinolaryngology Unit, Head and Neck Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific InstituteVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathology UnitIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Andrea Laurenzi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Maurizio De Pellegrin
- Unit of Orthopaedics, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific InstituteVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Silvia Darin
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Davide Montin
- Department of Pediatrics and Public HealthRegina Margherita HospitalPiazza Polonia 94Turin10126Italy
| | - Maddalena Marinoni
- Pediatric UnitOspedale “F. Del Ponte”Via Filippo del Ponte 19Varese21100Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Dellepiane
- Department of PediatricsFondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore PoliclinicoUniversity of MilanVia Francesco Sforza 35Milan20122Italy
| | - Valeria Sordi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Vassilios Lougaris
- Department of Clinical and Experimental SciencesPediatrics Clinic and Institute for Molecular Medicine A. NocivelliUniversity of BresciaPiazza del Mercato 15Brescia25121Italy
| | - Angelo Vacca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human OncologyUniversity of Bari Medical SchoolPiazza Umberto I, 1Bari70121Italy
| | - Raffaella Melzi
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Rita Nano
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Chiara Azzari
- Pediatric Immunology DivisionDepartment of PediatricsAnna Meyer Children's University HospitalViale Gaetano Pieraccini 24Florence50139Italy
| | - Lucia Bongiovanni
- Pathology UnitIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Claudio Pignata
- Department of Translational Medical SciencesSection of PediatricsFederico II University of NaplesCorso Umberto I, 40, 80138Italy
| | - Caterina Cancrini
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor VergataVia Cracovia 50Rome00133Italy
- Immune and Infectious Diseases Division, Research Unit of Primary Immunodeficiencies, Academic Department of PediatricsBambino Gesù Children's HospitalIRCCSPiazza di Sant'Onofrio 4Rome00165Italy
| | - Alessandro Plebani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental SciencesPediatrics Clinic and Institute for Molecular Medicine A. NocivelliUniversity of BresciaPiazza del Mercato 15Brescia25121Italy
| | - Lorenzo Piemonti
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity Vita‐Salute San RaffaeleVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Constantinos Petrovas
- Tissue Analysis Core, Immunology LaboratoryVaccine Research CenterNational Institute of Allergy and Infectious DiseasesNational Institutes of Health9000 Rockville PikeBethesdaMD20892USA
| | - Raffaella Di Micco
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Maurilio Ponzoni
- Pathology UnitIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity Vita‐Salute San RaffaeleVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Alessandro Aiuti
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity Vita‐Salute San RaffaeleVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Maria Pia Cicalese
- Pediatric Immunohematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
- Pathogenesis and therapy of primary immunodeficiencies UnitSan Raffaele Telethon Institute for Gene TherapySr‐TIGETIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| | - Georgia Fousteri
- Division of Immunology, Transplantation, and Infectious DiseasesDiabetes Research InstituteIRCCS San Raffaele HospitalVia Olgettina 60Milan20132Italy
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Al-Hinai A, Al-Hashmi S, Ganesh A, Al-Hashmi N, Al-Saegh A, Al-Mamari W, Al-Murshedi F, Al-Thihli K, Al-Kindi A, Al-Maawali A. Further phenotypic delineation of Alazami syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2022; 188:2485-2490. [PMID: 35567578 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Alazami syndrome (AS) is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by the cardinal features of severe growth restriction, moderate to severe intellectual disability, and distinctive facial features. Biallelic pathogenic variants of the LARP7, encoding a chaperone of 7SK noncoding RNA, is implicated in this disease. There are <35 reported cases in the literature. All reported cases share the same three cardinal features of the syndrome. Herein, we report on 12 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of AS from eight unrelated families. The cohort shares the same key feature of the syndrome. Moreover, we report additional phenotypic features, including genito-renal anomalies, ophthalmological abnormalities, and congenital heart disease. Whole-exome sequencing was used in all reported cases, implicating a clinical under-recognition of the syndrome. This report further expands the clinical and molecular characteristics of Alazami syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulhamid Al-Hinai
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Samiya Al-Hashmi
- Department of Pediatrics, Royal Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Anuradha Ganesh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Ocular Genetics Unit, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Nadia Al-Hashmi
- Department of Pediatrics, Royal Hospital, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Abeer Al-Saegh
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Watfa Al-Mamari
- Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Fathiya Al-Murshedi
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Khalid Al-Thihli
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Adila Al-Kindi
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Almundher Al-Maawali
- Department of Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Genetic and Developmental Medicine Clinic, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Amin Guldmann S, Byrjalsen A, Shaker S, Elberling J. A New Pathogenic Variant of the RTEL1 Gene and Dyskeratosis Congenita: A Dermatological View. Acta Derm Venereol 2022; 102:adv00710. [PMID: 35199181 DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v102.919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract is missing (Short communication)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Amin Guldmann
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Gentofte Hospitalsvej 1, DK-2900 Hellerup, Denmark.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Functional interaction between compound heterozygous TERT mutations causes severe telomere biology disorder. Blood Adv 2022; 6:3779-3791. [PMID: 35477117 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2022007029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) are a spectrum of multisystem inherited disorders characterized by bone marrow failure, resulting from mutations in genes encoding telomerase or other proteins involved in maintaining telomere length and integrity. Pathogenicity of variants in these genes can be hard to evaluate, since TBD mutations show highly variable penetrance and genetic anticipation due to inheritance of shorter telomeres with each generation. Thus, detailed functional analysis of newly identified variants is often essential. Here we describe a patient with compound heterozygous variants in the TERT gene, which encodes the catalytic subunit of telomerase, hTERT; this patient has the extremely severe Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson form of TBD, although his heterozygous parents are clinically unaffected. Molecular dynamic modeling and detailed biochemical analyses demonstrate that 1 allele (L557P) affects association of hTERT with its cognate RNA component hTR, while the other (K1050E) affects the binding of telomerase to its DNA substrate and enzyme processivity. Unexpectedly, the data demonstrate a functional interaction between the proteins encoded by the 2 alleles, with WT hTERT able to rescue the effect of K1050E on processivity, whereas L557P hTERT cannot. These data contribute to the mechanistic understanding of telomerase, indicating that RNA binding in 1 hTERT molecule affects the processivity of telomere addition by the other molecule. This work emphasizes the importance of functional characterization of TERT variants to reach a definitive molecular diagnosis for TBD patients, and in particular it illustrates the importance of analyzing the effects of compound heterozygous variants in combination to reveal interallelic effects.
Collapse
|
32
|
Vagher J, Gammon A, Kohlmann W, Jeter J. Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers and Other Cutaneous Manifestations in Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes and Rare DNA Repair Disorders. Front Oncol 2022; 12:837059. [PMID: 35359366 PMCID: PMC8960432 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.837059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although most non-melanoma skin cancers are felt to be sporadic in origin, these tumors do play a role in several cancer predisposition syndromes. The manifestations of skin cancers in these hereditary populations can include diagnosis at extremely early ages and/or multiple primary cancers, as well as tumors at less common sites. Awareness of baseline skin cancer risks for these individuals is important, particularly in the setting of treatments that may compromise the immune system and further increase risk of cutaneous malignancies. Additionally, diagnosis of these disorders and management of non-cutaneous manifestations of these diseases have profound implications for both the patient and their family. This review highlights the current literature on the diagnosis, features, and non-melanoma skin cancer risks associated with lesser-known cancer predisposition syndromes, including bone marrow failure disorders, genomic instability disorders, and base excision repair disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Vagher
- Family Cancer Assessment Clinic, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Amanda Gammon
- Family Cancer Assessment Clinic, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Wendy Kohlmann
- Family Cancer Assessment Clinic, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Joanne Jeter
- Family Cancer Assessment Clinic, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Multisystemic Manifestations in Rare Diseases: The Experience of Dyskeratosis Congenita. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13030496. [PMID: 35328050 PMCID: PMC8953471 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyskeratosis congenital (DC) is the first genetic syndrome described among telomeropathies. Its classical phenotype is characterized by the mucocutaneous triad of reticulated pigmentation of skin lace, nail dystrophy and oral leukoplakia. The clinical presentation, however, is heterogeneous and serious clinical complications include bone marrow failure, hematological and solid tumors. It may also involve immunodeficiencies, dental, pulmonary and liver disorders, and other minor complication. Dyskeratosis congenita shows marked genetic heterogeneity, as at least 14 genes are responsible for the shortening of telomeres characteristic of this disease. This review discusses clinical characteristics, molecular genetics, disease evolution, available therapeutic options and differential diagnosis of dyskeratosis congenita to provide an interdisciplinary and personalized medical assessment that includes family genetic counseling.
Collapse
|
34
|
Telomere biology disorders gain a family member. Blood 2022; 139:957-959. [PMID: 35175322 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2021014533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
|
35
|
Debbarma S, Acharya PC. Targeting G-Quadruplex Dna For Cancer Chemotherapy. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2022; 19:e140222201110. [PMID: 35156574 DOI: 10.2174/1570163819666220214115408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The self-association of DNA formed by Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding comprises several layers of four guanine or G-tetrads or G4s. The distinct feature of G4s, such as the G-tetrads and loops, qualify structure-selective recognition by small molecules and various ligands and can act as potential anticancer therapeutic molecules. The G4 selective-ligands, can influence gene expression by targeting a nucleic acid structure rather than sequence. Telomere G4 can be targeted for cancer treatment by small molecules inhibiting the telomerase activity whereas c-MYC is capable of controlling transcription, can be targeted to influence transcription. The k-RAS is one of the most frequently encountered oncogenic driver mutations in pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers. The k-RAS oncogene plays important role in acquiring and increasing the drug resistance and can also be directly targeted by small molecules to combat k-RAS mutant tumors. Modular G4 ligands with different functional groups, side chains and rotatable bonds as well as conformation affect the binding affinity/selectivity in cancer chemotherapeutic interventions. These modular G4 ligands act by targeting the diversity of G4 loops and groves and assists to develop more drug-like compounds with selectivity. In this review, we present the recent research on synthetic G4 DNA-interacting ligands as an approach toward the discovery of target specific anticancer chemotherapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumanta Debbarma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar-799022, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Guzonjić A, Sopić M, Ostanek B, Kotur-Stevuljević J. Telomere length as a biomarker of aging and diseases. ARHIV ZA FARMACIJU 2022. [DOI: 10.5937/arhfarm72-36376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
As research related to healthspan and lifespan has become a hot topic, the necessity for a reliable and practical biomarker of aging (BoA), which can provide information about mortality and morbidity risk, along with remaining life expectancy, has increased. The chromosome terminus non-coding protective structure that prevents genomic instability is called a telomere. The continual shortening of telomeres, which affects their structure as well as function, is a hallmark of agedness. The aforementioned process is a potential cause of age-related diseases (ARDs), leading to a bad prognosis and a low survival rate, which compromise health and longevity. Hence, studies scrutinizing the BoAs often include telomere length (TL) as a prospective candidate. The results of these studies suggest that TL measurement can only provide an approximate appraisal of the aging rate, and its implementation into clinical practice and routine use as a BoA has many limitations and challenges. Nevertheless, measuring TL while determining other biomarkers can be used to assess biological age. This review focuses on the importance of telomeres in health, senescence, and diseases, as well as on summarizing the results and conclusions of previous studies evaluating TL as a potential BoA.
Collapse
|
37
|
Thompson MB, Muldoon D, de Andrade KC, Giri N, Alter BP, Savage SA, Shamburek RD, Khincha PP. Lipoprotein particle alterations due to androgen therapy in individuals with dyskeratosis congenita. EBioMedicine 2021; 75:103760. [PMID: 34929494 PMCID: PMC8693311 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) is a telomere biology disorder associated with high rates of bone marrow failure (BMF) and other medical complications. Oral androgens are successfully used to treat BMF in DC but often have significant side effects, including elevation of serum lipids. This study sought to determine the extent to which oral androgen therapy altered lipid and lipoprotein levels. Methods Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to evaluate serum lipid profiles, and lipoprotein particle number and size in nine androgen-treated individuals with DC, 45 untreated individuals with DC, 72 unaffected relatives of DC patients, and 19 untreated individuals with a different inherited BMF syndrome, Fanconi anaemia (FA). Findings Androgen-treated individuals with DC had significantly decreased serum HDL cholesterol, HDL particle number and HDL particle size (p < 0·001, p < 0·001 and p < 0·001, respectively); significantly increased serum LDL cholesterol and LDL particle number (p < 0·001, p < 0·001, respectively), decreased apoA-I and increased apoB (p < 0⋅001, p < 0⋅05 respectively) when compared with untreated individuals with DC. There were no significant lipid profile differences between untreated DC and untreated FA participants; or between untreated DC participants and their unaffected relatives. Branched chain amino acids and lipoprotein insulin resistance were not significantly different with androgen treatment. GlycA, an inflammatory acute phase reactant, was significantly increased with androgen treatment (p < 0⋅001). Interpretation Androgen treatment in DC creates an atherogenic lipoprotein profile, raising concern for the potential of elevated cardiovascular disease risk. Clinical guidelines for individuals on androgens for DC-related BMF should include cardiovascular disease monitoring. These findings could be relevant in individuals treated with androgen for other indications. Funding Intramural research programs of the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics of the National Cancer Institute and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mone't B Thompson
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Muldoon
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kelvin C de Andrade
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Neelam Giri
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Blanche P Alter
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sharon A Savage
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Robert D Shamburek
- Lipid Service, Cardiovascular Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Payal P Khincha
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer and Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Genome-wide whole-blood transcriptome profiling across inherited bone marrow failure subtypes. Blood Adv 2021; 5:5360-5371. [PMID: 34625797 PMCID: PMC9153011 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2021005360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene expression profiling has long been used in understanding the contribution of genes and related pathways in disease pathogenesis and susceptibility. We have performed whole-blood transcriptomic profiling in a subset of patients with inherited bone marrow failure (IBMF) whose diseases are clinically and genetically characterized as Fanconi anemia (FA), Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS), and dyskeratosis congenita (DC). We hypothesized that annotating whole-blood transcripts genome wide will aid in understanding the complexity of gene regulation across these IBMF subtypes. Initial analysis of these blood-derived transcriptomes revealed significant skewing toward upregulated genes in patients with FA when compared with controls. Patients with SDS or DC also showed similar skewing profiles in their transcriptional status revealing a common pattern across these different IBMF subtypes. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed shared pathways involved in protein translation and elongation (ribosome constituents), RNA metabolism (nonsense-mediated decay), and mitochondrial function (electron transport chain). We further identified a discovery set of 26 upregulated genes at stringent cutoff (false discovery rate < 0.05) that appeared as a unified signature across the IBMF subtypes. Subsequent transcriptomic analysis on genetically uncharacterized patients with BMF revealed a striking overlap of genes, including 22 from the discovery set, which indicates a unified transcriptional drive across the classic (FA, SDS, and DC) and uncharacterized BMF subtypes. This study has relevance in disease pathogenesis, for example, in explaining the features (including the BMF) common to all patients with IBMF and suggests harnessing this transcriptional signature for patient benefit.
Collapse
|
39
|
Çepni E, Satkın NB, Moheb LA, Rocha ME, Kayserili H. Biallelic TERT variant leads to Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome with additional dyskeratosis congenita findings. Am J Med Genet A 2021; 188:1226-1232. [PMID: 34890115 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.62602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Short telomere syndromes constitute a heterogeneous group of clinical conditions characterized by short telomeres and impaired telomerase activity due to pathogenic variants in the essential telomerase components. Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) is a rare, multisystemic telomere biology disorder characterized by abnormal skin pigmentation, oral leukoplakia and nail dysplasia along with various somatic findings. Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome (HHS) is generally an autosomal recessively inherited subgroup showing growth retardation, microcephaly, cerebellar hypoplasia and severe immunodeficiency. We here report on a consanguineous family from Turkey, in which a missense variant in the reverse transcriptase domain of the TERT gene segregated with short telomere lengths and was associated with full-blown short telomere syndrome phenotype in the index; and heterogeneous adult-onset manifestations in heterozygous individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ece Çepni
- Institute of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nihan Bilge Satkın
- Genetic Diseases Evaluation Center, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | | | - Hülya Kayserili
- Institute of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Genetic Diseases Evaluation Center, Koç University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.,Medical Genetics Department, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang K, Xu L, Cong YS. Telomere Dysfunction in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:739810. [PMID: 34859008 PMCID: PMC8631932 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.739810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an age-dependent progressive and fatal lung disease of unknown etiology, which is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix inside the interstitial layer of the lung parenchyma that leads to abnormal scar architecture and compromised lung function capacity. Recent genetic studies have attributed the pathological genes or genetic mutations associated with familial idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and sporadic IPF to telomere-related components, suggesting that telomere dysfunction is an important determinant of this disease. In this study, we summarized recent advances in our understanding of how telomere dysfunction drives IPF genesis. We highlighted the key role of alveolar stem cell dysfunction caused by telomere shortening or telomere uncapping, which bridged the gap between telomere abnormalities and fibrotic lung pathology. We emphasized that senescence-associated secretory phenotypes, innate immune cell infiltration, and/or inflammation downstream of lung stem cell dysfunction influenced the native microenvironment and local cell signals, including increased transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling in the lung, to induce pro-fibrotic conditions. In addition, the failed regeneration of new alveoli due to alveolar stem cell dysfunction might expose lung cells to elevated mechanical tension, which could activate the TGF-β signaling loop to promote the fibrotic process, especially in a periphery-to-center pattern as seen in IPF patients. Understanding the telomere-related molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms of IPF would provide new insights into IPF etiology and therapeutic strategies for this fatal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kexiong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Sheng Cong
- Key Laboratory of Aging and Cancer Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Tacheva T, Zienolddiny S, Dimov D, Vlaykova D, Vlaykova T. The leukocyte telomere length, single nucleotide polymorphisms near TERC gene and risk of COPD. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12190. [PMID: 34824901 PMCID: PMC8590800 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by irreversible airflow obstruction and is associated with chronic local and systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. The enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation have been reported to affect telomere length (TL). Furthermore, a number of SNPs at loci encoding the main components of the telomerase genes, TERT and TERC have been shown to correlate with TL. We aimed to explore the leukocyte TL and genotypes for single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs12696304 (C > G) and rs10936599 (C > T) near TERC in COPD cases and matched healthy controls using q-PCR technologies. Successful assessment of TL was performed for 91 patients and 88 controls. The patients had shorter TL (17919.36 ± 1203.01 bp) compared to controls (21 271.48 ± 1891.36 bp) although not significant (p = 0.137). The TL did not associate with the gender, age, spirometric indexes, smoking habits but tended to correlate negatively with BMI (Rho = − 0.215, p = 0.076) in the controls, but not in COPD patients. The genotype frequencies of the SNPs rs12696304 and rs10936599 were compared between patients and controls and the odds ratios (OR) for developing COPD were calculated. The carriers of the common homozygous (CC) genotypes of the SNPs had higher risk for COPD, compared to carriers of the variants alleles (rs12696304 CG+GG vs. CC; OR: 0.615, 95% CI [0.424–0.894], p = 0.011 and for rs10936599 CT+TT vs. CC OR = 0.668, 95% CI [0.457–0.976], p = 0.044). Analysis on the combined effects of the TERCrs12696304 (C > G) and rs10936599 (C > T) genotypes, CC/CC genotype combination was associated with higher risk for COPD (p < 0.0001) and marginally lower FEV1% pr. in patients with GOLD II (p = 0.052). There was no association between the SNP genotypes and TL. In summary, our results suggest that COPD patients may have shorter TL, and rs12696304 and rs10936599 near TERC may affect the risk of COPD independently of TL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Tacheva
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Shanbeh Zienolddiny
- Section for Toxicology and Biological Work Environment, National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dimo Dimov
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Denitsa Vlaykova
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Tatyana Vlaykova
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University - Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Galati A, Scatolini L, Micheli E, Bavasso F, Cicconi A, Maccallini P, Chen L, Roake CM, Schoeftner S, Artandi SE, Gatti M, Cacchione S, Raffa GD. The S-adenosylmethionine analog sinefungin inhibits the trimethylguanosine synthase TGS1 to promote telomerase activity and telomere lengthening. FEBS Lett 2021; 596:42-52. [PMID: 34817067 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in many genes that control the expression, the function, or the stability of telomerase cause telomere biology disorders (TBDs), such as dyskeratosis congenita, pulmonary fibrosis, and aplastic anemia. Mutations in a subset of the genes associated with TBDs cause reductions of the telomerase RNA moiety hTR, thus limiting telomerase activity. We have recently found that loss of the trimethylguanosine synthase TGS1 increases both hTR abundance and telomerase activity and leads to telomere elongation. Here, we show that treatment with the S-adenosylmethionine analog sinefungin inhibits TGS1 activity, increases the hTR levels, and promotes telomere lengthening in different cell types. Our results hold promise for restoring telomere length in stem and progenitor cells from TBD patients with reduced hTR levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Galati
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Livia Scatolini
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Emanuela Micheli
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Francesca Bavasso
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cicconi
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Paolo Maccallini
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Lu Chen
- Cancer Signaling and Epigenetics Program-Cancer Epigenetics Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Caitlin M Roake
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Stefan Schoeftner
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli studi di Trieste, Italy
| | - Steven E Artandi
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Maurizio Gatti
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy.,Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari del CNR, Roma, Italy
| | - Stefano Cacchione
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| | - Grazia D Raffa
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Stock AJ, Liu Y. NAD-Linked Metabolism and Intervention in Short Telomere Syndromes and Murine Models of Telomere Dysfunction. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2021; 2:785171. [PMID: 35822010 PMCID: PMC9261345 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2021.785171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein structures that form protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. Short telomeres are a hallmark of aging and a principal defining feature of short telomere syndromes, including dyskeratosis congenita (DC). Emerging evidence suggests a crucial role for critically short telomere-induced DNA damage signaling and mitochondrial dysfunction in cellular dysfunction in DC. A prominent factor linking nuclear DNA damage and mitochondrial homeostasis is the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) metabolite. Recent studies have demonstrated that patients with DC and murine models with critically short telomeres exhibit lower NAD levels, and an imbalance in the NAD metabolome, including elevated CD38 NADase and reduced poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase and SIRT1 activities. CD38 inhibition and/or supplementation with NAD precursors reequilibrate imbalanced NAD metabolism and alleviate mitochondrial impairment, telomere DNA damage, telomere dysfunction-induced DNA damage signaling, and cellular growth retardation in primary fibroblasts derived from DC patients. Boosting NAD levels also ameliorate chemical-induced liver fibrosis in murine models of telomere dysfunction. These findings underscore the relevance of NAD dysregulation to telomeropathies and demonstrate how NAD interventions may prove to be effective in combating cellular and organismal defects that occur in short telomere syndromes.
Collapse
|
44
|
Salehian S, Semple T, Pabary R. Childhood interstitial lung disease: short lessons from telomeres. Thorax 2021; 76:1250-1252. [PMID: 34446526 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2021-217479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sormeh Salehian
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tom Semple
- Department of Paediatric Radiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| | - Rishi Pabary
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK .,Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Vessoni AT, Zhang T, Quinet A, Jeong HC, Munroe M, Wood M, Tedone E, Vindigni A, Shay JW, Greenberg RA, Batista LF. Telomere erosion in human pluripotent stem cells leads to ATR-mediated mitotic catastrophe. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:211982. [PMID: 33851958 PMCID: PMC8050844 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202011014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that short telomeres activate an ATM-driven DNA damage response that leads to senescence in terminally differentiated cells. However, technical limitations have hampered our understanding of how telomere shortening is signaled in human stem cells. Here, we show that telomere attrition induces ssDNA accumulation (G-strand) at telomeres in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), but not in their differentiated progeny. This led to a unique role for ATR in the response of hPSCs to telomere shortening that culminated in an extended S/G2 cell cycle phase and a longer period of mitosis, which was associated with aneuploidy and mitotic catastrophe. Loss of p53 increased resistance to death, at the expense of increased mitotic abnormalities in hPSCs. Taken together, our data reveal an unexpected dominant role of ATR in hPSCs, combined with unique cell cycle abnormalities and, ultimately, consequences distinct from those observed in their isogenic differentiated counterparts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tianpeng Zhang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Penn Center for Genome Integrity, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Annabel Quinet
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Ho-Chang Jeong
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Michael Munroe
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Matthew Wood
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
| | - Enzo Tedone
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | | | - Jerry W. Shay
- Department of Cell Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Roger A. Greenberg
- Department of Cancer Biology, Penn Center for Genome Integrity, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Luis F.Z. Batista
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
- Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
- Correspondence to Luis F.Z. Batista:
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Telomere biology disorders (TBD) are a heterogeneous group of diseases arising from germline mutations affecting genes involved in telomere maintenance. Telomeres are DNA-protein structures at chromosome ends that maintain chromosome stability; their length affects cell replicative potential and senescence. A constellation of bone marrow failure, pulmonary fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and premature greying is suggestive, however incomplete penetrance results in highly variable manifestations, with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis as the most common presentation. Currently, the true extent of TBD burden is unknown as there is no established diagnostic criteria and the disorder often is unrecognised and underdiagnosed. There is no gold standard for measuring telomere length and not all TBD-related mutations have been identified. There is no specific cure and the only treatment is organ transplantation, which has poor outcomes. This review summarises the current literature and discusses gaps in understanding and areas of need in managing TBD.
Collapse
|
47
|
Giri N, Alter BP, Savage SA, Stratton P. Gynaecological and reproductive health of women with telomere biology disorders. Br J Haematol 2021; 193:1238-1246. [PMID: 34019708 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive health may be adversely impacted in women with dyskeratosis congenita (DC) and related telomere biology disorders (TBD). We evaluated gynaecological problems, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes in 39 females aged 10-81 years who were followed longitudinally in our DC/TBD cohort. Twenty-six had bone marrow failure and 12 underwent haematopoietic cell transplantation. All attained menarche at a normal age. Thirteen women reported menorrhagia; ten used hormonal contraception to reduce bleeding. Nine experienced natural normal-aged menopause. Gynaecological problems (endometriosis = 3, pelvic varicosities = 1, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia = 1, and uterine prolapse = 2) resulted in surgical menopause in seven. Twenty-five of 26 women attempting fertility carried 80 pregnancies with 49 (61%) resulting in livebirths. Ten (38%) women experienced 28 (35%) miscarriages, notably recurrent pregnancy loss in five (19%). Preeclampsia (n = 6, 24%) and progressive cytopenias (n = 10, 40%) resulted in maternal-fetal compromise, including preterm (n = 5) and caesarean deliveries (n = 18, 37%). Gynaecological/reproductive problems were noted mainly in women with autosomal-dominant inheritance; others were still young or died early. Although women with TBDs had normal menarche, fertility, and menopause, gynaecological problems and pregnancy complications leading to caesarean section, preterm delivery, or transfusion support were frequent. Women with TBDs will benefit from multidisciplinary, coordinated care by haematology, gynaecology and maternal-fetal medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Giri
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Blanche P Alter
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Sharon A Savage
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Pamela Stratton
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
RTEL1 influences the abundance and localization of TERRA RNA. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3016. [PMID: 34021146 PMCID: PMC8140157 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23299-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere repeat containing RNAs (TERRAs) are a family of long non-coding RNAs transcribed from the subtelomeric regions of eukaryotic chromosomes. TERRA transcripts can form R-loops at chromosome ends; however the importance of these structures or the regulation of TERRA expression and retention in telomeric R-loops remain unclear. Here, we show that the RTEL1 (Regulator of Telomere Length 1) helicase influences the abundance and localization of TERRA in human cells. Depletion of RTEL1 leads to increased levels of TERRA RNA while reducing TERRA-containing R loops at telomeres. In vitro, RTEL1 shows a strong preference for binding G-quadruplex structures which form in TERRA. This binding is mediated by the C-terminal region of RTEL1, and is independent of the RTEL1 helicase domain. RTEL1 binding to TERRA appears to be essential for cell viability, underscoring the importance of this function. Degradation of TERRA-containing R-loops by overexpression of RNAse H1 partially recapitulates the increased TERRA levels and telomeric instability associated with RTEL1 deficiency. Collectively, these data suggest that regulation of TERRA is a key function of the RTEL1 helicase, and that loss of that function may contribute to the disease phenotypes of patients with RTEL1 mutations. Long non coding RNA TERRA transcripts can form R-loops at chromosome ends. Here, the authors reveal a role for the helicase RTEL in affecting TERRA levels and localization.
Collapse
|
49
|
Telomere biology disorder prevalence and phenotypes in adults with familial hematologic and/or pulmonary presentations. Blood Adv 2021; 4:4873-4886. [PMID: 33035329 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020001721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) present heterogeneously, ranging from infantile bone marrow failure associated with very short telomeres to adult-onset interstitial lung disease (ILD) with normal telomere length. Yield of genetic testing and phenotypic spectra for TBDs caused by the expanding list of telomere genes in adults remain understudied. Thus, we screened adults aged ≥18 years with a personal and/or family history clustering hematologic disorders and/or ILD enrolled on The University of Chicago Inherited Hematologic Disorders Registry for causative variants in 13 TBD genes. Sixteen (10%) of 153 probands carried causative variants distributed among TERT (n = 6), TERC (n = 4), PARN (n = 5), or RTEL1 (n = 1), of which 19% were copy number variants. The highest yield (9 of 22 [41%]) was in families with mixed hematologic and ILD presentations, suggesting that ILD in hematology populations and hematologic abnormalities in ILD populations warrant TBD genetic testing. Four (3%) of 117 familial hematologic disorder families without ILD carried TBD variants, making TBD second to only DDX41 in frequency for genetic diagnoses in this population. Phenotypes of 17 carriers with heterozygous PARN variants included 4 (24%) with hematologic abnormalities, 67% with lymphocyte telomere lengths measured by flow cytometry and fluorescence in situ hybridization at or above the 10th percentile, and a high penetrance for ILD. Alternative etiologies for cytopenias and/or ILD such as autoimmune features were noted in multiple TBD families, emphasizing the need to maintain clinical suspicion for a TBD despite the presence of alternative explanations.
Collapse
|
50
|
Telomeres in Interstitial Lung Disease. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10071384. [PMID: 33808277 PMCID: PMC8037770 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10071384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Interstitial lung diseases (ILD) encompass a group of conditions involving fibrosis and/or inflammation of the pulmonary parenchyma. Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences at chromosome ends which protect against genome instability. At each cell division, telomeres shorten, but the telomerase complex partially counteracts progressive loss of telomeres by catalysing the synthesis of telomeric repeats. Once critical telomere shortening is reached, cell cycle arrest or apoptosis are triggered. Telomeres progressively shorten with age. A number of rare genetic mutations have been identified in genes encoding for components of the telomerase complex, including telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) and telomerase RNA component (TERC), in familial and, less frequently, in sporadic fibrotic ILDs. Defects in telomerase result in extremely short telomeres. More rapidly progressive disease is observed in fibrotic ILD patients with telomere gene mutations, regardless of underlying diagnosis. Associations with common single nucleotide polymorphisms in telomere related genes have also been demonstrated for various ILDs. Shorter peripheral blood telomere lengths compared to age-matched healthy individuals are found in a proportion of patients with fibrotic ILDs, and in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) have been linked to worse survival, independently of disease severity. Greater susceptibility to immunosuppressant-induced side effects in patients with short telomeres has been described in patients with IPF and with fibrotic HP. Here, we discuss recent evidence for the involvement of telomere length and genetic variations in the development, progression, and treatment of fibrotic ILDs.
Collapse
|