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Pantier R, Brown M, Han S, Paton K, Meek S, Montavon T, Shukeir N, McHugh T, Kelly DA, Hochepied T, Libert C, Jenuwein T, Burdon T, Bird A. MeCP2 binds to methylated DNA independently of phase separation and heterochromatin organisation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3880. [PMID: 38719804 PMCID: PMC11079052 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47395-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Correlative evidence has suggested that the methyl-CpG-binding protein MeCP2 contributes to the formation of heterochromatin condensates via liquid-liquid phase separation. This interpretation has been reinforced by the observation that heterochromatin, DNA methylation and MeCP2 co-localise within prominent foci in mouse cells. The findings presented here revise this view. MeCP2 localisation is independent of heterochromatin as MeCP2 foci persist even when heterochromatin organisation is disrupted. Additionally, MeCP2 foci fail to show hallmarks of phase separation in live cells. Importantly, we find that mouse cellular models are highly atypical as MeCP2 distribution is diffuse in most mammalian species, including humans. Notably, MeCP2 foci are absent in Mus spretus which is a mouse subspecies lacking methylated satellite DNA repeats. We conclude that MeCP2 has no intrinsic tendency to form condensates and its localisation is independent of heterochromatin. Instead, the distribution of MeCP2 in the nucleus is primarily determined by global DNA methylation patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphaël Pantier
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Megan Brown
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Sicheng Han
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Katie Paton
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Stephen Meek
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Thomas Montavon
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Nicholas Shukeir
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Toni McHugh
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - David A Kelly
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Tino Hochepied
- Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Libert
- Center for Inflammation Research, VIB, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thomas Jenuwein
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tom Burdon
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Adrian Bird
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King's Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK.
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2
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Ortega-Alarcon D, Claveria-Gimeno R, Vega S, Kalani L, Jorge-Torres OC, Esteller M, Ausio J, Abian O, Velazquez-Campoy A. Extending MeCP2 interactome: canonical nucleosomal histones interact with MeCP2. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3636-3653. [PMID: 38321951 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
MeCP2 is a general regulator of transcription involved in the repression/activation of genes depending on the local epigenetic context. It acts as a chromatin regulator and binds with exquisite specificity to gene promoters. The set of epigenetic marks recognized by MeCP2 has been already established (mainly, cytosine modifications in CpG and CpA), as well as many of the constituents of its interactome. We unveil a new set of interactions for MeCP2 with the four canonical nucleosomal histones. MeCP2 interacts with high affinity with H2A, H2B, H3 and H4. In addition, Rett syndrome associated mutations in MeCP2 and histone epigenetic marks modulate these interactions. Given the abundance and the structural/functional relevance of histones and their involvement in epigenetic regulation, this new set of interactions and its modulating elements provide a new addition to the 'alphabet' for this epigenetic reader.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ortega-Alarcon
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Unit GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Sonia Vega
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Unit GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ladan Kalani
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BCV8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Olga C Jorge-Torres
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cáncer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), 08907 l'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Ausio
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BCV8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Olga Abian
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Unit GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adrian Velazquez-Campoy
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Unit GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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3
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Nettles SA, Ikeuchi Y, Lefton KB, Abbasi L, Erickson A, Agwu C, Papouin T, Bonni A, Gabel HW. MeCP2 represses the activity of topoisomerase IIβ in long neuronal genes. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113538. [PMID: 38096051 PMCID: PMC10844882 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113538] [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: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A unique signature of neurons is the high expression of the longest genes in the genome. These genes have essential neuronal functions, and disruption of their expression has been implicated in neurological disorders. DNA topoisomerases resolve DNA topological constraints and facilitate neuronal long gene expression. Conversely, the Rett syndrome protein, methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), can transcriptionally repress long genes. How these factors regulate long genes is not well understood, and whether they interact is not known. Here, we identify and map a functional interaction between MeCP2 and topoisomerase IIβ (TOP2β) in mouse neurons. We profile neuronal TOP2β activity genome wide, detecting enrichment at regulatory regions and gene bodies of long genes, including MeCP2-regulated genes. We show that loss and overexpression of MeCP2 alter TOP2β activity at MeCP2-regulated genes. These findings uncover a mechanism of TOP2β inhibition by MeCP2 in neurons and implicate TOP2β dysregulation in disorders caused by MeCP2 disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabin A Nettles
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yoshiho Ikeuchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Katheryn B Lefton
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ladan Abbasi
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Alyssa Erickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chibueze Agwu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Thomas Papouin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Azad Bonni
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Fu TY, Ji SS, Tian YL, Lin YG, Chen YM, Zhong QE, Zheng SC, Xu GF. Methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD)2/3 specifically recognizes and binds to the genomic mCpG site with a β-sheet in the MBD to affect embryonic development in Bombyx mori. INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 30:1607-1621. [PMID: 36915030 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Methyl-CpG (mCpG) binding domain (MBD) proteins especially bind with methylated DNA, and are involved in many important biological processes; however, the binding mechanism between insect MBD2/3 and mCpG remains unclear. In this study, we identified 2 isoforms of the MBD2/3 gene in Bombyx mori, MBD2/3-S and MBD2/3-L. Binding analysis of MBD2/3-L, MBD2/3-S, and 7 mutant MBD2/3-L proteins deficient in β1-β6 or α1 in the MBD showed that β2-β3-turns in the β-sheet of the MBD are necessary for the formation of the MBD2/3-mCpG complex; furthermore, other secondary structures, namely, β4-β6 and an α-helix, play a role in stabilizing the β-sheet structure to ensure that the MBD is able to bind mCpG. In addition, sequence alignment and binding analyses of different insect MBD2/3s indicated that insect MBD2/3s have an intact and conserved MBD that binds to the mCpG of target genes. Furthermore, MBD2/3 RNA interference results showed that MBD2/3-L plays a role in regulating B. mori embryonic development, similar to that of DNA methylation; however, MBD2/3-S without β4-β6 and α-helix does not alter embryonic development. These results suggest that MBD2/3-L recognizes and binds to mCpG through the intact β-sheet structure in its MBD, thus ensuring silkworm embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Yu Fu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuang-Shun Ji
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Lin Tian
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Guang Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Mei Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi-En Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si-Chun Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guan-Feng Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Insect Developmental Biology and Applied Technology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Insect Development Regulation and Application Research, Institute of Insect Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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5
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Chai Y, Lee SSY, Shillington A, Du X, Fok CKM, Yeung KC, Siu GKY, Yuan S, Zheng Z, Tsang HWS, Gu S, Chen Y, Ye T, Ip JPK. Non-canonical C-terminal variant of MeCP2 R344W exhibits enhanced degradation rate. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2023; 15:218-224. [PMID: 37822516 PMCID: PMC10562907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2023.09.007] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the MECP2 gene. While the majority of RTT-causing variants are clustered in the methyl-CpG binding domain and NCoR/SMRT interaction domain, we report a female patient with a functionally uncharacterized MECP2 variant in the C-terminal domain, c.1030C>T (R344W). We functionally characterized MECP2-R344W in terms of protein stability, NCoR/SMRT complex interaction, and protein nuclear localization in vitro. MECP2-R344W cells showed an increased protein degradation rate without significant change in NCoR/SMRT complex interaction and nuclear localization pattern, suggesting that enhanced MECP2 degradation is sufficient to cause a Rett Syndrome-like phenotype. This study highlights the pathogenicity of the C-terminal domain in Rett Syndrome, and demonstrates the potential of targeting MECP2 protein stability as a therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Chai
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science—Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Sharon Shui Ying Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Amelle Shillington
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Xiaoli Du
- Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Catalina Ka Man Fok
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kam Chun Yeung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gavin Ka Yu Siu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shiyang Yuan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhongyu Zheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hayley Wing Sum Tsang
- Division of Life Science, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience and Molecular Neuroscience Center, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shen Gu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Gerald Choa Neuroscience Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science—Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science—Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tao Ye
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Manipulation, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Brain Diseases, The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science—Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Science, Disease and Drug Development, HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science—Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jacque Pak Kan Ip
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Gerald Choa Neuroscience Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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6
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Zhou J, Cattoglio C, Shao Y, Tirumala HP, Vetralla C, Bajikar SS, Li Y, Chen H, Wang Q, Wu Z, Tang B, Zahabiyon M, Bajic A, Meng X, Ferrie JJ, LaGrone A, Zhang P, Kim JJ, Tang J, Liu Z, Darzacq X, Heintz N, Tjian R, Zoghbi HY. A novel pathogenic mutation of MeCP2 impairs chromatin association independent of protein levels. Genes Dev 2023; 37:883-900. [PMID: 37890975 PMCID: PMC10691473 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350733.123] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Loss-of-function mutations in MECP2 cause Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe neurological disorder that mainly affects girls. Mutations in MECP2 do occur in males occasionally and typically cause severe encephalopathy and premature lethality. Recently, we identified a missense mutation (c.353G>A, p.Gly118Glu [G118E]), which has never been seen before in MECP2, in a young boy who suffered from progressive motor dysfunction and developmental delay. To determine whether this variant caused the clinical symptoms and study its functional consequences, we established two disease models, including human neurons from patient-derived iPSCs and a knock-in mouse line. G118E mutation partially reduces MeCP2 abundance and its DNA binding, and G118E mice manifest RTT-like symptoms seen in the patient, affirming the pathogenicity of this mutation. Using live-cell and single-molecule imaging, we found that G118E mutation alters MeCP2's chromatin interaction properties in live neurons independently of its effect on protein levels. Here we report the generation and characterization of RTT models of a male hypomorphic variant and reveal new insight into the mechanism by which this pathological mutation affects MeCP2's chromatin dynamics. Our ability to quantify protein dynamics in disease models lays the foundation for harnessing high-resolution single-molecule imaging as the next frontier for developing innovative therapies for RTT and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Claudia Cattoglio
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) Center of Excellence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Yingyao Shao
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Harini P Tirumala
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Carlo Vetralla
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) Center of Excellence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milano 20126, Italy
| | - Sameer S Bajikar
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Hu Chen
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Qi Wang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Zhenyu Wu
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Bing Tang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Mahla Zahabiyon
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Aleksandar Bajic
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Xiangling Meng
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jack J Ferrie
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) Center of Excellence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Anel LaGrone
- Advanced Technology Cores, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jean J Kim
- Advanced Technology Cores, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Jianrong Tang
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Zhandong Liu
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Xavier Darzacq
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) Center of Excellence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Nathaniel Heintz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Robert Tjian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) Center of Excellence, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA;
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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7
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Chua GNL, Watters JW, Olinares PDB, Luo JA, Chait BT, Liu S. Differential dynamics specify MeCP2 function at methylated DNA and nucleosomes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.02.543478. [PMID: 37333354 PMCID: PMC10274721 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.02.543478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is an essential chromatin-binding protein whose mutations cause Rett syndrome (RTT), a leading cause of monogenic intellectual disabilities in females. Despite its significant biomedical relevance, the mechanism by which MeCP2 navigates the chromatin epigenetic landscape to regulate chromatin structure and gene expression remains unclear. Here, we used correlative single-molecule fluorescence and force microscopy to directly visualize the distribution and dynamics of MeCP2 on a variety of DNA and chromatin substrates. We found that MeCP2 exhibits differential diffusion dynamics when bound to unmethylated and methylated bare DNA. Moreover, we discovered that MeCP2 preferentially binds nucleosomes within the context of chromatinized DNA and stabilizes them from mechanical perturbation. The distinct behaviors of MeCP2 at bare DNA and nucleosomes also specify its ability to recruit TBLR1, a core component of the NCoR1/2 co-repressor complex. We further examined several RTT mutations and found that they disrupt different aspects of the MeCP2-chromatin interaction, rationalizing the heterogeneous nature of the disease. Our work reveals the biophysical basis for MeCP2's methylation-dependent activities and suggests a nucleosome-centric model for its genomic distribution and gene repressive functions. These insights provide a framework for delineating the multifaceted functions of MeCP2 and aid in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella N. L. Chua
- Laboratory of Nanoscale Biophysics and Biochemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
- Tri-Institutional PhD Program in Chemical Biology, New York, NY, USA
| | - John W. Watters
- Laboratory of Nanoscale Biophysics and Biochemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Dominic B. Olinares
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua A. Luo
- Laboratory of Nanoscale Biophysics and Biochemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian T. Chait
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry and Gaseous Ion Chemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shixin Liu
- Laboratory of Nanoscale Biophysics and Biochemistry, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
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8
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Epigenetic regulation in hematopoiesis and its implications in the targeted therapy of hematologic malignancies. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:71. [PMID: 36797244 PMCID: PMC9935927 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01342-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hematologic malignancies are one of the most common cancers, and the incidence has been rising in recent decades. The clinical and molecular features of hematologic malignancies are highly heterogenous, and some hematologic malignancies are incurable, challenging the treatment, and prognosis of the patients. However, hematopoiesis and oncogenesis of hematologic malignancies are profoundly affected by epigenetic regulation. Studies have found that methylation-related mutations, abnormal methylation profiles of DNA, and abnormal histone deacetylase expression are recurrent in leukemia and lymphoma. Furthermore, the hypomethylating agents and histone deacetylase inhibitors are effective to treat acute myeloid leukemia and T-cell lymphomas, indicating that epigenetic regulation is indispensable to hematologic oncogenesis. Epigenetic regulation mainly includes DNA modifications, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA-mediated targeting, and regulates various DNA-based processes. This review presents the role of writers, readers, and erasers of DNA methylation and histone methylation, and acetylation in hematologic malignancies. In addition, this review provides the influence of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs on hematologic malignancies. Furthermore, the implication of epigenetic regulation in targeted treatment is discussed. This review comprehensively presents the change and function of each epigenetic regulator in normal and oncogenic hematopoiesis and provides innovative epigenetic-targeted treatment in clinical practice.
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9
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Das U, Gangisetty O, Chaudhary S, Tarale P, Rousseau B, Price J, Frazier I, Sarkar DK. Epigenetic insight into effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on stress axis development: Systematic review with meta-analytic approaches. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2023; 47:18-35. [PMID: 36341762 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14972] [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: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a systematic review with meta-analytic elements using publicly available Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets to determine the role of epigenetic mechanisms in prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE)-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunctions in offspring. Several studies have demonstrated that PAE has long-term consequences on HPA axis functions in offspring. Some studies determined that alcohol-induced epigenetic alterations during fetal development persist in adulthood. However, additional research is needed to understand the major epigenetic events leading to alcohol-induced teratogenesis of the HPA axis. Our network analysis of GEO datasets identified key pathways relevant to alcohol-mediated histone modifications, DNA methylation, and miRNA involvement associated with PAE-induced alterations of the HPA axis. Our analysis indicated that PAE perturbated the epigenetic machinery to activate corticotrophin-releasing hormone, while it suppressed opioid, glucocorticoid receptor, and circadian clock genes. These results help to further our understanding of the epigenetic basis of alcohol's effects on HPA axis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujjal Das
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Omkaram Gangisetty
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Shaista Chaudhary
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Prashant Tarale
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Bénédicte Rousseau
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Julianne Price
- Molecular Neuroscience of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Training, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ian Frazier
- Molecular Neuroscience of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Training, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Kinesiology & Health, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Dipak K Sarkar
- Endocrinology Program, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Molecular Neuroscience of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Training, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Center of Alcohol & Substance Use Studies, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Rutgers Endocrinology Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
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10
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Shevkoplyas D, Vuu YM, Davie JR, Rastegar M. The Chromatin Structure at the MECP2 Gene and In Silico Prediction of Potential Coding and Non-Coding MECP2 Splice Variants. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415643. [PMID: 36555295 PMCID: PMC9779294 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is an epigenetic reader that binds to methylated CpG dinucleotides and regulates gene transcription. Mecp2/MECP2 gene has 4 exons, encoding for protein isoforms MeCP2E1 and MeCP2E2. MeCP2 plays key roles in neurodevelopment, therefore, its gain- and loss-of-function mutations lead to neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett Syndrome. Here, we describe the structure, functional domains, and evidence support for potential additional alternatively spliced MECP2 transcripts and protein isoforms. We conclude that NCBI MeCP2 isoforms 3 and 4 contain certain MeCP2 functional domains. Our in silico analysis led to identification of histone modification and accessibility profiles at the MECP2 gene and its cis-regulatory elements. We conclude that the human MECP2 gene associated histone post-translational modifications exhibit high similarity between males and females. Between brain regions, histone modifications were found to be less conserved and enriched within larger genomic segments named as "S1-S11". We also identified highly conserved DNA accessibility regions in different tissues and brain regions, named as "A1-A9" and "B1-B9". DNA methylation profile was similar between mid-frontal gyrus of donors 35 days-25 years of age. Based on ATAC-seq data, the identified hypomethylated regions "H1-H8" intersected with most regions of the accessible chromatin (A regions).
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11
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Moshareva MA, Lukyanov KA, Putlyaeva LV. Fluorescence imaging of epigenetic genome modifications. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 622:86-92. [PMID: 35843098 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Epigenome contains a lot of information about cell state. Epigenetic analysis includes primarily sequence-based methods, which provide detailed data on distribution of modifications along the genome, but are poorly applicable for screenings. Specific fluorescence labeling and imaging of epigenetic modifications is an attractive complementary approach. It is currently based mainly on histone modifications study. We expect that inclusion of DNA modifications into imaging-based study would empower the method. In this review we discuss methods for fluorescence imaging of DNA modifications (mainly 5-methylcytosine). It opens an easy way to single cell analysis and high-throughput screening. Moreover, tracking epigenome changes in live cells becomes possible with genetically encoded probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Moshareva
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - Konstantin A Lukyanov
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Lidia V Putlyaeva
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia.
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12
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Epigenetic regulation in cardiovascular disease: mechanisms and advances in clinical trials. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:200. [PMID: 35752619 PMCID: PMC9233709 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01055-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is closely related to cardiovascular diseases. Genome-wide linkage and association analyses and candidate gene approaches illustrate the multigenic complexity of cardiovascular disease. Several epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNA, which are of importance for cardiovascular disease development and regression. Targeting epigenetic key enzymes, especially the DNA methyltransferases, histone methyltransferases, histone acetylases, histone deacetylases and their regulated target genes, could represent an attractive new route for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Herein, we summarize the knowledge on epigenetic history and essential regulatory mechanisms in cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, we discuss the preclinical studies and drugs that are targeted these epigenetic key enzymes for cardiovascular diseases therapy. Finally, we conclude the clinical trials that are going to target some of these processes.
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13
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MeCP2 and transcriptional control of eukaryotic gene expression. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151237. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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14
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A brief history of MECP2 duplication syndrome: 20-years of clinical understanding. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:131. [PMID: 35313898 PMCID: PMC8939085 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS) is a rare, X-linked, neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a duplication of the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene-a gene in which loss-of-function mutations lead to Rett syndrome (RTT). MDS has an estimated live birth prevalence in males of 1/150,000. The key features of MDS include intellectual disability, developmental delay, hypotonia, seizures, recurrent respiratory infections, gastrointestinal problems, behavioural features of autism and dysmorphic features-although these comorbidities are not yet understood with sufficient granularity. This review has covered the past two decades of MDS case studies and series since the discovery of the disorder in 1999. After comprehensively reviewing the reported characteristics, this review has identified areas of limited knowledge that we recommend may be addressed by better phenotyping this disorder through an international data collection. This endeavour would also serve to delineate the clinical overlap between MDS and RTT.
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15
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Collins BE, Neul JL. Rett Syndrome and MECP2 Duplication Syndrome: Disorders of MeCP2 Dosage. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2022; 18:2813-2835. [PMID: 36471747 PMCID: PMC9719276 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s371483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused predominantly by loss-of-function mutations in the gene Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2), which encodes the MeCP2 protein. RTT is a MECP2-related disorder, along with MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS), caused by gain-of-function duplications of MECP2. Nearly two decades of research have advanced our knowledge of MeCP2 function in health and disease. The following review will discuss MeCP2 protein function and its dysregulation in the MECP2-related disorders RTT and MDS. This will include a discussion of the genetic underpinnings of these disorders, specifically how sporadic X-chromosome mutations arise and manifest in specific populations. We will then review current diagnostic guidelines and clinical manifestations of RTT and MDS. Next, we will delve into MeCP2 biology, describing the dual landscapes of methylated DNA and its reader MeCP2 across the neuronal genome as well as the function of MeCP2 as a transcriptional modulator. Following this, we will outline common MECP2 mutations and genotype-phenotype correlations in both diseases, with particular focus on mutations associated with relatively mild disease in RTT. We will also summarize decades of disease modeling and resulting molecular, synaptic, and behavioral phenotypes associated with RTT and MDS. Finally, we list several therapeutics in the development pipeline for RTT and MDS and available evidence of their safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget E Collins
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Neul
- Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Departments of Pediatrics, Pharmacology, and Special Education, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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16
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Proteins That Read DNA Methylation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1389:269-293. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-11454-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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17
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Sirbe C, Simu G, Szabo I, Grama A, Pop TL. Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Hepatitis-Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13578. [PMID: 34948375 PMCID: PMC8703580 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric autoimmune liver disorders include autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis (ASC), and de novo AIH after liver transplantation. AIH is an idiopathic disease characterized by immune-mediated hepatocyte injury associated with the destruction of liver cells, causing inflammation, liver failure, and fibrosis, typically associated with autoantibodies. The etiology of AIH is not entirely unraveled, but evidence supports an intricate interaction among genetic variants, environmental factors, and epigenetic modifications. The pathogenesis of AIH comprises the interaction between specific genetic traits and molecular mimicry for disease development, impaired immunoregulatory mechanisms, including CD4+ T cell population and Treg cells, alongside other contributory roles played by CD8+ cytotoxicity and autoantibody production by B cells. These findings delineate an intricate pathway that includes gene to gene and gene to environment interactions with various drugs, viral infections, and the complex microbiome. Epigenetics emphasizes gene expression through hereditary and reversible modifications of the chromatin architecture without interfering with the DNA sequence. These alterations comprise DNA methylation, histone transformations, and non-coding small (miRNA) and long (lncRNA) RNA transcriptions. The current first-line therapy comprises prednisolone plus azathioprine to induce clinical and biochemical remission. Further understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms encountered in AIH may depict their impact on clinical aspects, detect biomarkers, and guide toward novel, effective, and better-targeted therapies with fewer side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sirbe
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gelu Simu
- Cardiology Department, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Cardiology Department, Rehabilitation Hospital, 400066 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Iulia Szabo
- Department of Rheumatology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alina Grama
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Tudor Lucian Pop
- 2nd Pediatric Discipline, Department of Mother and Child, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (C.S.); (T.L.P.)
- 2nd Pediatric Clinic, Emergency Clinical Hospital for Children, 400177 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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18
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Wu Z, Chen S, Zhou M, Jia L, Li Z, Zhang X, Min J, Liu K. Family-wide Characterization of Methylated DNA Binding Ability of Arabidopsis MBDs. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167404. [PMID: 34919920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
13 MBD-containing genes (AtMBD1-13) have been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana so far, however, their DNA binding ability is still controversial. Here, we systematically measured the DNA binding affinities of these MBDs by ITC and EMSA binding assays, except for those of pseudogenes AtMBD3 and AtMBD13, and found that only AtMBD6 and AtMBD7 function as methylated DNA readers. We also found that the MBD of AtMBD5 exhibits very weak binding to methylated DNA compared to that of AtMBD6. To further investigate the structural basis of AtMBDs in binding to methylated DNA, we determined the complex structure of the AtMBD6 MBD with a 12mer mCG DNA and the apo structure of the AtMBD5 MBD. Structural analysis coupled with mutagenesis studies indicated that, in addition to the conserved arginine fingers contributing to the DNA binding specificity, the residues located in the loop1 and α1 are also essential for the methylated DNA binding of these MBDs in Arabidopsis thaliana, which explains why AtMBD5 MBD and the other AtMBDs display very weak or no binding to methylated DNA. Thus, our study here systematically demonstrates the DNA binding ability of the MBDs in Arabidopsis thaliana, which also provides a general guideline in understanding the DNA binding ability of the MBDs in other plants as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Sizhuo Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Mengqi Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Lingbo Jia
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Xiyou Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China
| | - Jinrong Min
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China.
| | - Ke Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, PR China.
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19
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Chandra K, Banerjee A, Das M. Epigenetic and transcriptional regulation of GnRH gene under altered metabolism and ageing. THE NUCLEUS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13237-021-00374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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20
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Marballi K, MacDonald JL. Proteomic and transcriptional changes associated with MeCP2 dysfunction reveal nodes for therapeutic intervention in Rett syndrome. Neurochem Int 2021; 148:105076. [PMID: 34048843 PMCID: PMC8286335 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in the methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene cause Rett syndrome (RTT), an X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder predominantly impacting females. MECP2 is an epigenetic transcriptional regulator acting mainly to repress gene expression, though it plays multiple gene regulatory roles and has distinct molecular targets across different cell types and specific developmental stages. In this review, we summarize MECP2 loss-of-function associated transcriptome and proteome disruptions, delving deeper into the latter which have been comparatively severely understudied. These disruptions converge on multiple biochemical and cellular pathways, including those involved in synaptic function and neurodevelopment, NF-κB signaling and inflammation, and the vitamin D pathway. RTT is a complex neurological disorder characterized by myriad physiological disruptions, in both the central nervous system and peripheral systems. Thus, treating RTT will likely require a combinatorial approach, targeting multiple nodes within the interactomes of these cellular pathways. To this end, we discuss the use of dietary supplements and factors, namely, vitamin D and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as possible partial therapeutic agents given their demonstrated benefit in RTT and their ability to restore homeostasis to multiple disrupted cellular pathways simultaneously. Further unravelling the complex molecular alterations induced by MECP2 loss-of-function, and contextualizing them at the level of proteome homeostasis, will identify new therapeutic avenues for this complex disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ketan Marballi
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jessica L MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
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21
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Fioriniello S, Csukonyi E, Marano D, Brancaccio A, Madonna M, Zarrillo C, Romano A, Marracino F, Matarazzo MR, D'Esposito M, Della Ragione F. MeCP2 and Major Satellite Forward RNA Cooperate for Pericentric Heterochromatin Organization. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 15:1317-1332. [PMID: 33296675 PMCID: PMC7724518 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) has historically been linked to heterochromatin organization, and in mouse cells it accumulates at pericentric heterochromatin (PCH), closely following major satellite (MajSat) DNA distribution. However, little is known about the specific function of MeCP2 in these regions. We describe the first evidence of a role in neurons for MeCP2 and MajSat forward (MajSat-fw) RNA in reciprocal targeting to PCH through their physical interaction. Moreover, MeCP2 contributes to maintenance of PCH by promoting deposition of H3K9me3 and H4K20me3. We highlight that the MeCP2B isoform is required for correct higher-order PCH organization, and underline involvement of the methyl-binding and transcriptional repression domains. The T158 residue, which is commonly mutated in Rett patients, is directly involved in this process. Our findings support the hypothesis that MeCP2 and the MajSat-fw transcript are mutually dependent for PCH organization, and contribute to clarify MeCP2 function in the regulation of chromatin architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Fioriniello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Eva Csukonyi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Domenico Marano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Arianna Brancaccio
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | | | - Carmela Zarrillo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | | | | | - Maria R Matarazzo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
| | - Maurizio D'Esposito
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples 80131, Italy
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22
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Rodrigues DC, Mufteev M, Ellis J. Regulation, diversity and function of MECP2 exon and 3'UTR isoforms. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:R89-R99. [PMID: 32681172 PMCID: PMC7530521 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) is a critical global regulator of gene expression. Mutations in MECP2 cause neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett syndrome (RTT). MECP2 exon 2 is spliced into two alternative messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) isoforms encoding MECP2-E1 or MECP2-E2 protein isoforms that differ in their N-termini. MECP2-E2, isolated first, was used to define the general roles of MECP2 in methyl-deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding, targeting of transcriptional regulatory complexes, and its disease-causing impact in RTT. It was later found that MECP2-E1 is the most abundant isoform in the brain and its exon 1 is also mutated in RTT. MECP2 transcripts undergo alternative polyadenylation generating mRNAs with four possible 3'untranslated region (UTR) lengths ranging from 130 to 8600 nt. Together, the exon and 3'UTR isoforms display remarkable abundance disparity across cell types and tissues during development. These findings indicate discrete means of regulation and suggest that protein isoforms perform non-overlapping roles. Multiple regulatory programs have been explored to explain these disparities. DNA methylation patterns of the MECP2 promoter and first intron impact MECP2-E1 and E2 isoform levels. Networks of microRNAs and RNA-binding proteins also post-transcriptionally regulate the stability and translation efficiency of MECP2 3'UTR isoforms. Finally, distinctions in biophysical properties in the N-termini between MECP2-E1 and E2 lead to variable protein stabilities and DNA binding dynamics. This review describes the steps taken from the discovery of MECP2, the description of its key functions, and its association with RTT, to the emergence of evidence revealing how MECP2 isoforms are differentially regulated at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deivid Carvalho Rodrigues
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Marat Mufteev
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - James Ellis
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto ON M5G 0A4, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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Stabilization Effect of Intrinsically Disordered Regions on Multidomain Proteins: The Case of the Methyl-CpG Protein 2, MeCP2. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11081216. [PMID: 34439881 PMCID: PMC8391517 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic disorder plays an important functional role in proteins. Disordered regions are linked to posttranslational modifications, conformational switching, extra/intracellular trafficking, and allosteric control, among other phenomena. Disorder provides proteins with enhanced plasticity, resulting in a dynamic protein conformational/functional landscape, with well-structured and disordered regions displaying reciprocal, interdependent features. Although lacking well-defined conformation, disordered regions may affect the intrinsic stability and functional properties of ordered regions. MeCP2, methyl-CpG binding protein 2, is a multifunctional transcriptional regulator associated with neuronal development and maturation. MeCP2 multidomain structure makes it a prototype for multidomain, multifunctional, intrinsically disordered proteins (IDP). The methyl-binding domain (MBD) is one of the key domains in MeCP2, responsible for DNA recognition. It has been reported previously that the two disordered domains flanking MBD, the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the intervening domain (ID), increase the intrinsic stability of MBD against thermal denaturation. In order to prove unequivocally this stabilization effect, ruling out any artifactual result from monitoring the unfolding MBD with a local fluorescence probe (the single tryptophan in MBD) or from driving the protein unfolding by temperature, we have studied the MBD stability by differential scanning calorimetry (reporting on the global unfolding process) and chemical denaturation (altering intramolecular interactions by a different mechanism compared to thermal denaturation).
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24
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MECP2-Related Disorders and Epilepsy Phenotypes. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC NEUROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1728643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
MECP2 (methyl-CpG binding protein-2) gene, located on chromosome Xq28, encodes for a protein particularly abundant in the brain that is required for maturation of astrocytes and neurons and is developmentally regulated. A defective homeostasis of MECP2 expression, either by haploinsufficiency or overexpression, leads to a neurodevelopmental phenotype. As MECP2 is located on chromosome X, the clinical presentation varies in males and females ranging from mild learning disabilities to severe encephalopathies and early death. Typical Rett syndrome (RTT), the most frequent phenotype associated with MECP2 mutations, primarily affects girls and it was previously thought to be lethal in males; however, MECP2 duplication syndrome, resulting from a duplication of the Xq28 region including MECP2, leads to a severe neurodevelopmental disorder in males. RTT and MECP2 duplication syndrome share overlapping clinical phenotypes including intellectual disabilities, motor deficits, hypotonia, progressive spasticity, and epilepsy. In this manuscript we reviewed literature on epilepsy related to MECP2 disorders, focusing on clinical presentation, genotype–phenotype correlation, and treatment.
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25
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Gomes AR, Fernandes TG, Cabral JM, Diogo MM. Modeling Rett Syndrome with Human Pluripotent Stem Cells: Mechanistic Outcomes and Future Clinical Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3751. [PMID: 33916879 PMCID: PMC8038474 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Among many different roles, MeCP2 has a high phenotypic impact during the different stages of brain development. Thus, it is essential to intensively investigate the function of MeCP2, and its regulated targets, to better understand the mechanisms of the disease and inspire the development of possible therapeutic strategies. Several animal models have greatly contributed to these studies, but more recently human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been providing a promising alternative for the study of RTT. The rapid evolution in the field of hPSC culture allowed first the development of 2D-based neuronal differentiation protocols, and more recently the generation of 3D human brain organoid models, a more complex approach that better recapitulates human neurodevelopment in vitro. Modeling RTT using these culture platforms, either with patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) or genetically-modified hPSCs, has certainly contributed to a better understanding of the onset of RTT and the disease phenotype, ultimately allowing the development of high throughput drugs screening tests for potential clinical translation. In this review, we first provide a brief summary of the main neurological features of RTT and the impact of MeCP2 mutations in the neuropathophysiology of this disease. Then, we provide a thorough revision of the more recent advances and future prospects of RTT modeling with human neural cells derived from hPSCs, obtained using both 2D and organoids culture systems, and its contribution for the current and future clinical trials for RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Gomes
- Department of Bioengineering and IBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.R.G.); (T.G.F.); (J.M.S.C.)
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular-João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago G. Fernandes
- Department of Bioengineering and IBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.R.G.); (T.G.F.); (J.M.S.C.)
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Joaquim M.S. Cabral
- Department of Bioengineering and IBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.R.G.); (T.G.F.); (J.M.S.C.)
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Margarida Diogo
- Department of Bioengineering and IBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal; (A.R.G.); (T.G.F.); (J.M.S.C.)
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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26
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Tillotson R, Cholewa-Waclaw J, Chhatbar K, Connelly JC, Kirschner SA, Webb S, Koerner MV, Selfridge J, Kelly DA, De Sousa D, Brown K, Lyst MJ, Kriaucionis S, Bird A. Neuronal non-CG methylation is an essential target for MeCP2 function. Mol Cell 2021; 81:1260-1275.e12. [PMID: 33561390 PMCID: PMC7980222 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation is implicated in neuronal biology via the protein MeCP2, the mutation of which causes Rett syndrome. MeCP2 recruits the NCOR1/2 co-repressor complexes to methylated cytosine in the CG dinucleotide, but also to sites of non-CG methylation, which are abundant in neurons. To test the biological significance of the dual-binding specificity of MeCP2, we replaced its DNA binding domain with an orthologous domain from MBD2, which can only bind mCG motifs. Knockin mice expressing the domain-swap protein displayed severe Rett-syndrome-like phenotypes, indicating that normal brain function requires the interaction of MeCP2 with sites of non-CG methylation, specifically mCAC. The results support the notion that the delayed onset of Rett syndrome is due to the simultaneous post-natal accumulation of mCAC and its reader MeCP2. Intriguingly, genes dysregulated in both Mecp2 null and domain-swap mice are implicated in other neurological disorders, potentially highlighting targets of relevance to the Rett syndrome phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Tillotson
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Justyna Cholewa-Waclaw
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Kashyap Chhatbar
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - John C Connelly
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Sophie A Kirschner
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Shaun Webb
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Martha V Koerner
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Jim Selfridge
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - David A Kelly
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Dina De Sousa
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Kyla Brown
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Matthew J Lyst
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK
| | - Skirmantas Kriaucionis
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Adrian Bird
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF, UK.
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27
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Ortega-Alarcon D, Claveria-Gimeno R, Vega S, Jorge-Torres OC, Esteller M, Abian O, Velazquez-Campoy A. Influence of the disordered domain structure of MeCP2 on its structural stability and dsDNA interaction. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 175:58-66. [PMID: 33548325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.01.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a transcriptional regulator and a chromatin-associated structural protein. MeCP2 deregulation results in two neurodevelopmental disorders: MeCP2 dysfunction is associated with Rett syndrome, while excess of activity is associated with MeCP2 duplication syndrome. MeCP2 is an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) constituted by six structural domains with variable, small percentage of well-defined secondary structure. Two domains, methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD) and transcription repressor domain (TRD), are the elements responsible for dsDNA binding ability and recruitment of the gene transcription/silencing machinery, respectively. Previously we studied the influence of the completely disordered, MBD-flanking domains (N-terminal domain, NTD, and intervening domain, ID) on the structural and functional features of the MBD (Claveria-Gimeno, R. et al. Sci Rep. 2017, 7, 41,635). Here we report the biophysical study of the influence of the remaining domains (transcriptional repressor domain, TRD, and C-terminal domains, CTDα and CTDβ) on the structural stability of MBD and the dsDNA binding capabilities of MBD and ID. The influence of distant disordered domains on MBD properties makes it necessary to consider the NTD-MBD-ID variant as the minimal protein construct for studying dsDNA/chromatin binding properties, while the full-length protein should be considered for transcriptional regulation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ortega-Alarcon
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain
| | - Rafael Claveria-Gimeno
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain; Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sonia Vega
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain
| | - Olga C Jorge-Torres
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain; Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain; Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), 08907, l'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Abian
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain; Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Adrian Velazquez-Campoy
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; Fundación ARAID, Gobierno de Aragón, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
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28
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Abstract
A complete understanding of the dynamics and function of cytosine modifications in mammalian biology is lacking. Central to achieving this understanding is the availability of techniques that permit sensitive and specific genome-wide mapping of DNA modifications in mammalian DNA. The last decade has seen the development of a vast arsenal of novel profiling approaches enabling epigeneticists to tackle research questions that were previously out of reach. Here, we review the techniques currently available for profiling DNA modifications in mammals, discuss their strengths and weaknesses, and speculate on the future direction of DNA modification profiling technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lentini
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Colm E Nestor
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Crown Princess Victoria Children's Hospital, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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29
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Castro-Piedras I, Vartak D, Sharma M, Pandey S, Casas L, Molehin D, Rasha F, Fokar M, Nichols J, Almodovar S, Rahman RL, Pruitt K. Identification of Novel MeCP2 Cancer-Associated Target Genes and Post-Translational Modifications. Front Oncol 2020; 10:576362. [PMID: 33363010 PMCID: PMC7758440 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.576362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal regulation of DNA methylation and its readers has been associated with a wide range of cellular dysfunction. Disruption of the normal function of DNA methylation readers contributes to cancer progression, neurodevelopmental disorders, autoimmune disease and other pathologies. One reader of DNA methylation known to be especially important is MeCP2. It acts a bridge and connects DNA methylation with histone modifications and regulates many gene targets contributing to various diseases; however, much remains unknown about how it contributes to cancer malignancy. We and others previously described novel MeCP2 post-translational regulation. We set out to test the hypothesis that MeCP2 would regulate novel genes linked with tumorigenesis and that MeCP2 is subject to additional post-translational regulation not previously identified. Herein we report novel genes bound and regulated by MeCP2 through MeCP2 ChIP-seq and RNA-seq analyses in two breast cancer cell lines representing different breast cancer subtypes. Through genomics analyses, we localize MeCP2 to novel gene targets and further define the full range of gene targets within breast cancer cell lines. We also further examine the scope of clinical and pre-clinical lysine deacetylase inhibitors (KDACi) that regulate MeCP2 post-translationally. Through proteomics analyses, we identify many additional novel acetylation sites, nine of which are mutated in Rett Syndrome. Our study provides important new insight into downstream targets of MeCP2 and provide the first comprehensive map of novel sites of acetylation associated with both pre-clinical and FDA-approved KDACi used in the clinic. This report examines a critical reader of DNA methylation and has important implications for understanding MeCP2 regulation in cancer models and identifying novel molecular targets associated with epigenetic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Castro-Piedras
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - David Vartak
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Monica Sharma
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Somnath Pandey
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Laura Casas
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Deborah Molehin
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Fahmida Rasha
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Mohamed Fokar
- Center for Biotechnology & Genomics, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Jacob Nichols
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Sharilyn Almodovar
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | | | - Kevin Pruitt
- Department of Immunology and Molecular Microbiology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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30
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Ong LTC, Booth DR, Parnell GP. Vitamin D and its Effects on DNA Methylation in Development, Aging, and Disease. Mol Nutr Food Res 2020; 64:e2000437. [PMID: 33079481 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202000437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation is increasingly being recognized as a mechanism through which environmental exposures confer disease risk. Several studies have examined the association between vitamin D and changes in DNA methylation in areas as diverse as human and animal development, genomic stability, chronic disease risk, and malignancy. In many cases, they have demonstrated clear associations between vitamin D and DNA methylation in candidate disease pathways. Despite this, a clear understanding of the mechanisms by which these factors interact is unclear. This paper reviews the current understanding of the effects of vitamin D on DNA methylation. In light of current knowledge in the field, the potential mechanisms mediating vitamin D effects on DNA methylation are discussed, as are the limiting factors and future avenues for research into this exciting area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence T C Ong
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, 176 Hawkesbury Rd, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Westmead Hospital, Cnr Darcy and Hawkesbury Rds, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
| | - David R Booth
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, 176 Hawkesbury Rd, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
| | - Grant P Parnell
- Centre for Immunology and Allergy Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, 176 Hawkesbury Rd, Westmead, New South Wales, 2145, Australia
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31
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Ortega-Alarcon D, Claveria-Gimeno R, Vega S, Jorge-Torres OC, Esteller M, Abian O, Velazquez-Campoy A. Molecular Context-Dependent Effects Induced by Rett Syndrome-Associated Mutations in MeCP2. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111533. [PMID: 33182787 PMCID: PMC7696773 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a transcriptional regulator and a chromatin-binding protein involved in neuronal development and maturation. Loss-of-function mutations in MeCP2 result in Rett syndrome (RTT), a neurodevelopmental disorder that is the main cause of mental retardation in females. MeCP2 is an intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) constituted by six domains. Two domains are the main responsible elements for DNA binding (methyl-CpG binding domain, MBD) and recruitment of gene transcription/silencing machinery (transcription repressor domain, TRD). These two domains concentrate most of the RTT-associated mutations. R106W and R133C are associated with severe and mild RTT phenotype, respectively. We have performed a comprehensive characterization of the structural and functional impact of these substitutions at molecular level. Because we have previously shown that the MBD-flanking disordered domains (N-terminal domain, NTD, and intervening domain, ID) exert a considerable influence on the structural and functional features of the MBD (Claveria-Gimeno, R. et al. Sci Rep. 2017, 7, 41635), here we report the biophysical study of the influence of the protein scaffold on the structural and functional effect induced by these two RTT-associated mutations. These results represent an example of how a given mutation may show different effects (sometimes opposing effects) depending on the molecular context.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ortega-Alarcon
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (D.O.-A.); (R.C.-G.); (S.V.)
| | - Rafael Claveria-Gimeno
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (D.O.-A.); (R.C.-G.); (S.V.)
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sonia Vega
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (D.O.-A.); (R.C.-G.); (S.V.)
| | - Olga C. Jorge-Torres
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (O.C.J.-T.); (M.E.)
| | - Manel Esteller
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (O.C.J.-T.); (M.E.)
- Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Cancer (CIBERONC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Physiological Sciences Department, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), l’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Abian
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (D.O.-A.); (R.C.-G.); (S.V.)
- Instituto Aragonés de Ciencias de la Salud (IACS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence: (O.A.); (A.V.-C.); Tel.: +34-876-555-417 (O.A.); +34-976-762-996 (A.V.-C.)
| | - Adrian Velazquez-Campoy
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (D.O.-A.); (R.C.-G.); (S.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Fundación ARAID, Gobierno de Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence: (O.A.); (A.V.-C.); Tel.: +34-876-555-417 (O.A.); +34-976-762-996 (A.V.-C.)
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32
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Javed S, Selliah T, Lee YJ, Huang WH. Dosage-sensitive genes in autism spectrum disorders: From neurobiology to therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:538-567. [PMID: 32858083 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorders affecting 1 in 59 children. Syndromic ASDs are commonly associated with chromosomal rearrangements or dosage imbalance involving a single gene. Many of these genes are dosage-sensitive and regulate transcription, protein homeostasis, and synaptic function in the brain. Despite vastly different molecular perturbations, syndromic ASDs share core symptoms including social dysfunction and repetitive behavior. However, each ASD subtype has a unique pathogenic mechanism and combination of comorbidities that require individual attention. We have learned a great deal about how these dosage-sensitive genes control brain development and behaviors from genetically-engineered mice. Here we describe the clinical features of eight monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders caused by dosage imbalance of four genes, as well as recent advances in using genetic mouse models to understand their pathogenic mechanisms and develop intervention strategies. We propose that applying newly developed quantitative molecular and neuroscience technologies will advance our understanding of the unique neurobiology of each disorder and enable the development of personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehrish Javed
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tharushan Selliah
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yu-Ju Lee
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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33
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Connelly JC, Cholewa-Waclaw J, Webb S, Steccanella V, Waclaw B, Bird A. Absence of MeCP2 binding to non-methylated GT-rich sequences in vivo. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:3542-3552. [PMID: 32064528 PMCID: PMC7144902 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 01/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MeCP2 is a nuclear protein that binds to sites of cytosine methylation in the genome. While most evidence confirms this epigenetic mark as the primary determinant of DNA binding, MeCP2 is also reported to have an affinity for non-methylated DNA sequences. Here we investigated the molecular basis and in vivo significance of its reported affinity for non-methylated GT-rich sequences. We confirmed this interaction with isolated domains of MeCP2 in vitro and defined a minimal target DNA sequence. Binding depends on pyrimidine 5′ methyl groups provided by thymine and requires adjacent guanines and a correctly orientated A/T-rich flanking sequence. Unexpectedly, full-length MeCP2 protein failed to bind GT-rich sequences in vitro. To test for MeCP2 binding to these motifs in vivo, we analysed human neuronal cells using ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq technologies. While both methods robustly detected DNA methylation-dependent binding of MeCP2 to mCG and mCAC, neither showed evidence of MeCP2 binding to GT-rich motifs. The data suggest that GT binding is an in vitro phenomenon without in vivo relevance. Our findings argue that MeCP2 does not read unadorned DNA sequence and therefore support the notion that its primary role is to interpret epigenetic modifications of DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Connelly
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Shaun Webb
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, UK
| | - Verdiana Steccanella
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, UK
| | - Bartlomiej Waclaw
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3FD Edinburgh, UK
| | - Adrian Bird
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, UK
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34
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Lee W, Kim J, Yun JM, Ohn T, Gong Q. MeCP2 regulates gene expression through recognition of H3K27me3. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3140. [PMID: 32561780 PMCID: PMC7305159 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16907-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
MeCP2 plays a multifaceted role in gene expression regulation and chromatin organization. Interaction between MeCP2 and methylated DNA in the regulation of gene expression is well established. However, the widespread distribution of MeCP2 suggests it has additional interactions with chromatin. Here we demonstrate, by both biochemical and genomic analyses, that MeCP2 directly interacts with nucleosomes and its genomic distribution correlates with that of H3K27me3. In particular, the methyl-CpG-binding domain of MeCP2 shows preferential interactions with H3K27me3. We further observe that the impact of MeCP2 on transcriptional changes correlates with histone post-translational modification patterns. Our findings indicate that MeCP2 interacts with genomic loci via binding to DNA as well as histones, and that interaction between MeCP2 and histone proteins plays a key role in gene expression regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wooje Lee
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, South Korea
| | - Jeeho Kim
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, South Korea
| | - Jung-Mi Yun
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Takbum Ohn
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Chosun University, Gwangju, 61452, South Korea.
| | - Qizhi Gong
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California at Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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35
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MeCP2 and Chromatin Compartmentalization. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040878. [PMID: 32260176 PMCID: PMC7226738 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a multifunctional epigenetic reader playing a role in transcriptional regulation and chromatin structure, which was linked to Rett syndrome in humans. Here, we focus on its isoforms and functional domains, interactions, modifications and mutations found in Rett patients. Finally, we address how these properties regulate and mediate the ability of MeCP2 to orchestrate chromatin compartmentalization and higher order genome architecture.
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36
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MeCP2 Promotes Colorectal Cancer Metastasis by Modulating ZEB1 Transcription. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030758. [PMID: 32210086 PMCID: PMC7140043 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recurrence and distant organ metastasis is a major cause of death in colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the underlying molecular mechanisms regulating this phenomenon are poorly understood. MeCP2 is a key epigenetic regulator and is amplified in many types of cancer. Its role in CRC and the molecular mechanisms underlying its action remain unknown. Methods: We used western blot and immunohistochemistry to detect MeCP2 expression in CRC tissues, and then investigated its biological functions in vitro and in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation, co-immunoprecipitation, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays were used to detect the associations among MeCP2 (Methyl-CpG binding protein 2), SPI1 (Spi-1 Proto-Oncogene), and ZEB1 (Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1). Results: Using the Cancer Genome Atlas and Oncomine databases, we found MeCP2 expression was upregulated in CRC tissues and this upregulation was related to poor prognosis. Meanwhile, MeCP2 depletion (KO/KD) in CRC cells significantly inhibited stem cell frequency, and invasion and migration ability in vitro, and suppressed CRC metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, we show MeCP2 binds to the transcription factor SPI1, and aids its recruitment to the ZEB1 promoter. SPI1 then facilitates ZEB1 expression at the transcription level. In turn, ZEB1 induces the expression of MMP14, CD133, and SOX2, thereby maintaining CRC stemness and metastasis. Conclusions: MeCP2 is a novel regulator of CRC metastasis. MeCP2 suppression may be a promising therapeutic strategy in CRC.
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Tillotson R, Bird A. The Molecular Basis of MeCP2 Function in the Brain. J Mol Biol 2020; 432:1602-1623. [PMID: 31629770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
MeCP2 is a reader of the DNA methylome that occupies a large proportion of the genome due to its high abundance and the frequency of its target sites. It has been the subject of extensive study because of its link with 'MECP2-related disorders', of which Rett syndrome is the most prevalent. This review integrates evidence from patient mutation data with results of experimental studies using mouse models, cell lines and in vitro systems to critically evaluate our understanding of MeCP2 protein function. Recent evidence challenges the idea that MeCP2 is a multifunctional hub that integrates diverse processes to underpin neuronal function, suggesting instead that its primary role is to recruit the NCoR1/2 co-repressor complex to methylated sites in the genome, leading to dampening of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Tillotson
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, The Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Medical Research Council (MRC) Molecular Haematology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Adrian Bird
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, The Michael Swann Building, King's Buildings, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, UK.
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38
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ChromID identifies the protein interactome at chromatin marks. Nat Biotechnol 2020; 38:728-736. [PMID: 32123383 PMCID: PMC7289633 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-020-0434-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Chromatin modifications regulate genome function by recruiting protein factors to the genome. However, the protein composition at distinct chromatin modifications remains to be fully characterized. Here, we use natural protein domains as modular building blocks to develop engineered chromatin readers (eCRs) selective for DNA methylation and histone tri-methylation at H3K4, H3K9 a H3K27 residues. We first demonstrate their utility as selective chromatin binders in living cells by stably expressing eCRs in mouse embryonic stem cells and measuring their subnuclear localisation, genomic distribution and histone modification–binding preference. By fusing eCRs to the biotin ligase BASU, we establish ChromID, a method for identifying the chromatin-dependent protein interactome based on proximity biotinylation, and apply it to distinct chromatin modifications in mouse stem cells. Using a synthetic dual-modification reader, we also uncover the protein composition at bivalent promoters marked by H3K4me3 and H3K27me3. These results highlight the ability of ChromID to obtain a detailed view of protein interaction networks on chromatin.
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39
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Affinity for DNA Contributes to NLS Independent Nuclear Localization of MeCP2. Cell Rep 2020; 24:2213-2220. [PMID: 30157418 PMCID: PMC6130050 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.07.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
MeCP2 is a nuclear protein that is mutated in the severe neurological disorder Rett syndrome (RTT). The ability to target β-galactosidase to the nucleus was previously used to identify a conserved nuclear localization signal (NLS) in MeCP2 that interacts with the nuclear import factors KPNA3 and KPNA4. Here, we report that nuclear localization of MeCP2 does not depend on its NLS. Instead, our data reveal that an intact methyl-CpG binding domain (MBD) is sufficient for nuclear localization, suggesting that MeCP2 can be retained in the nucleus by its affinity for DNA. Consistent with these findings, we demonstrate that disease progression in a mouse model of RTT is unaffected by an inactivating mutation in the NLS of MeCP2. Taken together, our work reveals an unexpected redundancy between functional domains of MeCP2 in targeting this protein to the nucleus, potentially explaining why NLS-inactivating mutations are rarely associated with disease. Nuclear localization of MeCP2 does not require its NLS DNA binding by MeCP2 contributes to its NLS-independent nuclear localization MeCP2 NLS mutation does not affect pathology in a mouse model of Rett syndrome
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40
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Ribeiro MC, MacDonald JL. Sex differences in Mecp2-mutant Rett syndrome model mice and the impact of cellular mosaicism in phenotype development. Brain Res 2020; 1729:146644. [PMID: 31904347 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
There is currently no effective treatment for Rett syndrome (RTT), a severe X-linked progressive neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the transcriptional regulator MECP2. Because MECP2 is subjected to X-inactivation, most affected individuals are female heterozygotes who display cellular mosaicism for normal and mutant MECP2. Males who are hemizygous for mutant MECP2 are more severely affected than heterozygous females and rarely survive. Mecp2 loss-of-function is less severe in mice, however, and male hemizygous null mice not only survive until adulthood, they have been the most commonly studied model system. Although heterozygous female mice better recapitulate human RTT, they have not been as thoroughly characterized. This is likely because of the added experimental challenges that they present, including delayed and more variable phenotypic progression and cellular mosaicism due to X-inactivation. In this review, we compare phenotypes of Mecp2 heterozygous female mice and male hemizygous null mouse models. Further, we discuss the complexities that arise from the many cell-type and tissue-type specific roles of MeCP2, as well as the combination of cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous disruptions that result from Mecp2 loss-of-function. This is of particular importance in the context of the female heterozygous brain, composed of a mixture of MeCP2+ and MeCP2- cells, the ratio of which can alter RTT phenotypes in the case of skewed X-inactivation. The goal of this review is to provide a clearer understanding of the pathophysiological differences between the mouse models, which is an essential consideration in the design of future pre-clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayara C Ribeiro
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Jessica L MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States.
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41
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Lavery LA, Zoghbi HY. The distinct methylation landscape of maturing neurons and its role in Rett syndrome pathogenesis. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 59:180-188. [PMID: 31542590 PMCID: PMC6892602 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is one of the most common causes of intellectual and developmental disabilities in girls, and is caused by mutations in the gene encoding methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2). Here we will review our current understanding of RTT, the landscape of pathogenic mutations and function of MeCP2, and culminate with recent advances elucidating the distinct DNA methylation landscape in the brain that may explain why disease symptoms are delayed and selective to the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Lavery
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Huda Y Zoghbi
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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42
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de Mendoza A, Lister R, Bogdanovic O. Evolution of DNA Methylome Diversity in Eukaryotes. J Mol Biol 2019:S0022-2836(19)30659-X. [PMID: 31726061 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cytosine DNA methylation (5mC) is a widespread base modification in eukaryotic genomes with critical roles in transcriptional regulation. In recent years, our understanding of 5mC has changed because of advances in 5mC detection techniques that allow mapping of this mark on the whole genome scale. Profiling DNA methylomes from organisms across the eukaryotic tree of life has reshaped our views on the evolution of 5mC. In this review, we explore the macroevolution of 5mC in major eukaryotic groups, and then focus on recent advances made in animals. Genomic 5mC patterns as well as the mechanisms of 5mC deposition tend to be evolutionary labile across large phylogenetic distances; however, some common patterns are starting to emerge. Within the animal kingdom, 5mC diversity has proven to be much greater than anticipated. For example, a previously held common view that genome hypermethylation is a trait exclusive to vertebrates has recently been challenged. Also, data from genome-wide studies are starting to yield insights into the potential roles of 5mC in invertebrate cis regulation. Here we provide an evolutionary perspective of both the well-known and enigmatic roles of 5mC across the eukaryotic tree of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex de Mendoza
- ARC CoE Plant Energy Biology, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | - Ryan Lister
- ARC CoE Plant Energy Biology, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia; Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Ozren Bogdanovic
- Genomics and Epigenetics Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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43
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Leighton G, Williams DC. The Methyl-CpG-Binding Domain 2 and 3 Proteins and Formation of the Nucleosome Remodeling and Deacetylase Complex. J Mol Biol 2019:S0022-2836(19)30599-6. [PMID: 31626804 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Nucleosome Remodeling and Deacetylase (NuRD) complex uniquely combines both deacetylase and remodeling enzymatic activities in a single macromolecular complex. The methyl-CpG-binding domain 2 and 3 (MBD2 and MBD3) proteins provide a critical structural link between the deacetylase and remodeling components, while MBD2 endows the complex with the ability to selectively recognize methylated DNA. Hence, NuRD combines three major arms of epigenetic gene regulation. Research over the past few decades has revealed much of the structural basis driving formation of this complex and started to uncover the functional roles of NuRD in epigenetic gene regulation. However, we have yet to fully understand the molecular and biophysical basis for methylation-dependent chromatin remodeling and transcription regulation by NuRD. In this review, we discuss the structural information currently available for the complex, the role MBD2 and MBD3 play in forming and recruiting the complex to methylated DNA, and the biological functions of NuRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gage Leighton
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - David C Williams
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Inui T, Iwama K, Miyabayashi T, Sato R, Okubo Y, Endo W, Togashi N, Kakisaka Y, Kikuchi A, Mizuguchi T, Kure S, Matsumoto N, Haginoya K. Two males with sick sinus syndrome in a family with 0.6 kb deletions involving major domains in MECP2. Eur J Med Genet 2019; 63:103769. [PMID: 31536832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2019.103769] [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: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) in males can lead to various phenotypes, ranging from neonatal encephalopathy to intellectual disability. In this study, using Nord's method of next-generation sequencing in three siblings, we identified a 0.6 kb deletion involving the transcriptional repression domain (TRD). Two males and one female had intellectual disability and apnea, but none met the criteria of Rett syndrome. Both males had sick sinus syndrome and severe tracheomalacia that resulted in early death. The mother, with skewed X-inactivation, had no symptoms. Therefore, this mutation is pathological for both males and females, resulting in sick sinus syndrome and severe tracheomalacia with strong reproducibility in males. Deletions involving major domains in MECP2 can result in a severe phenotype, and deletion of the TRD domain can cause severe autonomic nervous system dysregulation in males in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiko Inui
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiro Iwama
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takuya Miyabayashi
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan
| | - Ryo Sato
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan
| | - Yukimune Okubo
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan
| | - Wakaba Endo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Noriko Togashi
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kakisaka
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Atsuo Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takeshi Mizuguchi
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Shigeo Kure
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Naomichi Matsumoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Haginoya
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Miyagi Children's Hospital, 4-3-17 Ochiai, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi, Miyagi, 989-3126, Japan; Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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45
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Zhang W, Feng G, Wang L, Teng F, Wang L, Li W, Zhang Y, Zhou Q. MeCP2 deficiency promotes cell reprogramming by stimulating IGF1/AKT/mTOR signaling and activating ribosomal protein-mediated cell cycle gene translation. J Mol Cell Biol 2019; 10:515-526. [PMID: 29562294 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjy018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offers a great opportunity in research and regenerative medicine. The current poor efficiency and incomplete mechanistic understanding of the reprogramming process hamper the clinical application of iPSCs. MeCP2 connects histone modification and DNA methylation, which are key changes of somatic cell reprogramming. However, the role of MeCP2 in cell reprogramming has not been examined. In this study, we found that MeCP2 deficiency enhanced reprogramming efficiency and stimulated cell proliferation through regulating cell cycle protein expression in the early stage of reprogramming. MeCP2 deficiency enhanced the expression of ribosomal protein genes, thereby enhancing reprogramming efficiency through promoting the translation of cell cycle genes. In the end, MeCP2 deficiency stimulated IGF1/AKT/mTOR signaling and activated ribosomal protein gene expression. Taken together, our data indicate that MeCP2 deficiency promoted cell reprogramming through stimulating IGF1/AKT/mTOR signaling and activating ribosomal protein-mediated cell cycle gene translation in the early stage of reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guihai Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Libin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Teng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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46
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Keidar L, Gerlitz G, Kshirsagar A, Tsoory M, Olender T, Wang X, Yang Y, Chen YS, Yang YG, Voineagu I, Reiner O. Interplay of LIS1 and MeCP2: Interactions and Implications With the Neurodevelopmental Disorders Lissencephaly and Rett Syndrome. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:370. [PMID: 31474834 PMCID: PMC6703185 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
LIS1 is the main causative gene for lissencephaly, while MeCP2 is the main causative gene for Rett syndrome, both of which are neurodevelopmental diseases. Here we report nuclear functions for LIS1 and identify previously unrecognized physical and genetic interactions between the products of these two genes in the cell nucleus, that has implications on MeCP2 organization, neuronal gene expression and mouse behavior. Reduced LIS1 levels affect the association of MeCP2 with chromatin. Transcriptome analysis of primary cortical neurons derived from wild type, Lis1±, MeCP2−/y, or double mutants mice revealed a large overlap in the differentially expressed (DE) genes between the various mutants. Overall, our findings provide insights on molecular mechanisms involved in the neurodevelopmental disorders lissencephaly and Rett syndrome caused by dysfunction of LIS1 and MeCP2, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liraz Keidar
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Gabi Gerlitz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Aditya Kshirsagar
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Michael Tsoory
- Department of Veterinary Resources, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tsviya Olender
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Xing Wang
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Sheng Chen
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Gui Yang
- Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Irina Voineagu
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Orly Reiner
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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47
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Cholewa-Waclaw J, Shah R, Webb S, Chhatbar K, Ramsahoye B, Pusch O, Yu M, Greulich P, Waclaw B, Bird AP. Quantitative modelling predicts the impact of DNA methylation on RNA polymerase II traffic. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:14995-15000. [PMID: 31289233 PMCID: PMC6660794 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1903549116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Patterns of gene expression are primarily determined by proteins that locally enhance or repress transcription. While many transcription factors target a restricted number of genes, others appear to modulate transcription levels globally. An example is MeCP2, an abundant methylated-DNA binding protein that is mutated in the neurological disorder Rett syndrome. Despite much research, the molecular mechanism by which MeCP2 regulates gene expression is not fully resolved. Here, we integrate quantitative, multidimensional experimental analysis and mathematical modeling to indicate that MeCP2 is a global transcriptional regulator whose binding to DNA creates "slow sites" in gene bodies. We hypothesize that waves of slowed-down RNA polymerase II formed behind these sites travel backward and indirectly affect initiation, reminiscent of defect-induced shockwaves in nonequilibrium physics transport models. This mechanism differs from conventional gene-regulation mechanisms, which often involve direct modulation of transcription initiation. Our findings point to a genome-wide function of DNA methylation that may account for the reversibility of Rett syndrome in mice. Moreover, our combined theoretical and experimental approach provides a general method for understanding how global gene-expression patterns are choreographed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Cholewa-Waclaw
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Shah
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Shaun Webb
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kashyap Chhatbar
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Bernard Ramsahoye
- Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital Campus, EH4 2XU Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Pusch
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Miao Yu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, San Diego Branch, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Philip Greulich
- Mathematical Sciences, University of Southampton, SO17 1BJ Southampton, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, SO17 1BJ Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Bartlomiej Waclaw
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3FD Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian P Bird
- The Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3BF Edinburgh, United Kingdom;
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48
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Vidal S, Pascual-Alonso A, Rabaza-Gairí M, Gerotina E, Brandi N, Pacheco P, Xiol C, Pineda M, Armstrong J. Characterization of large deletions of the MECP2 gene in Rett syndrome patients by gene dosage analysis. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2019; 7:e793. [PMID: 31206249 PMCID: PMC6687651 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rett syndrome (RTT) is a developmental disorder with an early onset and X‐linked dominant inheritance pattern. It is first recognized in infancy and is seen almost always in girls, but it may be seen in boys on rare occasions. Typical RTT is caused by de novo mutations of the gene MECP2 (OMIM*300005), and atypical forms of RTT can be caused by mutations of the CDKL5 (OMIM*300203) and FOXG1 (OMIM*164874) genes. Methods Approximately 5% of the mutations detected in MECP2 are large rearrangements that range from exons to the entire gene. Here, we have characterized the deletions detected by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) in the gene MECP2 of 21 RTT patients. Breakpoints were delineated by DNA‐qPCR until the amplification of the deleted allele by long‐PCR was possible. Results This methodology enabled us to characterize deletions ranging from 1,235 bp to 85 kb, confirming the partial or total deletion of the MECP2 gene in all these patients. Additionally, our cases support the evidence claiming that most of these breakpoints occur in some restricted regions of the MECP2 gene. Conclusion These molecular data together with the clinical information enable us to propose a genotype–phenotype correlation, which is essential for providing genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Vidal
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.,Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Ainhoa Pascual-Alonso
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.,Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Marc Rabaza-Gairí
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.,Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Edgar Gerotina
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.,Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Nuria Brandi
- Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paola Pacheco
- Molecular and Genetics Medicine Section, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Clara Xiol
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.,Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Mercè Pineda
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Judith Armstrong
- Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Lobregat (Barcelona), Spain.,Molecular and Genetics Medicine Section, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER-ER (Biomedical Network Research Center for Rare Diseases), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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49
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Mahmood N, Rabbani SA. DNA Methylation Readers and Cancer: Mechanistic and Therapeutic Applications. Front Oncol 2019; 9:489. [PMID: 31245293 PMCID: PMC6579900 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is a major epigenetic process that regulates chromatin structure which causes transcriptional activation or repression of genes in a context-dependent manner. In general, DNA methylation takes place when methyl groups are added to the appropriate bases on the genome by the action of "writer" molecules known as DNA methyltransferases. How these methylation marks are read and interpreted into different functionalities represents one of the main mechanisms through which the genes are switched "ON" or "OFF" and typically involves different types of "reader" proteins that can recognize and bind to the methylated regions. A tightly balanced regulation exists between the "writers" and "readers" in order to mediate normal cellular functions. However, alterations in normal methylation pattern is a typical hallmark of cancer which alters the way methylation marks are written, read and interpreted in different disease states. This unique characteristic of DNA methylation "readers" has identified them as attractive therapeutic targets. In this review, we describe the current state of knowledge on the different classes of DNA methylation "readers" identified thus far along with their normal biological functions, describe how they are dysregulated in cancer, and discuss the various anti-cancer therapies that are currently being developed and evaluated for targeting these proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niaz Mahmood
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Shafaat A Rabbani
- Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, QC, Canada
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50
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Liu K, Lei M, Wu Z, Gan B, Cheng H, Li Y, Min J. Structural analyses reveal that MBD3 is a methylated CG binder. FEBS J 2019; 286:3240-3254. [PMID: 30980593 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The MBD3, a methyl-CpG-binding domain (MBD)-containing protein, is a core subunit of the Mi-2/NuRD complex. Recent reports show that MBD3 recognizes both methylated CG (mCG)- and hydroxymethylated CG (hmCG)-containing DNA, with a preference for hmCG. However, whether the MBD3-MBD indeed has methyl-CG-binding ability is controversial. In this study, we provided the structural basis to support the ability of MBD3-MBD to bind mCG-containing DNA. We found that the MBD3-MBD bound to mCG-containing DNA through two conserved arginine fingers, and preferentially bound to mCG over hmCG, similar to other methyl-CpG-binding MBD proteins. Compared to its closest homolog MBD2, the tyrosine-to-phenylalanine substitution at Phe34 of MBD3 is responsible for a weaker mCG DNA binding ability. Based on the complex structure of MBD3-MBD with a nonpalindromic AmCGC DNA, we suggest that all the mCG-binding MBD domains can recognize mCG-containing DNA without orientation selectivity, consistent with our observations that the sequences outside the mCG dinucleotide do not affect mCG DNA binding significantly. DNA cytosine methylation is evolutionarily conserved in most metazoans, and most invertebrates have only one MBD gene, MBD2/3. We also looked into the mCG DNA binding ability of some invertebrates MBD2/3 and found that the conserved arginine fingers and a conserved structural fold are required for methylated DNA binding by MBD2/3-MBDs in invertebrates. Hence, our results demonstrate that mCG-binding arginine fingers embedded into a conserved structural fold are essential structural features for MBD2/3s binding to methylated DNA among metazoans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China.,Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Ming Lei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China.,Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Zhibin Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bing Gan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Harry Cheng
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Yanjun Li
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Jinrong Min
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China.,Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Canada
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