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Fenner BJ, Whitmore SS, DeLuca AP, Andorf JL, Daggett HT, Luse MA, Haefeli LM, Riley JB, Critser DB, Wilkinson ME, Dumitrescu AV, Drack AV, Boyce TM, Russell JF, Binkley EM, Sohn EH, Russell SR, Boldt HC, Mullins RF, Tucker BA, Scheetz TE, Han IC, Stone EM. A Retrospective Longitudinal Study of 460 Patients with ABCA4-Associated Retinal Disease. Ophthalmology 2024; 131:985-997. [PMID: 38309476 PMCID: PMC11398085 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2024.01.035] [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: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the distribution of genotypes and natural history of ABCA4-associated retinal disease in a large cohort of patients seen at a single institution. DESIGN Retrospective, single-institution cohort review. PARTICIPANTS Patients seen at the University of Iowa between November 1986 and August 2022 clinically suspected to have disease caused by sequence variations in ABCA4. METHODS DNA samples from participants were subjected to a tiered testing strategy progressing from allele-specific screening to whole genome sequencing. Charts were reviewed, and clinical data were tabulated. The pathogenic severity of the most common alleles was estimated by studying groups of patients who shared 1 allele. Groups of patients with shared genotypes were reviewed for evidence of modifying factor effects. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Age at first uncorrectable vision loss, best-corrected visual acuity, and the area of the I2e isopter of the Goldmann visual field. RESULTS A total of 460 patients from 390 families demonstrated convincing clinical features of ABCA4-associated retinal disease. Complete genotypes were identified in 399 patients, and partial genotypes were identified in 61. The median age at first vision loss was 16 years (range, 4-76 years). Two hundred sixty-five families (68%) harbored a unique genotype, and no more than 10 patients shared any single genotype. Review of the patients with shared genotypes revealed evidence of modifying factors that in several cases resulted in a > 15-year difference in age at first vision loss. Two hundred forty-one different alleles were identified among the members of this cohort, and 161 of these (67%) were found in only a single individual. CONCLUSIONS ABCA4-associated retinal disease ranges from a very severe photoreceptor disease with an onset before 5 years of age to a late-onset retinal pigment epithelium-based condition resembling pattern dystrophy. Modifying factors frequently impact the ABCA4 disease phenotype to a degree that is similar in magnitude to the detectable ABCA4 alleles themselves. It is likely that most patients in any cohort will harbor a unique genotype. The latter observations taken together suggest that patients' clinical findings in most cases will be more useful for predicting their clinical course than their genotype. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beau J Fenner
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Singapore National Eye Centre; Singapore Eye Research Institute; and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Academic Clinical Programme, SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - S Scott Whitmore
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Adam P DeLuca
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Jean L Andorf
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Heather T Daggett
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Meagan A Luse
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Lorena M Haefeli
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Janet B Riley
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Douglas B Critser
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Mark E Wilkinson
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Alina V Dumitrescu
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Arlene V Drack
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Timothy M Boyce
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Jonathan F Russell
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Elaine M Binkley
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Elliott H Sohn
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Stephen R Russell
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - H Culver Boldt
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Robert F Mullins
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Budd A Tucker
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Todd E Scheetz
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Ian C Han
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Edwin M Stone
- The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa.
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Esteve-Garcia A, Cobos E, Sau C, Padró-Miquel A, Català-Mora J, Barberán-Martínez P, Millán JM, García-García G, Aguilera C. Deciphering complexity: TULP1 variants linked to an atypical retinal dystrophy phenotype. Front Genet 2024; 15:1352063. [PMID: 38450199 PMCID: PMC10915255 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1352063] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: TULP1 exemplifies the remarkable clinical and genetic heterogeneity observed in inherited retinal dystrophies. Our research describes the clinical and molecular characteristics of a patient manifesting an atypical retinal dystrophy pattern, marked by the identification of both a previously unreported and a rarely encountered TULP1 variant. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify potential causative variants. The pathogenicity of the identified TULP1 variants was evaluated through in silico predictors and a minigene splice assay, specifically designed to assess the effect of the unreported TULP1 variant. Results: We identified two TULP1 gene variants in a patient exhibiting unusual and symmetrical alterations in both retinas, characterized by an increase in autofluorescence along the distribution of retinal vessels. These variants included a known rare missense variant, c.1376T>C, and a novel splice site variant, c.822G>T. For the latter variant (c.822G>T), we conducted a minigene splice assay that demonstrated the incorporation of a premature stop codon. This finding suggests a likely activation of the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay mechanism, ultimately resulting in the absence of protein production from this allele. Segregation analysis confirmed that these variants were in trans. Discussion: Our data support that individuals with biallelic TULP1 variants may present with a unique pattern of macular degeneration and periarteriolar vascular pigmentation. This study highlights the importance of further clinical and molecular characterization of TULP1 variants to elucidate genotype-phenotype correlations in the context of inherited retinal dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Esteve-Garcia
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Bellvitge University Hospital, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Estefania Cobos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bellvitge University Hospital, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Sau
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Bellvitge University Hospital, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ariadna Padró-Miquel
- Genetics Laboratory, Bellvitge University Hospital, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Català-Mora
- Department of Ophthalmology, SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Barberán-Martínez
- Molecular, Cellular, and Genomic Biomedicine Group, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Unit CIPF-IIS La Fe Molecular, Cellular and Genomic Biomedicine, Valencia, Spain
| | - José M. Millán
- Molecular, Cellular, and Genomic Biomedicine Group, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Unit CIPF-IIS La Fe Molecular, Cellular and Genomic Biomedicine, Valencia, Spain
- Center for Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
- University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Gema García-García
- Molecular, Cellular, and Genomic Biomedicine Group, Valencia, Spain
- Joint Unit CIPF-IIS La Fe Molecular, Cellular and Genomic Biomedicine, Valencia, Spain
- Center for Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cinthia Aguilera
- Genetics Laboratory, Bellvitge University Hospital, Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Hedberg-Buenz A, Meyer KJ, van der Heide CJ, Deng W, Lee K, Soukup DA, Kettelson M, Pellack D, Mercer H, Wang K, Garvin MK, Abramoff MD, Anderson MG. Biological Correlations and Confounders for Quantification of Retinal Ganglion Cells by Optical Coherence Tomography Based on Studies of Outbred Mice. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2022; 11:17. [PMID: 36135979 PMCID: PMC9513741 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.11.9.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Despite popularity of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in glaucoma studies, it's unclear how well OCT-derived metrics compare to traditional measures of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) abundance. Here, Diversity Outbred (J:DO) mice are used to directly compare ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness measured by OCT to metrics of retinal anatomy measured ex vivo with retinal wholemounts and optic nerve histology. Methods J:DO mice (n = 48) underwent fundoscopic and OCT examinations, with automated segmentation of GCC thickness. RGC axons were quantified from para-phenylenediamine-stained optic nerve cross-sections and somas from BRN3A-immunolabeled retinal wholemounts, with total inner retinal cellularity assessed by TO-PRO and subsequent hematoxylin staining. Results J:DO tissues lacked overt disease. GCC thickness, RGC abundance, and total cell abundance varied broadly across individuals. GCC thickness correlated significantly to RGC somal density (r = 0.58) and axon number (r = 0.44), but not total cell density. Retinal area and nerve cross-sectional area varied widely. No metrics were significantly influenced by sex. In bilateral comparisons, GCC thickness (r = 0.95), axon (r = 0.72), and total cell density (r = 0.47) correlated significantly within individuals. Conclusions Amongst outbred mice, OCT-derived measurements of GCC thickness correlate significantly to RGC somal and axon abundance. Factors limiting correlation are likely both biological and methodological, including differences in retinal area that distort sampling-based estimates of RGC abundance. Translational Relevance There are significant-but imperfect-correlations between GCC thickness and RGC abundance across genetic contexts in mice, highlighting valid uses and ongoing challenges for meaningful use of OCT-derived metrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Hedberg-Buenz
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kacie J. Meyer
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Carly J. van der Heide
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Wenxiang Deng
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kyungmoo Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Dana A. Soukup
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Monica Kettelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Danielle Pellack
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Hannah Mercer
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Mona K. Garvin
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Michael D. Abramoff
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Michael G. Anderson
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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4
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Weatherly SM, Collin GB, Charette JR, Stone L, Damkham N, Hyde LF, Peterson JG, Hicks W, Carter GW, Naggert JK, Krebs MP, Nishina PM. Identification of Arhgef12 and Prkci as genetic modifiers of retinal dysplasia in the Crb1rd8 mouse model. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1009798. [PMID: 35675330 PMCID: PMC9212170 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the apicobasal polarity gene CRB1 lead to diverse retinal diseases, such as Leber congenital amaurosis, cone-rod dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa (with and without Coats-like vasculopathy), foveal retinoschisis, macular dystrophy, and pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy. Limited correlation between disease phenotypes and CRB1 alleles, and evidence that patients sharing the same alleles often present with different disease features, suggest that genetic modifiers contribute to clinical variation. Similarly, the retinal phenotype of mice bearing the Crb1 retinal degeneration 8 (rd8) allele varies with genetic background. Here, we initiated a sensitized chemical mutagenesis screen in B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn, a strain with a mild clinical presentation, to identify genetic modifiers that cause a more severe disease phenotype. Two models from this screen, Tvrm266 and Tvrm323, exhibited increased retinal dysplasia. Genetic mapping with high-throughput exome and candidate-gene sequencing identified causative mutations in Arhgef12 and Prkci, respectively. Epistasis analysis of both strains indicated that the increased dysplastic phenotype required homozygosity of the Crb1rd8 allele. Retinal dysplastic lesions in Tvrm266 mice were smaller and caused less photoreceptor degeneration than those in Tvrm323 mice, which developed an early, large diffuse lesion phenotype. At one month of age, Müller glia and microglia mislocalization at dysplastic lesions in both modifier strains was similar to that in B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn mice but photoreceptor cell mislocalization was more extensive. External limiting membrane disruption was comparable in Tvrm266 and B6.Cg-Crb1rd8/Pjn mice but milder in Tvrm323 mice. Immunohistological analysis of mice at postnatal day 0 indicated a normal distribution of mitotic cells in Tvrm266 and Tvrm323 mice, suggesting normal early development. Aberrant electroretinography responses were observed in both models but functional decline was significant only in Tvrm323 mice. These results identify Arhgef12 and Prkci as modifier genes that differentially shape Crb1-associated retinal disease, which may be relevant to understanding clinical variability and underlying disease mechanisms in humans. Inherited eye diseases affect roughly 1:1,000 individuals worldwide. Although these diseases are often linked to variants of a single gene, it is increasingly recognized that a second variant in other genes may modify disease characteristics, including age of onset, severity, and lesion appearance. Identifying such modifier genes in humans is difficult. In this study, two modifiers of a gene associated with retinal damage leading to childhood blindness in humans (CRB1) were identified in mice. Retinal damage caused by Crb1 mutation alone was less severe than in the presence of Arhgef12 or Prkci mutations. Furthermore, the modifier gene mutations caused retinal damage only in the presence of the Crb1 mutation. Our results point to a role of mouse Crb1 and the modifying effects of Arhgef12 and Prkci in a biological network that controls adhesive interactions between cells. The variation in disease severity, lesion appearance, and visual responses in these mice provide a dramatic example of modifier gene influence. This work may lead to an improved understanding of the molecular basis of CRB1-associated retinal disease, with possible relevance to diagnostic and therapeutic intervention in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gayle B. Collin
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | - Lisa Stone
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | - Nattaya Damkham
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- Graduate Program in Immunology, Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Siriraj Center of Excellence for Stem Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lillian F. Hyde
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | - Wanda Hicks
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
| | | | | | - Mark P. Krebs
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPK); (PMN)
| | - Patsy M. Nishina
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MPK); (PMN)
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5
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Meyer KJ, Pellack D, Hedberg-Buenz A, Pomernackas N, Soukup D, Wang K, Fingert JH, Anderson MG. Recombinant adenovirus causes prolonged mobilization of macrophages in the anterior chambers of mice. Mol Vis 2021; 27:741-756. [PMID: 35136346 PMCID: PMC8763664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ocular tissues of mice have been studied in many ways using replication-deficient species C type 5 adenovirus (Ad5) as a tool for manipulating gene expression. Whereas refinements to injection protocols and tropism have led to several advances in targeting cells of interest, there remains a relative lack of information concerning how Ad5 may influence other ocular cell types capable of confounding experimental interpretation. Here, a slit lamp is used to thoroughly photodocument the sequelae of intraocular Ad5 injections over time in mice, with attention to potentially confounding indices of inflammation. METHODS A cohort of C57BL/6J mice was randomly split into three groups (Virus, receiving unilateral intracameral injection with 5×107 plaque-forming units (pfu) of a cargo-less Ad5 construct; Saline, receiving unilateral balanced salt solution injection; and Naïve, receiving no injections). From this initial experiment, a total of 52 eyes from 26 mice were photodocumented via slit lamp at four time points (baseline and 1, 3, and 10 weeks following initiation of the experiment) by an observer masked to treatments and other parameters of the experimental design. Following the last in vivo exam, tissues were collected. Based on the slit-lamp data, tissues were studied via immunostaining with the macrophage marker F4/80. Subsequently, three iterations of the original experiment were performed with otherwise identical experimental parameters testing the effect of age, intravitreal injection, and A195 buffer, adding slit-lamp photodocumentation of an additional 32 eyes from 16 mice. RESULTS The masked investigator could use the sequential images from each mouse in the initial experiment to assign each mouse to its correct treatment group with near perfect fidelity. Virus-injected eyes were characterized by corneal damage indicative of intraocular injection and a prolonged mobilization of clump cells on the surface of the iris. Saline-injected eyes had only transient corneal opacities indicative of intraocular injections, and Naïve eyes remained normal. Immunostaining with F4/80 was consistent with ascribing the clump cells visualized via slit-lamp imaging as a type of macrophage. Experimental iterations using Ad5 indicate that all virus-injected eyes had the distinguishing feature of a prolonged presence of clump cells on the surface of the iris regardless of injection site. Mice receiving an intraocular injection of Ad5 at an advanced age displayed a protracted course of corneal cloudiness that prevented detailed visualization of the iris at the last time point. CONCLUSIONS Because the eye is often considered an "immune privileged site," we suspect that several studies have neglected to consider that the presence of Ad5 in the eye might evoke strong reactions from the innate immune system. Ad5 injection caused a sustained mobilization of clump cells-that is, macrophages. This change is likely a consequence of either direct macrophage transduction or a secondary response to cytokines produced locally by other transduced cells. Regardless of how these cells were altered, the important implication is that the adenovirus led to long-lasting changes in the environment of the anterior chamber. Thus, these findings describe a caveat of Ad5-mediated studies involving macrophage mobilization, which we encourage groups to use as a bioassay in their experiments and consider in interpretation of their ongoing experiments using adenoviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kacie J. Meyer
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Danielle Pellack
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Adam Hedberg-Buenz
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA
| | - Nicholas Pomernackas
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Dana Soukup
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - John H. Fingert
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Michael G. Anderson
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
- VA Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Loss, Iowa City VA Health Care System, Iowa City, IA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
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6
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Mao M, Popli T, Jeanne M, Hoff K, Sen S, Gould DB. Identification of fibronectin 1 as a candidate genetic modifier in a Col4a1 mutant mouse model of Gould syndrome. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:dmm048231. [PMID: 34424299 PMCID: PMC8106953 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.048231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Collagen type IV alpha 1 and alpha 2 (COL4A1 and COL4A2) are major components of almost all basement membranes. COL4A1 and COL4A2 mutations cause a multisystem disorder that can affect any organ but typically involves the cerebral vasculature, eyes, kidneys and skeletal muscles. In recent years, patient advocacy and family support groups have united under the name of Gould syndrome. The manifestations of Gould syndrome are highly variable, and animal studies suggest that allelic heterogeneity and genetic context contribute to the clinical variability. We previously characterized a mouse model of Gould syndrome caused by a Col4a1 mutation in which the severities of ocular anterior segment dysgenesis (ASD), myopathy and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) were dependent on genetic background. Here, we performed a genetic modifier screen to provide insight into the mechanisms contributing to Gould syndrome pathogenesis and identified a single locus [modifier of Gould syndrome 1 (MoGS1)] on Chromosome 1 that suppressed ASD. A separate screen showed that the same locus ameliorated myopathy. Interestingly, MoGS1 had no effect on ICH, suggesting that this phenotype could be mechanistically distinct. We refined the MoGS1 locus to a 4.3 Mb interval containing 18 protein-coding genes, including Fn1, which encodes the extracellular matrix component fibronectin 1. Molecular analysis showed that the MoGS1 locus increased Fn1 expression, raising the possibility that suppression is achieved through a compensatory extracellular mechanism. Furthermore, we found evidence of increased integrin-linked kinase levels and focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation in Col4a1 mutant mice that is partially restored by the MoGS1 locus, implicating the involvement of integrin signaling. Taken together, our results suggest that tissue-specific mechanistic heterogeneity contributes to the variable expressivity of Gould syndrome and that perturbations in integrin signaling may play a role in ocular and muscular manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Mao
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Tanav Popli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Marion Jeanne
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Kendall Hoff
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Saunak Sen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 66 North Pauline St, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Douglas B. Gould
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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7
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Méjécase C, Way CM, Owen N, Moosajee M. Ocular Phenotype Associated with DYRK1A Variants. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:234. [PMID: 33562844 PMCID: PMC7915179 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A or DYRK1A, contributes to central nervous system development in a dose-sensitive manner. Triallelic DYRK1A is implicated in the neuropathology of Down syndrome, whereas haploinsufficiency causes the rare DYRK1A-related intellectual disability syndrome (also known as mental retardation 7). It is characterised by intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder and microcephaly with a typical facial gestalt. Preclinical studies elucidate a role for DYRK1A in eye development and case studies have reported associated ocular pathology. In this study families of the DYRK1A Syndrome International Association were asked to self-report any co-existing ocular abnormalities. Twenty-six patients responded but only 14 had molecular confirmation of a DYRK1A pathogenic variant. A further nineteen patients from the UK Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project were identified and combined with 112 patients reported in the literature for further analysis. Ninety out of 145 patients (62.1%) with heterozygous DYRK1A variants revealed ocular features, these ranged from optic nerve hypoplasia (13%, 12/90), refractive error (35.6%, 32/90) and strabismus (21.1%, 19/90). Patients with DYRK1A variants should be referred to ophthalmology as part of their management care pathway to prevent amblyopia in children and reduce visual comorbidity, which may further impact on learning, behaviour, and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Méjécase
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V E9L, UK; (C.M.); (C.M.W.); (N.O.)
| | - Christopher M. Way
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V E9L, UK; (C.M.); (C.M.W.); (N.O.)
| | - Nicholas Owen
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V E9L, UK; (C.M.); (C.M.W.); (N.O.)
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London EC1V E9L, UK; (C.M.); (C.M.W.); (N.O.)
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London EC1V 2PD, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London WC1N 3JH, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK
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8
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Xie S, Luo H, Huang Y, Wang Y, Ru W, Shi Y, Huang W, Wang H, Dong Z, Jin W. A Missense Mutation in a Large Subunit of Ribonucleotide Reductase Confers Temperature-Gated Tassel Formation. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 184:1979-1997. [PMID: 33020253 PMCID: PMC7723098 DOI: 10.1104/pp.20.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Temperature is a major factor regulating plant growth. To reproduce at extreme temperatures, plants must develop normal reproductive organs when exposed to temperature changes. However, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanisms. Here, we identified the maize (Zea mays) mutant thermosensitive vanishing tassel1-R (tvt1-R), which lacks tassels at high (restrictive) temperatures due to shoot apical meristem (SAM) arrest, but forms normal tassels at moderate (permissive) temperatures. The critical stage for phenotypic conversion in tvt1-R mutants is V2 to V6 (Vn, where "n" is the number of leaves with collars visible). Positional cloning and allelism and complementation tests revealed that a G-to-A mutation causing a Arg277-to-His277 substitution in ZmRNRL1, a ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) large subunit (RNRL), confers the tvt1-R mutant phenotype. RNR regulates the rate of deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) production for DNA replication and damage repair. By expression, yeast two-hybrid, RNA sequencing, and flow cytometric analyses, we found that ZmRNRL1-tvt1-R failed to interact with all three RNR small subunits at 34°C due to the Arg277-to-His277 substitution, which could impede RNR holoenzyme (α2β2) formation, thereby decreasing the dNTP supply for DNA replication. Decreased dNTP supply may be especially severe for the SAM that requires a continuous, sufficient dNTP supply for rapid division, as demonstrated by the SAM arrest and tassel absence in tvt1-R mutants at restrictive temperatures. Our study reveals a novel mechanism of temperature-gated tassel formation in maize and provides insight into the role of RNRL in SAM maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hongbing Luo
- Maize Engineering and Technology Research Center of Hunan Province, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Yumin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yaxin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wei Ru
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yunlu Shi
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Wei Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhaobin Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Weiwei Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, National Maize Improvement Center, Key Laboratory of Crop Heterosis and Utilization (MOE), Beijing Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Center for Crop Functional Genomics and Molecular Breeding, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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9
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Mroczek M, Sanchez MG. Genetic modifiers and phenotypic variability in neuromuscular disorders. J Appl Genet 2020; 61:547-558. [PMID: 32918245 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-020-00580-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuromuscular disorders are mostly rare diseases with autosomal dominant, recessive, or X-linked inheritance. Interestingly, among patients carrying the same mutations, a range of phenotypic severity is reported. This phenotypic variability in neuromuscular disorders is still not fully understood. This review will focus on genetic modifiers and will briefly describe metabolic pathways, in which they are involved. Genetic modifiers are variants in the same or other genes that modulate the phenotype. Proteins encoded by genetic modifiers in neuromuscular diseases are taking part in different metabolic processes, most commonly in inflammation, growth and regeneration, endoplasmic reticulum metabolism, and cytoskeletal activities. Recent advances in omics technologies, development of computational algorithms, and establishing large international consortia intensified discovery sped up investigation of genetic modifiers. As more individuals affected by neuromuscular disorders are tested, it is often suggested that classic models of genetic causation cannot explain phenotypic variability. There is a growing interest in their discovery and identifying shared metabolic pathways can contribute to design targeted therapies. We provide an update on variants acting as genetic modifiers in neuromuscular disorders and strategies used for their discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Mroczek
- John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3BZ, UK.
| | - Maria Gabriela Sanchez
- Molecular Biology Department, Simon Bolivar University, Sartenejas Valley, Caracas, Venezuela
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10
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Gallego C, Gonçalves MAFV, Wijnholds J. Novel Therapeutic Approaches for the Treatment of Retinal Degenerative Diseases: Focus on CRISPR/Cas-Based Gene Editing. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:838. [PMID: 32973430 PMCID: PMC7468381 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal diseases encompass a highly heterogenous group of disorders caused by a wide range of genetic variants and with diverse clinical symptoms that converge in the common trait of retinal degeneration. Indeed, mutations in over 270 genes have been associated with some form of retinal degenerative phenotype. Given the immune privileged status of the eye, cell replacement and gene augmentation therapies have been envisioned. While some of these approaches, such as delivery of genes through recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, have been successfully tested in clinical trials, not all patients will benefit from current advancements due to their underlying genotype or phenotypic traits. Gene editing arises as an alternative therapeutic strategy seeking to correct mutations at the endogenous locus and rescue normal gene expression. Hence, gene editing technologies can in principle be tailored for treating retinal degeneration. Here we provide an overview of the different gene editing strategies that are being developed to overcome the challenges imposed by the post-mitotic nature of retinal cell types. We further discuss their advantages and drawbacks as well as the hurdles for their implementation in treating retinal diseases, which include the broad range of mutations and, in some instances, the size of the affected genes. Although therapeutic gene editing is at an early stage of development, it has the potential of enriching the portfolio of personalized molecular medicines directed at treating genetic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Gallego
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Manuel A F V Gonçalves
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Wijnholds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Amsterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Méjécase C, Kozak I, Moosajee M. The genetic landscape of inherited eye disorders in 74 consecutive families from the United Arab Emirates. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2020; 184:762-772. [PMID: 32783370 PMCID: PMC8432150 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Genetic eye diseases are phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous, affecting 1 in 1,000 people worldwide. This prevalence can increase in populations where endogamy is a social preference, such as in Arab populations. A retrospective consecutive cohort of 91 patients from 74 unrelated families affected with non-syndromic and syndromic inherited eye disease presenting to the ocular genetics service at Moorfields Eye Hospitals United Arab Emirates (UAE) between 2017 and 2019, underwent clinically accredited genetic testing using targeted gene panels. The mean ± SD age of probands was 27.4 ± 16.2 years, and 45% were female (41/91). The UAE has a diverse and dynamic population, and the main ethnicity of families in this cohort was 74% Arab (n = 55), 8% Indian (n = 6) and 7% Pakistani (n = 5). Fifty-six families (90.3%) were genetically solved, with 69 disease-causing variants in 40 genes. Fourteen novel variants were detected with large deletions in CDHR1 and TTLL5, a multiexon (1-8) duplication in TEAD1 and 11 single nucleotides variants in 9 further genes. ABCA4-retinopathy was the most frequent cause accounting for 21% of cases, with the confirmed UAE founder mutation c.5882G>A p.(Gly1961Glu)/c.2570T>C p.(Leu857Pro) in 25%. High diagnostic yield for UAE patients can guide prognosis, family decision-making, access to clinical trials and approved treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Méjécase
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Igor Kozak
- Moorfields Eye Hospitals United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai, UAE
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospitals United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai, UAE.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.,The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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12
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Méjécase C, Malka S, Guan Z, Slater A, Arno G, Moosajee M. Practical guide to genetic screening for inherited eye diseases. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2020; 12:2515841420954592. [PMID: 33015543 PMCID: PMC7513416 DOI: 10.1177/2515841420954592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic eye diseases affect around one in 1000 people worldwide for which the molecular aetiology remains unknown in the majority. The identification of disease-causing gene variant(s) allows a better understanding of the disorder and its inheritance. There is now an approved retinal gene therapy for autosomal recessive RPE65-retinopathy, and numerous ocular gene/mutation-targeted clinical trials underway, highlighting the importance of establishing a genetic diagnosis so patients can fully access the latest research developments and treatment options. In this review, we will provide a practical guide to managing patients with these conditions including an overview of inheritance patterns, required pre- and post-test genetic counselling, different types of cytogenetic and genetic testing available, with a focus on next generation sequencing using targeted gene panels, whole exome and genome sequencing. We will expand on the pros and cons of each modality, variant interpretation and options for family planning for the patient and their family. With the advent of genomic medicine, genetic screening will soon become mainstream within all ophthalmology subspecialties for prevention of disease and provision of precision therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Méjécase
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College
London, London, UK
| | - Samantha Malka
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College
London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
London, UK
| | - Zeyu Guan
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
London, UK
| | - Amy Slater
- Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation
Trust, London, UK
| | - Gavin Arno
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College
London, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS
Trust, London, UK
| | - Mariya Moosajee
- Professor, Institute of Ophthalmology,
University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,
London, UK
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS
Trust, London, UK
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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13
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Lee W, Paavo M, Zernant J, Stong N, Laurente Z, Bearelly S, Nagasaki T, Tsang SH, Goldstein DB, Allikmets R. Modification of the PROM1 disease phenotype by a mutation in ABCA4. Ophthalmic Genet 2019; 40:369-375. [PMID: 31576780 DOI: 10.1080/13816810.2019.1660382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: The extensive phenotypic heterogeneity of monogenic diseases can be largely traced to intragenic variation; however, recent advances in clinical detection and gene sequencing have uncovered the emerging role of non-allelic variation (i.e. genetic trans-modifiers) in shaping disease phenotypes. Identifying these associations are not only of significant diagnostic value, but also provides scientific insight into the expanded molecular etiology of rare diseases. This reports describes the discordant clinical manifestation of a family segregating mutations in ABCA4 and PROM1. Methods: Three patients across a two generation family underwent multimodal imaging and functional testing of the retina including color photography, fundus autofluorescence (AF), spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and full-field electroretinography (ffERG). Genetic characterization was carried out by direct Sanger and whole exome sequencing. Results: Clinical examination revealed similar retinal degenerative phenotypes in the proband and her mother. Despite being younger, the proband's phenotype was more advanced and exhibited additional features related to Stargardt disease not found in the mother. Whole exome sequencing identified a pathogenic missense variant in PROM1, c.400C > T, p.(Arg134Cys), as the underlying cause of retinal disease in both the proband and mother. Sequencing of the ABCA4 locus uncovered a single disease-causing variant, c.5714 + 5G > A in the daughter segregating from the father who, surprisingly, also exhibited very subtle disease changes associated with STGD1 despite being a heterozygous carrier. Conclusions: Harboring an additional heterozygous ABCA4 mutation increases severity and confers STGD1-like features in patients with PROM1 disease which provides supporting evidence for their shared pathophysiology and potential treatment prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winston Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Maarjaliis Paavo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Jana Zernant
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Nicholas Stong
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Zachary Laurente
- Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Northwestern University , Chicago , Illinois , USA
| | - Srilaxmi Bearelly
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Takayuki Nagasaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Stephen H Tsang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA.,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - David B Goldstein
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
| | - Rando Allikmets
- Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA.,Department of Pathology & Cell Biology, Columbia University , New York , New York , USA
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14
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Effect of ocular hypertension on the pattern of retinal ganglion cell subtype loss in a mouse model of early-onset glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2019; 185:107703. [PMID: 31211954 PMCID: PMC7430001 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2019.107703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease with elevated intraocular pressure as one of the major risk factors. Glaucoma leads to irreversible loss of vision and its progression involves optic nerve head cupping, axonal degeneration, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss, and visual field defects. Despite its high global prevalence, glaucoma still remains a major neurodegenerative disease. Introduction of mouse models of experimental glaucoma has become integral to glaucoma research due to well-studied genetics as well as ease of manipulations. Many established inherent and inducible mouse models of glaucoma are used to study the molecular and physiological progression of the disease. One such model of spontaneous mutation is the nee model, which is caused by mutation of the Sh3pxd2b gene. In both humans and mice, mutations disrupting function of the SH3PXD2B adaptor protein cause a developmental syndrome including secondary congenital glaucoma. The purpose of this study was to characterize the early onset nee glaucoma phenotype on the C57BL/6J background and to evaluate the pattern of RGC loss and axonal degeneration in specific RGC subtypes. We found that the B6.Sh3pxd2bnee mutant animals exhibit glaucoma phenotypes of elevated intraocular pressure, RGC loss and axonal degeneration. Moreover, the non-image forming RGCs survived longer than the On-Off direction selective RGCs (DSGC), and the axonal death in these RGCs was independent of their respective RGC subtype. In conclusion, through this study we characterized an experimental model of early onset glaucoma on a C57BL/6J background exhibiting key glaucoma phenotypes. In addition, we describe that RGC death has subtype-specific sensitivities and follows a specific pattern of cell death under glaucomatous conditions.
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15
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Kawamura Y, Suga A, Fujimaki T, Yoshitake K, Tsunoda K, Murakami A, Iwata T. LRRTM4-C538Y novel gene mutation is associated with hereditary macular degeneration with novel dysfunction of ON-type bipolar cells. J Hum Genet 2018; 63:893-900. [PMID: 29760528 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-018-0465-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The macula is a unique structure in higher primates, where cone and rod photoreceptors show highest density in the fovea and the surrounding area, respectively. The hereditary macular dystrophies represent a heterozygous group of rare disorders characterized by central visual loss and atrophy of the macula and surrounding retina. Here we report an atypical absence of ON-type bipolar cell response in a Japanese patient with autosomal dominant macular dystrophy (adMD). To identify a causal genetic mutation for the adMD, we performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) on four affected and four-non affected members of the family for three generations, and identified a novel p.C538Y mutation in a post-synaptic gene, LRRTM4. WES analysis revealed seven rare genetic variations in patients. We further referred to our in-house WES data from 1360 families with inherited retinal diseases, and found that only p.C538Y mutation in LRRTM4 was associated with adMD-affected patients. Combinatorial filtration using public database of single-nucleotide polymorphism frequency and genotype-phenotype annotated database identified novel mutation in atypical adMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Kawamura
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1, Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan.,Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongou, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Akiko Suga
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1, Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Takuro Fujimaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongou, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Yoshitake
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1, Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Kazushige Tsunoda
- Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1, Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan
| | - Akira Murakami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongou, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwata
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Institute of Sensory Organs, National Hospital Organization, Tokyo Medical Center, 2-5-1, Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 152-8902, Japan.
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