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Abou Nader N, Charrier L, Meisnsohn MC, Banville L, Deffrennes B, St-Jean G, Boerboom D, Zamberlam G, Brind'Amour J, Pépin D, Boyer A. Lats1 and Lats2 regulate YAP and TAZ activity to control the development of mouse Sertoli cells. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23633. [PMID: 38690712 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400346r] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Recent reports suggest that the Hippo signaling pathway regulates testis development, though its exact roles in Sertoli cell differentiation remain unknown. Here, we examined the functions of the main Hippo pathway kinases, large tumor suppressor homolog kinases 1 and 2 (Lats1 and Lats2) in developing mouse Sertoli cells. Conditional inactivation of Lats1/2 in Sertoli cells resulted in the disorganization and overgrowth of the testis cords, the induction of a testicular inflammatory response and germ cell apoptosis. Stimulated by retinoic acid 8 (STRA8) expression in germ cells additionally suggested that germ cells may have been preparing to enter meiosis prior to their loss. Gene expression analyses of the developing testes of conditional knockout animals further suggested impaired Sertoli cell differentiation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and the induction of a specific set of genes associated with Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ)-mediated integrin signaling. Finally, the involvement of YAP/TAZ in Sertoli cell differentiation was confirmed by concomitantly inactivating Yap/Taz in Lats1/2 conditional knockout model, which resulted in a partial rescue of the testicular phenotypic changes. Taken together, these results identify Hippo signaling as a crucial pathway for Sertoli cell development and provide novel insight into Sertoli cell fate maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Abou Nader
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Laureline Charrier
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Charlotte Meisnsohn
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laurence Banville
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bérengère Deffrennes
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
- École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Guillaume St-Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gustavo Zamberlam
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julie Brind'Amour
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Pépin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada
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2
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Kumar C, Roy JK. Decoding the epigenetic mechanism of mammalian sex determination. Exp Cell Res 2024; 439:114011. [PMID: 38531506 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114011] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Sex determination embodies a dynamic and intricate developmental process wielding significant influence over the destiny of bipotential gonads, steering them towards male or female gonads. Gonadal differentiation and the postnatal manifestation of the gonadal phenotype involve a sophisticated interplay of transcription factors such as SOX9 and FOXL2. Central to this interplay are chromatin modifiers regulating the mutual antagonism during this interplay. In this review, the key findings and knowledge gaps in DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA-mediated control throughout mammalian gonadal development are covered. Furthermore, it explores the role of the developing brain in playing a pivotal role in the initiation of gonadogenesis and the subsequent involvement of gonadal hormone/hormone receptor in fine-tuning sexual differentiation. Based on promising facts, the role of the developing brain through the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis is explained and suggested as a novel hypothesis. The article also discusses the potential impact of ecological factors on the human epigenome in relation to sex determination and trans-generational epigenetics in uncovering novel genes and mechanisms involved in sex determination and gonadal differentiation. We have subtly emphasized the disruptions in epigenetic regulations contributing to sexual disorders, which further allows us to raise certain questions, decipher approaches for handling these questions and setting up the direction of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cash Kumar
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Jagat Kumar Roy
- Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India.
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KATO S, YOKOYAMA T, FUJIKAWA T, KIRIZUKI Y, MANTANI Y, MIKI T, HOSHI N. Establishment of an organ culture system to maintain the structure of mouse Müllerian ducts during development. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:300-307. [PMID: 38267037 PMCID: PMC10963091 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We previously showed that the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), infiltrating from the testis to the mesonephros reaches the cranial and middle regions of the Müllerian duct (MD) and induces their regression using an organ culture in mice. However, it is difficult to maintain structural integrity, such as the length and diameter and normal direction of elongation of the caudal region of the MD, in conventional organ culture systems. Therefore, the pathway of AMH to the caudal MD region remains uncharted. In this study, we established an organ culture method that can maintain the morphology of the caudal region of the MD. The gonad-mesonephros complex, metanephros, and urinary bladder of mouse fetuses at 12.5 dpc attached to the body trunk were cultured on agarose gels for 72 hr. The cultured caudal region of the mesonephros was elongated along the body trunk, and the course of the mesonephros was maintained in many individuals. In males, mesenchymal cells aggregated around the MD after culture. Moreover, the male MD diameter was significantly smaller than the female. Based on these results, it was concluded that the development of the MD was maintained in the present organ culture system. Using this culture system, AMH infiltration to the caudal region of the MD can be examined without the influence of AMH in the blood. This culture system is useful for clarifying the regression mechanism of the caudal region of the MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiori KATO
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Toshifumi YOKOYAMA
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Taisei FUJIKAWA
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Yusuke KIRIZUKI
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Youhei MANTANI
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Takanori MIKI
- Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko HOSHI
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Hyogo, Japan
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4
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Kato S, Yokoyama T, Okunishi N, Narita H, Fujikawa T, Kirizuki Y, Mantani Y, Miki T, Hoshi N. Direct diffusion of anti-Müllerian hormone from both the cranial and caudal regions of the testis during early gonadal development in mice. Dev Dyn 2024; 253:296-311. [PMID: 37787412 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.662] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Müllerian duct (MD), the primordium of the female reproductive tract, is also formed in males during the early stage of development, then regresses due to the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) secreted from the testes. However, the detailed diffusion pathway of AMH remains unclear. We herein investigated the mechanism by which AMH reaches the middle region of the MD using an organ culture system. RESULTS Injection of recombinant human AMH into the testis around the start of MD regression induced diffuse immunoreactivity in the mesonephros near the injection site. When the testis and mesonephros were cultured separately, the diameters of both cranial and middle MDs were significantly increased compared to the control. In the testis-mesonephros complex cultured by inhibiting the diffusion of AMH through the cranial region, the cranial MD diameter was significantly increased compared to the control, and there was no difference in middle MD diameter. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that AMH, which infiltrates from the testis through the cranial region at physiological concentrations, induces regression of the cranial MD at the start of MD regression. They also indicate that AMH infiltrating through the caudal regions induces regression of the middle MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiori Kato
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Yokoyama
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Nobusuke Okunishi
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroto Narita
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Taisei Fujikawa
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kirizuki
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Youhei Mantani
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takanori Miki
- Faculty of Medicine, Departments of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Kagawa University, Miki-cho, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Hoshi
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
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Tan JL, Major AT, Smith CA. Mini review: Asymmetric Müllerian duct development in the chicken embryo. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1347711. [PMID: 38380340 PMCID: PMC10877723 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1347711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Müllerian ducts are paired embryonic tubes that give rise to the female reproductive tract. In humans, the Müllerian ducts differentiate into the Fallopian tubes, uterus and upper portion of the vagina. In birds and reptiles, the Müllerian ducts develop into homologous structures, the oviducts. The genetic and hormonal regulation of duct development is a model for understanding sexual differentiation. In males, the ducts typically undergo regression during embryonic life, under the influence of testis-derived Anti-Müllerian Hormone, AMH. In females, a lack of AMH during embryogenesis allows the ducts to differentiate into the female reproductive tract. In the chicken embryo, a long-standing model for development and sexual differentiation, Müllerian duct development in females in asymmetric. Only the left duct forms an oviduct, coincident with ovary formation only on the left side of the body. The right duct, together with the right gonad, becomes vestigial. The mechanism of this avian asymmetry has never been fully resolved, but is thought to involve local interplay between AMH and sex steroid hormones. This mini-review re-visits the topic, highlighting questions in the field and proposing a testable model for asymmetric duct development. We argue that current molecular and imaging techniques will shed new light on this curious asymmetry. Information on asymmetric duct development in the chicken model will inform our understanding of sexual differentiation in vertebrates more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig A. Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Takahashi H, Ito R, Matsumura Y, Sakai J. Environmental factor reversibly determines cellular identity through opposing Integrators that unify epigenetic and transcriptional pathways. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300084. [PMID: 38013256 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300084] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Organisms must adapt to environmental stresses to ensure their survival and prosperity. Different types of stresses, including thermal, mechanical, and hypoxic stresses, can alter the cellular state that accompanies changes in gene expression but not the cellular identity determined by a chromatin state that remains stable throughout life. Some tissues, such as adipose tissue, demonstrate remarkable plasticity and adaptability in response to environmental cues, enabling reversible cellular identity changes; however, the mechanisms underlying these changes are not well understood. We hypothesized that positive and/or negative "Integrators" sense environmental cues and coordinate the epigenetic and transcriptional pathways required for changes in cellular identity. Adverse environmental factors such as pollution disrupt the coordinated control contributing to disease development. Further research based on this hypothesis will reveal how organisms adapt to fluctuating environmental conditions, such as temperature, extracellular matrix stiffness, oxygen, cytokines, and hormonal cues by changing their cellular identities.
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Grants
- JP20gm1310007 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development
- JP16H06390 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP21H04826 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP20H04835 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP20K21747 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP22K18411 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP21K21211 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JP19J11909 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JPMJPF2013 Japan Science and Technology Agency
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Takahashi
- Division of Molecular Physiology and Metabolism, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Metabolic Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryo Ito
- Division of Molecular Physiology and Metabolism, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Matsumura
- Division of Molecular Physiology and Metabolism, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Metabolic Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Juro Sakai
- Division of Molecular Physiology and Metabolism, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Division of Metabolic Medicine, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Li M, Sun L, Zhou L, Wang D. Tilapia, a good model for studying reproductive endocrinology. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 345:114395. [PMID: 37879418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), with a system of XX/XY sex determination, is a worldwide farmed fish with a shorter sexual maturation time than that of most cultured fish. Tilapia show a spawning cycle of approximately 14 days and can be artificially propagated in the laboratory all year round to obtain genetically all female (XX) and all male (XY) fry. Its genome sequence has been opened, and a perfect gene editing platform has been established. With a moderate body size, it is convenient for taking enough blood to measure hormone level. In recent years, using tilapia as animal model, we have confirmed that estrogen is crucial for female development because 1) mutation of star2, cyp17a1 or cyp19a1a (encoding aromatase, the key enzyme for estrogen synthesis) results in sex reversal (SR) due to estrogen deficiency in XX tilapia, while mutation of star1, cyp11a1, cyp17a2, cyp19a1b or cyp11c1 affects fertility due to abnormal androgen, cortisol and DHP levels in XY tilapia; 2) when the estrogen receptors (esr2a/esr2b) are mutated, the sex is reversed from female to male, while when the androgen receptors are mutated, the sex cannot be reversed; 3) the differentiated ovary can be transdifferentiated into functional testis by inhibition of estrogen synthesis, and the differentiated testis can be transdifferentiated into ovary by simultaneous addition of exogenous estrogen and androgen synthase inhibitor; 4) loss of male pathway genes amhy, dmrt1, gsdf causes SR with upregulation of cyp19a1a in XY tilapia. Disruption of estrogen synthesis rescues the male to female SR of amhy and gsdf but not dmrt1 mutants; 5) mutation of female pathway genes foxl2 and sf-1 causes SR with downregulation of cyp19a1a in XX tilapia; 6) the germ cell SR of foxl3 mutants fails to be rescued by estrogen treatment, indicating that estrogen determines female germ cell fate through foxl3. This review also summarized the effects of deficiency of other steroid hormones, such as androgen, DHP and cortisol, on fish reproduction. Overall, these studies demonstrate that tilapia is an excellent animal model for studying reproductive endocrinology of fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lina Sun
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linyan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.
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Tamagawa K, Sunobe T, Makino T, Kawata M. Transcriptomic signatures associated with underlying rapid changes in the early phase brain of bi-directional sex change in Trimma okinawae. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:231450. [PMID: 38077214 PMCID: PMC10698487 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Teleost fish exhibit remarkable sexual plasticity and divergent developmental systems, including sequential hermaphroditism. One of the more fascinating models of sexual plasticity is socially controlled sex change, which is often observed in coral reef fish. The Okinawa rubble goby, Trimma okinawae, is a bi-directional sex-changing fish. It can rapidly change sex in either direction based on social circumstances. Although behavioural and neuroendocrine sex change occurs immediately and is believed to trigger gonadal changes, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a de novo transcriptome analysis of the T. okinawae brain and identified genes that are differentially expressed between the sexes and genes that were immediately controlled by social stimulation implicating sex change. Several genes showed concordant expression shifts regardless of the sex change direction and were associated with histone modification in nerve cells. These genes are known to function in the neuroendocrine control of reproduction in nerve cells. Overall, we identified genes associated with the initiation of sex change, which provides insight into the regulation of sex change and sexual plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsunori Tamagawa
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Tomoki Sunobe
- Laboratory of Fish Behavioral Ecology, Tateyama Station, Field Science Center, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, 670 Banda, Tateyama, Chiba 294-0308, Japan
| | - Takashi Makino
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
| | - Masakado Kawata
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8578, Japan
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9
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Ghosh A, Chakraborty P, Biswas D. Fine tuning of the transcription juggernaut: A sweet and sour saga of acetylation and ubiquitination. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194944. [PMID: 37236503 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Among post-translational modifications of proteins, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitination are most extensively studied over the last several decades. Owing to their different target residues for modifications, cross-talk between phosphorylation with that of acetylation and ubiquitination is relatively less pronounced. However, since canonical acetylation and ubiquitination happen only on the lysine residues, an overlap of the same lysine residue being targeted for both acetylation and ubiquitination happens quite frequently and thus plays key roles in overall functional regulation predominantly through modulation of protein stability. In this review, we discuss the cross-talk of acetylation and ubiquitination in the regulation of protein stability for the functional regulation of cellular processes with an emphasis on transcriptional regulation. Further, we emphasize our understanding of the functional regulation of Super Elongation Complex (SEC)-mediated transcription, through regulation of stabilization by acetylation, deacetylation and ubiquitination and associated enzymes and its implication in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Ghosh
- Laboratory of Transcription Biology Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 32, India
| | - Poushali Chakraborty
- Laboratory of Transcription Biology Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 32, India
| | - Debabrata Biswas
- Laboratory of Transcription Biology Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, 4, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 32, India.
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10
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Maezawa S, Yukawa M, Hasegawa K, Sugiyama R, Iizuka M, Hu M, Sakashita A, Vidal M, Koseki H, Barski A, DeFalco T, Namekawa SH. PRC1 suppresses a female gene regulatory network to ensure testicular differentiation. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:501. [PMID: 37542070 PMCID: PMC10403552 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05996-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal sex determination and differentiation are controlled by somatic support cells of testes (Sertoli cells) and ovaries (granulosa cells). In testes, the epigenetic mechanism that maintains chromatin states responsible for suppressing female sexual differentiation remains unclear. Here, we show that Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1) suppresses a female gene regulatory network in postnatal Sertoli cells. We genetically disrupted PRC1 function in embryonic Sertoli cells after sex determination, and we found that PRC1-depleted postnatal Sertoli cells exhibited defective proliferation and cell death, leading to the degeneration of adult testes. In adult Sertoli cells, PRC1 suppressed specific genes required for granulosa cells, thereby inactivating the female gene regulatory network. Chromatin regions associated with female-specific genes were marked by Polycomb-mediated repressive modifications: PRC1-mediated H2AK119ub and PRC2-mediated H3K27me3. Taken together, this study identifies a critical Polycomb-based mechanism that suppresses ovarian differentiation and maintains Sertoli cell fate in adult testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Maezawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Azabu University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-5201, Japan.
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan.
| | - Masashi Yukawa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Kazuteru Hasegawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Ryo Sugiyama
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Mizuho Iizuka
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Science, Chiba, 278-8510, Japan
| | - Mengwen Hu
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, 160-8582, Japan
| | - Miguel Vidal
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Madrid, 28040, Spain
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- Developmental Genetics Laboratory, RIKEN Center for Allergy and Immunology, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Artem Barski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Tony DeFalco
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Satoshi H Namekawa
- Reproductive Sciences Center, Division of Developmental Biology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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11
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Sun Q, Zhuang Z, Bai R, Deng J, Xin T, Zhang Y, Li Q, Han B. Lysine 68 Methylation-Dependent SOX9 Stability Control Modulates Chondrogenic Differentiation in Dental Pulp Stem Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206757. [PMID: 37386801 PMCID: PMC10460901 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), characterized by easy availability, multi-lineage differentiation ability, and high proliferation ability, are ideal seed cells for cartilage tissue engineering. However, the epigenetic mechanism underlying chondrogenesis in DPSCs remains elusive. Herein, it is demonstrated that KDM3A and G9A, an antagonistic pair of histone-modifying enzymes, bidirectionally regulate the chondrogenic differentiation of DPSCs by controlling SOX9 (sex-determining region Y-type high-mobility group box protein 9) degradation through lysine methylation. Transcriptomics analysis reveals that KDM3A is significantly upregulated during the chondrogenic differentiation of DPSCs. In vitro and in vivo functional analyses further indicate that KDM3A promotes chondrogenesis in DPSCs by boosting the SOX9 protein level, while G9A hinders the chondrogenic differentiation of DPSCs by reducing the SOX9 protein level. Furthermore, mechanistic studies indicate that KDM3A attenuates the ubiquitination of SOX9 by demethylating lysine (K) 68 residue, which in turn enhances SOX9 stability. Reciprocally, G9A facilitates SOX9 degradation by methylating K68 residue to increase the ubiquitination of SOX9. Meanwhile, BIX-01294 as a highly specific G9A inhibitor significantly induces the chondrogenic differentiation of DPSCs. These findings provide a theoretical basis to ameliorate the clinical use of DPSCs in cartilage tissue-engineering therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiannan Sun
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Zimeng Zhuang
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Rushui Bai
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Jie Deng
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Tianyi Xin
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Yunfan Zhang
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of OrthodonticsPeking University School and Hospital of StomatologyBeijing100081China
- National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Laboratory for Digital and Material Technology of Stomatology & Beijing Key Laboratory for Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental MaterialsBeijing100081China
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12
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Reis AC, Amaral D, Americo JA, Rebelo MF, Sousa SM. Cytogenetic characterization of the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) reveals the absence of sex heteromorphic chromosomes. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2023; 95:e20201622. [PMID: 37341265 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202320201622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) is an aggressive invasive species in South America, where it endangers native species and freshwater ecosystems, in addition to causing extensive economic losses, mainly to the hydroelectric sector. Currently, there's no efficient control method available and the invasion has progressed across the continent. Its high reproduction rate is one of the key factors of the golden mussel's high invasive potential and, recently, efforts have been done in order to understand the reproduction and the sexual features of this species. However, its cytogenetics characterization is incipient and the possible occurrence of sex-specific cytogenetic features was never investigated. In this study, we aimed to characterize the chromosomal morphometry, the distribution profile of heterochromatin, and to detect possible sex-related epigenetic marks in the golden mussel. Results revealed that the karyotypic structure is similar in both sexes and no chromosome heteromorphism was observed between males and females specimens. The data increment the cytogenetic characterization of Limnoperna fortunei and contribute for future studies that aim to further investigate its reproduction and underlying sex determination processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryane C Reis
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Departamento de Biologia, Laboratório de Genética e Biotecnologia, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, 36036-900 Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Danielle Amaral
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Juliana A Americo
- Bio Bureau Biotecnologia, Rua Aloísio Teixeira, 278, Prédio 3, sala 310, 21941-850 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Mauro F Rebelo
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Avenida Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Saulo M Sousa
- Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Departamento de Biologia, Laboratório de Genética e Biotecnologia, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, 36036-900 Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
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13
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Yao HHC, Rodriguez KF. From Enrico Sertoli to freemartinism: the many phases of the master testis-determining cell†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:866-870. [PMID: 36951956 PMCID: PMC10266947 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cells, first identified in the adult testis by Enrico Sertoli in the mid-nineteenth century, are known for their role in fostering male germ cell differentiation and production of mature sperm. It was not until the late twentieth century with the discovery of the testis-determining gene SRY that Sertoli cells' new function as the master regulator of testis formation and maleness was unveiled. Fetal Sertoli cells facilitate the establishment of seminiferous cords, induce appearance of androgen-producing Leydig cells, and cause regression of the female reproductive tracts. Originally thought be a terminally differentiated cell type, adult Sertoli cells, at least in the mouse, retain their plasticity and ability to transdifferentiate into the ovarian counterpart, granulosa cells. In this review, we capture the many phases of Sertoli cell differentiation from their fate specification in fetal life to fate maintenance in adulthood. We also introduce the discovery of a new phase of fetal Sertoli cell differentiation via autocrine/paracrine factors with the freemartin characteristics. There remains much to learn about this intriguing cell type that lay the foundation for the maleness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Humphrey Hung-Chang Yao
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Karina F Rodriguez
- Reproductive Developmental Biology Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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14
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Okashita N, Maeda R, Tachibana M. CDYL reinforces male gonadal sex determination through epigenetically repressing Wnt4 transcription in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2221499120. [PMID: 37155872 PMCID: PMC10193937 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2221499120] [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: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, male and female gonads initially develop from bipotential progenitor cells, which can differentiate into either testicular or ovarian cells. The decision to adopt a testicular or ovarian fate relies on robust genetic forces, i.e., activation of the testis-determining gene Sry, as well as a delicate balance of expression levels for pro-testis and pro-ovary factors. Recently, epigenetic regulation has been found to be a key element in activation of Sry. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which epigenetic regulation controls the expression balance of pro-testis and pro-ovary factors remains unclear. Chromodomain Y-like protein (CDYL) is a reader protein for repressive histone H3 methylation marks. We found that a subpopulation of Cdyl-deficient mice exhibited XY sex reversal. Gene expression analysis revealed that the testis-promoting gene Sox9 was downregulated in XY Cdyl-deficient gonads during the sex determination period without affecting Sry expression. Instead, we found that the ovary-promoting gene Wnt4 was derepressed in XY Cdyl-deficient gonads prior to and during the sex-determination period. Wnt4 heterozygous deficiency restored SOX9 expression in Cdyl-deficient XY gonads, indicating that derepressed Wnt4 is a cause of the repression of Sox9. We found that CDYL directly bound to the Wnt4 promoter and maintained its H3K27me3 levels during the sex-determination period. These findings indicate that CDYL reinforces male gonadal sex determination by repressing the ovary-promoting pathway in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okashita
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka565-0871, Japan
| | - Ryo Maeda
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka565-0871, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka565-0871, Japan
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15
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Wagner S, Whiteley SL, Castelli M, Patel HR, Deveson IW, Blackburn J, Holleley CE, Marshall Graves JA, Georges A. Gene expression of male pathway genes sox9 and amh during early sex differentiation in a reptile departs from the classical amniote model. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:243. [PMID: 37147622 PMCID: PMC10163765 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09334-0] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex determination is the process whereby the bipotential embryonic gonads become committed to differentiate into testes or ovaries. In genetic sex determination (GSD), the sex determining trigger is encoded by a gene on the sex chromosomes, which activates a network of downstream genes; in mammals these include SOX9, AMH and DMRT1 in the male pathway, and FOXL2 in the female pathway. Although mammalian and avian GSD systems have been well studied, few data are available for reptilian GSD systems. RESULTS We conducted an unbiased transcriptome-wide analysis of gonad development throughout differentiation in central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) embryos with GSD. We found that sex differentiation of transcriptomic profiles occurs at a very early stage, before the gonad consolidates as a body distinct from the gonad-kidney complex. The male pathway genes dmrt1 and amh and the female pathway gene foxl2 play a key role in early sex differentiation in P. vitticeps, but the central player of the mammalian male trajectory, sox9, is not differentially expressed in P. vitticeps at the bipotential stage. The most striking difference from GSD systems of other amniotes is the high expression of the male pathway genes amh and sox9 in female gonads during development. We propose that a default male trajectory progresses if not repressed by a W-linked dominant gene that tips the balance of gene expression towards the female trajectory. Further, weighted gene expression correlation network analysis revealed novel candidates for male and female sex differentiation. CONCLUSION Our data reveal that interpretation of putative mechanisms of GSD in reptiles cannot solely depend on lessons drawn from mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Wagner
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Sarah L Whiteley
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
- Australian National Wildlife Collection CSIRO, National Research Collections Australia, Crace, ACT, Australia
| | - Meghan Castelli
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
- Australian National Wildlife Collection CSIRO, National Research Collections Australia, Crace, ACT, Australia
| | - Hardip R Patel
- Genome Sciences Department. John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Ira W Deveson
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Blackburn
- Kinghorn Centre for Clinical Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Clare E Holleley
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
- Australian National Wildlife Collection CSIRO, National Research Collections Australia, Crace, ACT, Australia
| | - Jennifer A Marshall Graves
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
- School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Arthur Georges
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia.
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16
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Molecular cloning and characterization of Sirt1 and its role in the follicle of juvenile Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis). Gene 2023; 860:147211. [PMID: 36708847 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Sirt1 is a member of the Sirtuins family that regulates ovarian senescence, follicular development, and oocyte maturation in vertebrates. To understand its role in the ovary of Pelodiscus sinensis, we cloned the full-length cDNA of Ps-Sirt1 and characterized its potential function by intraperitoneally injecting agonist (resveratrol) and antagonist (EX527) in the female juvenile turtle. The full-length cDNA of Ps-Sirt1 was 2106 bp, comprising 203 bp 5'UTR, a 226 bp 3'UTR, and a 1677 bp ORF encoding 558 amino acids. The calculated molecular weight of predicted protein was 63 kDa, and the isoelectric point was 4.65. The predicted protein comprised a conserved Sir2 domain. Amino acid sequence alignment and phylogenetic analyses showed that Ps-Sirt1 was most closely related to turtles, and distantly related to fish. Expression pattern analysis showed Ps-Sirt1 was highest expressed in ovary, followed by testis, liver, heart, and brain. In the ovarian differentiation processes, Sirt1 showed significantly higher expression at embryonic stage 15 and 21. In the testis differentiation process, Sirt1 expression was downregulated at embryonic stages 15-19. Activated and inactivated Sirt1 decreased the number of primordial follicles in juvenile turtles. Bcl2, Bax, mTOR, and rpS6 expressions were up-regulated, whereas GnRH, Fshb, p50, and p65 were down-regulated after agonist treatment. The inaction of Sirt1 with antagonist up-regulated GnRH, Fshb, p65, p53, Foxo3a, Bcl2, Bax, mTOR, and rpS6, but down-regulated p50. In summary, Sirt1 might be involved in the ovarian follicle development of P. sinensis.
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17
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Yao YL, Ma XY, Wang TY, Yan JY, Chen NF, Hong JS, Liu BQ, Xu ZQ, Zhang N, Lv C, Sun X, Luan JB. A bacteriocyte symbiont determines whitefly sex ratio by regulating mitochondrial function. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112102. [PMID: 36774548 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutritional symbionts influence host reproduction, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unclear. We previously found that the bacteriocyte symbiont Hamiltonella impacts the sex ratio of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. Hamiltonella synthesizes folate by cooperation with the whitefly. Folate deficiency by Hamiltonella elimination or whitefly gene silencing distorted whitefly sex ratio, and folate supplementation restored the sex ratio. Hamiltonella deficiency or gene silencing altered histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) level, which was restored by folate supplementation. Genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation-seq analysis of H3K9me3 indicated mitochondrial dysfunction in symbiont-deficient whiteflies. Hamiltonella deficiency compromised mitochondrial quality of whitefly ovaries. Repressing ovary mitochondrial function led to distorted whitefly sex ratio. These findings indicate that the symbiont-derived folate regulates host histone methylation modifications, which thereby impacts ovary mitochondrial function, and finally determines host sex ratio. Our study suggests that a nutritional symbiont can regulate animal reproduction in a way that differs from reproductive manipulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lin Yao
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Xin-Yu Ma
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Tian-Yu Wang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Jin-Yang Yan
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Nai-Fei Chen
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Ji-Sheng Hong
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Bing-Qi Liu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Zi-Qi Xu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Nuo Zhang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Chao Lv
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Xiang Sun
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Jun-Bo Luan
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Economic and Applied Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China.
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18
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Fan L, Sudeep K, Qi J. Histone Demethylase KDM3 (JMJD1) in Transcriptional Regulation and Cancer Progression. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1433:69-86. [PMID: 37751136 PMCID: PMC11052651 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-38176-8_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Methylation of histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) is a repressive histone mark and associated with inhibition of gene expression. KDM3 is a subfamily of the JmjC histone demethylases. It specifically removes the mono- or di-methyl marks from H3K9 and thus contributes to activation of gene expression. KDM3 subfamily includes three members: KDM3A, KDM3B and KDM3C. As KDM3A (also known as JMJD1A or JHDM2A) is the best studied, this chapter will mainly focus on the role of KDM3A-mediated gene regulation in the biology of normal and cancer cells. Knockout mouse studies have revealed that KDM3A plays a role in the physiological processes such as spermatogenesis, metabolism and sex determination. KDM3A is upregulated in several types of cancers and has been shown to promote cancer development, progression and metastasis. KDM3A can enhance the expression or activity of transcription factors through its histone demethylase activity, thereby altering the transcriptional program and promoting cancer cell proliferation and survival. We conclude that KDM3A may serve as a promising target for anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Khadka Sudeep
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Jianfei Qi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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Imaimatsu K, Uchida A, Hiramatsu R, Kanai Y. Gonadal Sex Differentiation and Ovarian Organogenesis along the Cortical-Medullary Axis in Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13373. [PMID: 36362161 PMCID: PMC9655463 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In most mammals, the sex of the gonads is based on the fate of the supporting cell lineages, which arises from the proliferation of coelomic epithelium (CE) that surfaces on the bipotential genital ridge in both XY and XX embryos. Recent genetic studies and single-cell transcriptome analyses in mice have revealed the cellular and molecular events in the two-wave proliferation of the CE that produce the supporting cells. This proliferation contributes to the formation of the primary sex cords in the medullary region of both the testis and the ovary at the early phase of gonadal sex differentiation, as well as to that of the secondary sex cords in the cortical region of the ovary at the perinatal stage. To support gametogenesis, the testis forms seminiferous tubules in the medullary region, whereas the ovary forms follicles mainly in the cortical region. The medullary region in the ovary exhibits morphological and functional diversity among mammalian species that ranges from ovary-like to testis-like characteristics. This review focuses on the mechanism of gonadal sex differentiation along the cortical-medullary axis and compares the features of the cortical and medullary regions of the ovary in mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenya Imaimatsu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
| | - Aya Uchida
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
- RIKEN BioResouce Research Center, Tsukuba 305-0074, Japan
| | - Ryuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
| | - Yoshiakira Kanai
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
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20
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Govender P, Ghai M, Okpeku M. Sex-specific DNA methylation: impact on human health and development. Mol Genet Genomics 2022; 297:1451-1466. [PMID: 35969270 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-022-01935-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Human evolution has shaped gender differences between males and females. Over the years, scientific studies have proposed that epigenetic modifications significantly influence sex-specific differences. The evolution of sex chromosomes with epigenetics as the driving force may have led to one sex being more adaptable than the other when exposed to various factors over time. Identifying and understanding sex-specific differences, particularly in DNA methylation, will help determine how each gender responds to factors, such as disease susceptibility, environmental exposure, brain development and neurodegeneration. From a medicine and health standpoint, sex-specific methylation studies have shed light on human disease severity, progression, and response to therapeutic intervention. Interesting findings in gender incongruent individuals highlight the role of genetic makeup in influencing DNA methylation differences. Sex-specific DNA methylation studies will empower the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry with more knowledge to identify biomarkers, design and develop sex bias drugs leading to better treatment in men and women based on their response to different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Govender
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa
| | - Meenu Ghai
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa.
| | - Moses Okpeku
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, South Africa
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21
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Xie Y, Wu C, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. Early Gonadal Development and Sex Determination in Mammal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147500. [PMID: 35886859 PMCID: PMC9323860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex determination is crucial for the transmission of genetic information through generations. In mammal, this process is primarily regulated by an antagonistic network of sex-related genes beginning in embryonic development and continuing throughout life. Nonetheless, abnormal expression of these sex-related genes will lead to reproductive organ and germline abnormalities, resulting in disorders of sex development (DSD) and infertility. On the other hand, it is possible to predetermine the sex of animal offspring by artificially regulating sex-related gene expression, a recent research hotspot. In this paper, we reviewed recent research that has improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development of the gonad and primordial germ cells (PGCs), progenitors of the germline, to provide new directions for the treatment of DSD and infertility, both of which involve manipulating the sex ratio of livestock offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshe Xie
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Changhua Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.); (Z.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, China
- Correspondence: (Z.W.); (L.H.)
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22
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Bélanger C, Cardinal T, Leduc E, Viger RS, Pilon N. CHARGE syndrome-associated proteins FAM172A and CHD7 influence male sex determination and differentiation through transcriptional and alternative splicing mechanisms. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22176. [PMID: 35129866 PMCID: PMC9304217 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100837rr] [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: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
To gain further insight into chromatin‐mediated regulation of mammalian sex determination, we analyzed the role of the CHARGE syndrome‐associated proteins FAM172A and CHD7. This study is based on our prior discoveries that a subset of corresponding mutant mice display complete male‐to‐female sex reversal, and that both of these proteins regulate co‐transcriptional alternative splicing in neural crest cells. Here, we report that FAM172A and CHD7 are present in the developing gonads when sex determination normally occurs in mice. The interactome of FAM172A in pre‐Sertoli cells again suggests a role at the chromatin‐spliceosome interface, like in neural crest cells. Accordingly, analysis of Fam172a‐mutant pre‐Sertoli cells revealed transcriptional and splicing dysregulation of hundreds of genes. Many of these genes are similarly affected in Chd7‐mutant pre‐Sertoli cells, including several known key regulators of sex determination and subsequent formation of testis cords. Among them, we notably identified Sry as a direct transcriptional target and WNT pathway‐associated Lef1 and Tcf7l2 as direct splicing targets. The identified molecular defects are also associated with the abnormal morphology of seminiferous tubules in mutant postnatal testes. Altogether, our results thus identify FAM172A and CHD7 as new players in the regulation of male sex determination and differentiation in mice, and further highlight the importance of chromatin‐mediated regulatory mechanisms in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Bélanger
- Molecular Genetics of Development Laboratory, Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre d'Excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines - Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tatiana Cardinal
- Molecular Genetics of Development Laboratory, Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre d'Excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines - Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Leduc
- Molecular Genetics of Development Laboratory, Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre d'Excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines - Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert S Viger
- Reproduction, Mother and Child Health, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Nicolas Pilon
- Molecular Genetics of Development Laboratory, Département des Sciences Biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre d'Excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines - Fondation Courtois (CERMO-FC), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Département de pédiatrie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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23
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Coker SJ, Smith-Díaz CC, Dyson RM, Vissers MCM, Berry MJ. The Epigenetic Role of Vitamin C in Neurodevelopment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031208. [PMID: 35163133 PMCID: PMC8836017 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The maternal diet during pregnancy is a key determinant of offspring health. Early studies have linked poor maternal nutrition during gestation with a propensity for the development of chronic conditions in offspring. These conditions include cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and even compromised mental health. While multiple factors may contribute to these outcomes, disturbed epigenetic programming during early development is one potential biological mechanism. The epigenome is programmed primarily in utero, and during this time, the developing fetus is highly susceptible to environmental factors such as nutritional insults. During neurodevelopment, epigenetic programming coordinates the formation of primitive central nervous system structures, neurogenesis, and neuroplasticity. Dysregulated epigenetic programming has been implicated in the aetiology of several neurodevelopmental disorders such as Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome. Accordingly, there is great interest in determining how maternal nutrient availability in pregnancy might affect the epigenetic status of offspring, and how such influences may present phenotypically. In recent years, a number of epigenetic enzymes that are active during embryonic development have been found to require vitamin C as a cofactor. These enzymes include the ten-eleven translocation methylcytosine dioxygenases (TETs) and the Jumonji C domain-containing histone lysine demethylases that catalyse the oxidative removal of methyl groups on cytosines and histone lysine residues, respectively. These enzymes are integral to epigenetic regulation and have fundamental roles in cellular differentiation, the maintenance of pluripotency and development. The dependence of these enzymes on vitamin C for optimal catalytic activity illustrates a potentially critical contribution of the nutrient during mammalian development. These insights also highlight a potential risk associated with vitamin C insufficiency during pregnancy. The link between vitamin C insufficiency and development is particularly apparent in the context of neurodevelopment and high vitamin C concentrations in the brain are indicative of important functional requirements in this organ. Accordingly, this review considers the evidence for the potential impact of maternal vitamin C status on neurodevelopmental epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharna J. Coker
- Perinatal & Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
| | - Carlos C. Smith-Díaz
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand;
| | - Rebecca M. Dyson
- Perinatal & Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
| | - Margreet C. M. Vissers
- Centre for Free Radical Research, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand;
- Correspondence: (M.C.M.V.); (M.J.B.)
| | - Mary J. Berry
- Perinatal & Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics & Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
- Correspondence: (M.C.M.V.); (M.J.B.)
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24
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Jeon HY, Ryu H, Pornour M, Qi J. Histone demethylase JMJD1A in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:392-396. [PMID: 35020958 PMCID: PMC8930527 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
JMJD1A (also called lysine demethylase 3A [KDM3A]) belongs to the Jumonji C family of histone demethylases. It specifically removes the repressive mono- or di-methyl marks from histone H3 at lysine 9 and thus contributes to the activation of gene transcription. JMJD1A plays a key role in a variety of biological processes such as spermatogenesis, metabolism, sex determination, and stem cell activity. JMJD1A is upregulated in various types of cancers and can promote cancer development, progression, and therapeutic resistance. JMJD1A can epigenetically regulate the expression or activity of transcription factors such as c-Myc, androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptor (ER), β-catenin, and so on. Expression and activity of JMJD1A in cancer cells can be regulated at transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels. Targeting JMJD1A may repress the oncogenic transcription factors as a potential anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Young Jeon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Hyunju Ryu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Majid Pornour
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jianfei Qi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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25
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Histone Modifications in Neurological Disorders. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1382:95-107. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-05460-0_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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26
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Inagaki S. Silencing and anti-silencing mechanisms that shape the epigenome in plants. Genes Genet Syst 2021; 96:217-228. [PMID: 34719532 DOI: 10.1266/ggs.21-00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenome information mediates genome function and maintenance by regulating gene expression and chromatin organization. Because the epigenome pattern can change in response to internal and external environments, it may underlie an adaptive genome response that modulates phenotypes during development and in changing environments. Here I summarize recent progress in our understanding of how epigenome patterns are shaped and modulated by concerted actions of silencing and anti-silencing factors mainly in Arabidopsis thaliana. I discuss the dynamic nature of epigenome regulation, which is realized by cooperation and counteraction among silencing and anti-silencing factors, and how the dynamic epigenome mediates robust and plastic responses of plants to fluctuating environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soichi Inagaki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo.,PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency
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27
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Comparative transcriptomic analysis reveals the gonadal development-related gene response to environmental temperature in Mauremys mutica. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2021; 40:100925. [PMID: 34689019 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2021.100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The Asian yellow pond turtle (Mauremys mutica) displays temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD), in which incubation temperature during embryonic development determines the sexual fate of the individual. However, the mechanism of the sex determination/differentiation of Mauremys mutica remains a mystery. Here, we first analyzed the temperature-specific gonadal transcriptomes of Mauremys mutica prior to gonad formation and gonads during the thermosensitive period. We uncovered a list of candidates that respond to temperature stimuli enriched in several categories, such as heat shock protein family members dnajb6a, dnaja4, hspa8 and hsp90aa1, temperature sensor genes mmp17 and mmp28, and putative novel temperature-responsive genes tmco6, gria3 and eif3f. Notably, striking differences were identified in the expression profiles of genes underlying sexual development, such as tex15, insr, igf1r, cirbp, esr1, dmrt2 and Serpinh1. Moreover, we analyzed the similarity and divergence of the timecourse of gene expression among Mauremys mutica and two other reported TSD turtles (Trachemys scripta and Chrysemys picta). The shared genes revealed the common gonad-specific regulatory mechanisms existing in these three TSD turtles that initiate their sexual development. Therefore, our findings could provide basic data to elucidate the mechanisms of sex determination/differentiation of M. mutica, even contributing to further understanding of these mechanisms in other TSD turtles.
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28
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Qin Z, Li Z, Yang S, Wang F, Gao T, Tao W, Zhou L, Wang D, Sun L. Genome-wide identification, evolution of histone lysine demethylases (KDM) genes and their expression during gonadal development in Nile tilapia. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 257:110674. [PMID: 34624518 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2021.110674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Histone lysine demethylases (KDM) are responsible for histone demethylation and are involved in gene expression regulation. Previous studies have shown that histone lysine demethylation plays an important role in gonadal development of vertebrates. The KDM family consists of eight subfamilies, i.e., kdm1, kdm2, kdm3, kdm4, kdm5, kdm6, kdm7 and JmjC-only subfamily. In this study, 13 to 63 KDM genes in 23 representative species were identified based on the available version of genome assembly. Phylogenetic relationships, domain architecture, and synteny of these genes were comprehensively analyzed and the results suggested KDM genes probably originated from the early diverging metazoan and significantly expanded in vertebrates with multiple whole genome duplication, especially in the third-round whole genome duplication (3R-WGD) and polyploidization of teleosts. The subfamilies of kdm2, kdm3, kdm4, kdm5, kdm6 and kdm7 were duplicated with 1R-2R events, and duplicates of kdm2a, kdm4a, kdm5b and kdm6b were resulted from 3R-WGD. Based on transcriptome data, the KDM genes were found to be dominantly expressed in the ovary and testis. More than 80% of KDM genes displayed sexual dimorphic expression, with 15 genes dominantly expressed in ovaries, and 12 genes dominantly expressed in testes. Importantly, from transcriptome data, qRT-PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization during sex reversal, genes with higher expression in ovary than testis, such as kdm1b and two JmjC-only subfamily members hspbap1 and riox1, were downregulated, while other genes, such as kdm3c, kdm5bb, kdm6ba, kdm6bb and kdm7b, with higher expression in testis than ovary, were upregulated in ovotestis, indicating these genes play critical roles in the gonadal development and sex reversal. This study provided new insights into the evolution of the KDM genes and a fundamental clue for understanding their important roles in sex differentiation and gonadal development in teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuliang Qin
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Shuangyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Feilong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Tian Gao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Wenjing Tao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Linyan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China
| | - Lina Sun
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, 400715 Chongqing, PR China.
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29
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Okashita N, Tachibana M. Transcriptional Regulation of the Y-Linked Mammalian Testis-Determining Gene SRY. Sex Dev 2021; 15:351-359. [PMID: 34583357 DOI: 10.1159/000519217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian male sex differentiation is triggered during embryogenesis by the activation of the Y-linked testis-determining gene SRY. Since insufficient or delayed expression of SRY results in XY gonadal sex reversal, accurate regulation of SRY is critical for male development in XY animals. In humans, dysregulation of SRY may cause disorders of sex development. Mouse Sry is the most intensively studied mammalian model of sex determination. Sry expression is controlled in a spatially and temporally stringent manner. Several transcription factors play a key role in sex determination as trans-acting factors for Sry expression. In addition, recent studies have shown that several epigenetic modifications of Sry are involved in sex determination as cis-acting factors for Sry expression. Herein, we review the current understanding of transcription factor- and epigenetic modifier-mediated regulation of SRY/Sry expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoki Okashita
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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30
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Gómez-Redondo I, Planells B, Navarrete P, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Role of Alternative Splicing in Sex Determination in Vertebrates. Sex Dev 2021; 15:381-391. [PMID: 34583366 DOI: 10.1159/000519218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During the process of sex determination, a germ-cell-containing undifferentiated gonad is converted into either a male or a female reproductive organ. Both the composition of sex chromosomes and the environment determine sex in vertebrates. It is assumed that transcription level regulation drives this cascade of mechanisms; however, transcription factors can alter gene expression beyond transcription initiation by controlling pre-mRNA splicing and thereby mRNA isoform production. Using the key time window in sex determination and gonad development in mice, it has been reported that new non-transcriptional events, such as alternative splicing, could play a key role in sex determination in mammals. We know the role of key regulatory factors, like WT1(+/-KTS) or FGFR2(b/c) in pre-mRNA splicing and sex determination, indicating that important steps in the vertebrate sex determination process probably operate at a post-transcriptional level. Here, we discuss the role of pre-mRNA splicing regulators in sex determination in vertebrates, focusing on the new RNA-seq data reported from mice fetal gonadal transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamín Planells
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain.,School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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31
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Renn SC, Hurd PL. Epigenetic Regulation and Environmental Sex Determination in Cichlid Fishes. Sex Dev 2021; 15:93-107. [PMID: 34433170 PMCID: PMC8440468 DOI: 10.1159/000517197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Studying environmental sex determination (ESD) in cichlids provides a phylogenetic and comparative approach to understand the evolution of the underlying mechanisms, their impact on the evolution of the overlying systems, and the neuroethology of life history strategies. Natural selection normally favors parents who invest equally in the development of male and female offspring, but evolution may favor deviations from this 50:50 ratio when environmental conditions produce an advantage for doing so. Many species of cichlids demonstrate ESD in response to water chemistry (temperature, pH, and oxygen concentration). The relative strengths of and the exact interactions between these factors vary between congeners, demonstrating genetic variation in sensitivity. The presence of sizable proportions of the less common sex towards the environmental extremes in most species strongly suggests the presence of some genetic sex-determining loci acting in parallel with the ESD factors. Sex determination and differentiation in these species does not seem to result in the organization of a final and irreversible sexual fate, so much as a life-long ongoing battle between competing male- and female-determining genetic and hormonal networks governed by epigenetic factors. We discuss what is and is not known about the epigenetic mechanism behind the differentiation of both gonads and sex differences in the brain. Beyond the well-studied tilapia species, the 2 best-studied dwarf cichlid systems showing ESD are the South American genus Apistogramma and the West African genus Pelvicachromis. Both species demonstrate male morphs with alternative reproductive tactics. We discuss the further neuroethology opportunities such systems provide to the study of epigenetics of alternative life history strategies and other behavioral variation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter L Hurd
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, CA
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, CA
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32
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Zhu Z, Wu X, Li Q, Zhang J, Yu S, Shen Q, Zhou Z, Pan Q, Yue W, Qin D, Zhang Y, Zhao W, Zhang R, Peng S, Li N, Zhang S, Lei A, Miao YL, Liu Z, Chen X, Wang H, Liao M, Hua J. Histone demethylase complexes KDM3A and KDM3B cooperate with OCT4/SOX2 to define a pluripotency gene regulatory network. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21664. [PMID: 34042215 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100230r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The pluripotency gene regulatory network of porcine induced pluripotent stem cells(piPSCs), especially in epigenetics, remains elusive. To determine the biological function of epigenetics, we cultured piPSCs in different culture conditions. We found that activation of pluripotent gene- and pluripotency-related pathways requires the erasure of H3K9 methylation modification which was further influenced by mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) served feeder. By dissecting the dynamic change of H3K9 methylation during loss of pluripotency, we demonstrated that the H3K9 demethylases KDM3A and KDM3B regulated global H3K9me2/me3 level and that their co-depletion led to the collapse of the pluripotency gene regulatory network. Immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry (IP-MS) provided evidence that KDM3A and KDM3B formed a complex to perform H3K9 demethylation. The genome-wide regulation analysis revealed that OCT4 (O) and SOX2 (S), the core pluripotency transcriptional activators, maintained the pluripotent state of piPSCs depending on the H3K9 hypomethylation. Further investigation revealed that O/S cooperating with histone demethylase complex containing KDM3A and KDM3B promoted pluripotency genes expression to maintain the pluripotent state of piPSCs. Together, these data offer a unique insight into the epigenetic pluripotency network of piPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenshuo Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qun Li
- College of Life Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Juqing Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shuai Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qiaoyan Shen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Zhe Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Qin Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wei Yue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Dezhe Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Wenxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Sha Peng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Na Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Shiqiang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Anmin Lei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yi-Liang Miao
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhonghua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Cellular and Genetic Engineering of Heilongjiang Province, College of Life Science, North-East Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Xingqi Chen
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Huayan Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Mingzhi Liao
- College of Life Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Jinlian Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shaanxi Centre of Stem Cells Engineering & Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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33
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Yoshino T, Suzuki T, Nagamatsu G, Yabukami H, Ikegaya M, Kishima M, Kita H, Imamura T, Nakashima K, Nishinakamura R, Tachibana M, Inoue M, Shima Y, Morohashi KI, Hayashi K. Generation of ovarian follicles from mouse pluripotent stem cells. Science 2021; 373:373/6552/eabe0237. [PMID: 34437124 DOI: 10.1126/science.abe0237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Oocytes mature in a specialized fluid-filled sac, the ovarian follicle, which provides signals needed for meiosis and germ cell growth. Methods have been developed to generate functional oocytes from pluripotent stem cell-derived primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) when placed in culture with embryonic ovarian somatic cells. In this study, we developed culture conditions to recreate the stepwise differentiation process from pluripotent cells to fetal ovarian somatic cell-like cells (FOSLCs). When FOSLCs were aggregated with PGCLCs derived from mouse embryonic stem cells, the PGCLCs entered meiosis to generate functional oocytes capable of fertilization and development to live offspring. Generating functional mouse oocytes in a reconstituted ovarian environment provides a method for in vitro oocyte production and follicle generation for a better understanding of mammalian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yoshino
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takahiro Suzuki
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan.,Functional Genomics, Graduate School of Medical Life Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Go Nagamatsu
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Haruka Yabukami
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Mika Ikegaya
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Mami Kishima
- Laboratory for Cellular Function Conversion Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa 230-0045, Japan
| | - Haruka Kita
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Takuya Imamura
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.,RNA Biology and Epigenomics Team/LMCP, Program of Biomedical Science, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima City, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan
| | - Kinichi Nakashima
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Nishinakamura
- Department of Kidney Development, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Miki Inoue
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yuichi Shima
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Systems Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Anatomy, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki City, 701-0192 Okayama Prefecture, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Systems Life Sciences, Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City 812-8582, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
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34
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Piferrer F. Epigenetic mechanisms in sex determination and in the evolutionary transitions between sexual systems. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200110. [PMID: 34247505 PMCID: PMC8273503 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis that epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression regulation have two main roles in vertebrate sex is presented. First, and within a given generation, by contributing to the acquisition and maintenance of (i) the male or female function once during the lifetime in individuals of gonochoristic species; and (ii) the male and female function in the same individual, either at the same time in simultaneous hermaphrodites, or first as one sex and then as the other in sequential hermaphrodites. Second, if environmental conditions change, epigenetic mechanisms may have also a role across generations, by providing the necessary phenotypic plasticity to facilitate the transition: (i) from one sexual system to another, or (ii) from one sex-determining mechanism to another. Furthermore, if the environmental change lasts enough time, epimutations could facilitate assimilation into genetic changes that stabilize the new sexual system or sex-determining mechanism. Examples supporting these assertions are presented, caveats or difficulties and knowledge gaps identified, and possible ways to test this hypothesis suggested. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Challenging the paradigm in sex chromosome evolution: empirical and theoretical insights with a focus on vertebrates (Part I)’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesc Piferrer
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Passeig Marítim, 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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35
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Weber C, Capel B. Sex determination without sex chromosomes. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200109. [PMID: 34247500 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With or without sex chromosomes, sex determination is a synthesis of many molecular events that drives a community of cells towards a coordinated tissue fate. In this review, we will consider how a sex determination pathway can be engaged and stabilized without an inherited genetic determinant. In many reptilian species, no sex chromosomes have been identified, yet a conserved network of gene expression is initiated. Recent studies propose that epigenetic regulation mediates the effects of temperature on these genes through dynamic post-transcriptional, post-translational and metabolic pathways. It is likely that there is no singular regulator of sex determination, but rather an accumulation of molecular events that shift the scales towards one fate over another until a threshold is reached sufficient to maintain and stabilize one pathway and repress the alternative pathway. Investigations into the mechanism underlying sex determination without sex chromosomes should focus on cellular processes that are frequently activated by multiple stimuli or can synthesize multiple inputs and drive a coordinated response. This article is part of the theme issue 'Challenging the paradigm in sex chromosome evolution: empirical and theoretical insights with a focus on vertebrates (Part I)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceri Weber
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, 456 Nanaline Duke, 307 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Blanche Capel
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, 456 Nanaline Duke, 307 Research Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Teng J, Zhao Y, Chen HJ, Xue LY, Ji XS. Global expression response of genes in sex-undifferentiated Nile tilapia gonads after exposure to trace letrozole. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 217:112255. [PMID: 33915448 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The aromatase inhibitor letrozole can be found in rivers, effluents, and even drinking water. Studies have demonstrated that letrozole affects various metabolic pathways and may cause reproductive toxicity, especially in fish exposed during development. However, studies on the effect of a low concentration of letrozole at the whole-gonad transcriptomic level in the early stage of fish sexual development have not been investigated. The aim of our study was to explore the potential effects of a low concentration of letrozole on the gonad transcriptome of Nile tilapia at an early stage of sexual development. In this study, 9 dpf (days postfertilization) Nile tilapia were exposed to trace letrozole for 12 days. Letrozole exposure from 9 dpf to 21 dpf persistently altered phenotypic sex development and induced the male-biased sex ratio. The transcriptome results showed that 1173 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were present in the female control vs 1.5 μg/L letrozole-treated female comparison group and that 1576 DEGs were present in the 1.5 μg/L letrozole-treated female vs male control comparison group. Differentially expressed gene enrichment analysis revealed several crucial pathways, including the drug metabolism-cytochrome P450 pathway, the ErbB-PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, and the calcium signalling pathway. Further analysis of these identified DEGs indicated that some key genes correlated with metabolism and epigenetic regulation were significantly affected by letrozole, such as UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (Ugt), glutathione S-transferase omega-1 (Gsto1), lysine-specific demethylase 6bb (Kdm6bb, original name is Kdm6a), jumonji and AT-rich interaction domain containing 2 (Jarid2b, original name is Jarid2), growth arrest and DNA damage inducible gamma (Gadd45g), and chromobox protein 7 (Cbx7). The qRT-PCR validation results for twelve DEGs showed that the Pearson's correlation of the log10fold change values between the qPCR and RNA-Seq results was 0.90, indicating the accuracy and reliability of the RNA-Seq results. Our study is the first to report the effect of letrozole on the transcriptome of gonads from fish during early-stage sexual development. These findings will be useful for understanding the toxic effects and molecular mechanisms of letrozole exposure at the early stage of gonad development on the sexual development of aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Teng
- College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Hong Ju Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China
| | - Liang Yi Xue
- College of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiang Shan Ji
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong, China.
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37
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Merchant-Larios H, Díaz-Hernández V, Cortez D. Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination in Turtles. Sex Dev 2021; 15:38-46. [PMID: 34167126 DOI: 10.1159/000515296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery in mammals that fetal testes are required in order to develop the male phenotype inspired research efforts to elucidate the mechanisms underlying gonadal sex determination and differentiation in vertebrates. A pioneer work in 1966 that demonstrated the influence of incubation temperature on sexual phenotype in some reptilian species triggered great interest in the environment's role as a modulator of plasticity in sex determination. Several chelonian species have been used as animal models to test hypotheses concerning the mechanisms involved in temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). This brief review intends to outline the history of scientific efforts that corroborate our current understanding of the state-of-the-art in TSD using chelonian species as a reference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horacio Merchant-Larios
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Verónica Díaz-Hernández
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Embriología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico city, Mexico
| | - Diego Cortez
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
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38
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Ibba A, Del Pistoia M, Balsamo A, Baronio F, Capalbo D, Russo G, DE Sanctis L, Bizzarri C. Differences of sex development in the newborn: from clinical scenario to molecular diagnosis. Minerva Pediatr (Torino) 2021; 73:606-620. [PMID: 34152117 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5276.21.06512-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Differences/disorders of sex development (DSD) are defined as a group of congenital conditions in which the development of chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex is atypical. The incidence of DSD is 1:4500 births. The current classification divides DSDs into 3 categories according to chromosomal sex: 46,XX DSD, 46,XY DSD and sex chromosome DSD. DSD phenotypes can be concordant with the genotype (apparently normal external genitalia associated with gonadal dysgenesis), or can range from simply hypospadias to completely masculinised or feminised genitalia with a discordant karyotype. Numerous genes implicated in genital development have been reported. The search of genetic variants represents a central element of the extended investigation, as an improved knowledge of the genetic aetiology helps the immediate and long-term management of children with DSDs, in term of sex of rearing, hormone therapy, surgery, fertility and cancer risk. This review aims to assess the current role of molecular diagnosis in DSD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Ibba
- Pediatric Endocrine Unit and Neonatal Screening Centre, Pediatric Hospital Microcitemico A. Cao, ARNAS Brotzu, Cagliari, Italy -
| | - Marta Del Pistoia
- Division of Neonatology and NICU, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Santa Chiara University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Balsamo
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Baronio
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, S.Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Donatella Capalbo
- Department of Mother and Child, Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, University Hospital Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni Russo
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Scientific Institute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa DE Sanctis
- Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Carla Bizzarri
- Unit of Endocrinology, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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39
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Xiong W, Shen C, Wang Z. The molecular mechanisms underlying acrosome biogenesis elucidated by gene-manipulated mice. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:789-807. [PMID: 34131698 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual reproduction requires the fusion of two gametes in a multistep and multifactorial process termed fertilization. One of the main steps that ensures successful fertilization is acrosome reaction. The acrosome, a special kind of organelle with a cap-like structure that covers the anterior portion of sperm head, plays a key role in the process. Acrosome biogenesis begins with the initial stage of spermatid development, and it is typically divided into four successive phases: the Golgi phase, cap phase, acrosome phase, and maturation phase. The run smoothly of above processes needs an active and specific coordination between the all kinds of organelles (endoplasmic reticulum, trans-golgi network and nucleus) and cytoplasmic structures (acroplaxome and manchette). During the past two decades, an increasingly genes have been discovered to be involved in modulating acrosome formation. Most of these proteins interact with each other and show a complicated molecular regulatory mechanism to facilitate the occurrence of this event. This Review focuses on the progresses of studying acrosome biogenesis using gene-manipulated mice and highlights an emerging molecular basis of mammalian acrosome formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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40
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Lai F, Cheng Y, Zou J, Wang H, Zhu W, Wang X, Cheng H, Zhou R. Identification of Histone Modifications Reveals a Role of H2b Monoubiquitination in Transcriptional Regulation of dmrt1 in Monopterus albus. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2009-2020. [PMID: 34131402 PMCID: PMC8193266 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.59347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadal trans-differentiation from ovary to testis occurs in a same individual, suggesting a role of epigenetic regulation. However, histone modifications concerning the sex reversal process remain elusive. We analyzed histone modifications using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) technology was used to test chromatin immunoprecipitation of gonads. Western blot analysis was performed to analyze protein expression. Immunofluorescence analysis was conducted to localize proteins in gonadal tissues. Here, we report a developmental atlas of histone modifications in the gonadal differentiation, including acetylation, methylation, and ubiquitination. We provided a detail distribution map of these modification sites including novel histone modifications along histones H2a, H2b, H3, and H4, and revealed their relationship with types of gonadal differentiation. We then determined a testis-enriched histone modification site, H2b monoubiquitination at K120, and its association with spermatogenesis. ChIP-seq demonstrated that the modification was highly enriched in the male sex-determining gene dmrt1 (doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 1), in particular, in its exon regions, suggesting its role in transcriptional regulation of dmrt1 in testis. Together, these data not only provide a new resource for epigenetic study in gonadal development, but also define an association of histone modifications with gonadal differentiation from ovary to testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengling Lai
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yibin Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Juan Zou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wang Zhu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Hanhua Cheng
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
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41
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Sánchez JM, Gómez-Redondo I, Browne JA, Planells B, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Lonergan P. MicroRNAs in amniotic fluid and maternal blood plasma associated with sex determination and early gonad differentiation in cattle†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:345-358. [PMID: 33889937 PMCID: PMC8335352 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We hypothesized that sexually dimorphic differences exist in the expression of miRNAs in amniotic fluid (AF) and maternal blood plasma (MP) in association with the process of sex determination and gonad differentiation in cattle. Amniotic fluid and MP were collected from six pregnant heifers (three carrying a single male and three a single female embryo) following slaughter on Day 39 postinsemination, coinciding with the peak of SRY expression. Samples (six AF and six MP) were profiled using an miRNA Serum/Plasma Focus PCR Panel. Differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were identified in AF (n = 5) and associated MP (n = 56) of male vs. female embryos (P < 0.05). Functional analysis showed that inflammatory and immune response were among the 13 biological processes enriched by miRNAs DE in MP in the male group (FDR < 0.05), suggesting that these sex-dependent DE miRNAs may be implicated in modulating the receptivity of the dam to a male embryo. Further, we compared the downstream targets of the sex-dependent DE miRNAs detected in MP with genes previously identified as DE in male vs. female genital ridges. The analyses revealed potential targets that might be important during this developmental stage such as SHROOM2, DDX3Y, SOX9, SRY, PPP1CB, JARID2, USP9X, KDM6A, and EIF2S3. Results from this study highlight novel aspects of sex determination and embryo–maternal communication in cattle such as the potential role of miRNAs in gonad development as well as in the modulation of the receptivity of the dam to a male embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Sánchez
- Animal and Crops Sciences, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.,Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - John A Browne
- Animal and Crops Sciences, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | | | - Pat Lonergan
- Animal and Crops Sciences, School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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43
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Lysine demethylase 7a regulates murine anterior-posterior development by modulating the transcription of Hox gene cluster. Commun Biol 2020; 3:725. [PMID: 33257809 PMCID: PMC7704666 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01456-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporal and spatial colinear expression of the Hox genes determines the specification of positional identities during vertebrate development. Post-translational modifications of histones contribute to transcriptional regulation. Lysine demethylase 7A (Kdm7a) demethylates lysine 9 or 27 di-methylation of histone H3 (H3K9me2, H3K27me2) and participates in the transcriptional activation of developmental genes. However, the role of Kdm7a during mouse embryonic development remains to be elucidated. Herein, we show that Kdm7a−/− mouse exhibits an anterior homeotic transformation of the axial skeleton, including an increased number of presacral elements. Importantly, posterior Hox genes (caudally from Hox9) are specifically downregulated in the Kdm7a−/− embryo, which correlates with increased levels of H3K9me2, not H3K27me2. These observations suggest that Kdm7a controls the transcription of posterior Hox genes, likely via its demethylating activity, and thereby regulating the murine anterior-posterior development. Such epigenetic regulatory mechanisms may be harnessed for proper control of coordinate body patterning in vertebrates. Higashijima et al show that mice lacking the Kdm7a demethylase exhibits anterior homeotic transformation of the axial skeleton and downregulation of posterior Hox gene transcription and these changes are associated with increased H3K9me2 at posterior Hox loci. These findings provide insights into the epigenetic control of Hox-mediated patterning in embryogenesis.
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Cui YH, Fu A, Wang XQ, Tu BX, Chen KZ, Wang YK, Hu QG, Wang LF, Hu ZL, Pan PH, Li F, Bi FF, Li CQ. Hippocampal LASP1 ameliorates chronic stress-mediated behavioral responses in a mouse model of unpredictable chronic mild stress. Neuropharmacology 2020; 184:108410. [PMID: 33242526 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Substantial evidence has revealed that abnormalities in synaptic plasticity play important roles during the process of depression. LASP1 (LIM and SH3 domain protein 1), a member of actin-binding proteins, has been shown to be associated with the regulation of synaptic plasticity. However, the role of LASP1 in the regulation of mood is still unclear. Here, using an unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) paradigm, we found that the mRNA and protein levels of LASP1 were decreased in the hippocampus of stressed mice and that UCMS-induced down-regulation of LASP1 was abolished by chronic administration of fluoxetine. Adenosine-associated virus-mediated hippocampal LASP1 overexpression alleviated the UCMS-induced behavioral results of forced swimming test and sucrose preference test in stressed mice. It also restored the dendritic spine density, elevated the levels of AKT (a serine/threonine protein kinase), phosphorylated-AKT, insulin-like growth factor 2, and postsynaptic density protein 95. These findings suggest that LASP1 alleviates UCMS-provoked behavioral defects, which may be mediated by an enhanced dendritic spine density and more activated AKT-dependent LASP1 signaling, pointing to the antidepressant role of LASP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Hui Cui
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China; Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ao Fu
- Clinic Medicine of 5-year Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Xue-Qin Wang
- Center for Neuroscience and behavior, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, 410219, China
| | - Bo-Xuan Tu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Kang-Zhi Chen
- Clinic Medicine of 8-year Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yi-Kai Wang
- Clinic Medicine of 8-year Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Qiong-Gui Hu
- Clinic Medicine of 8-year Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Lai-Fa Wang
- Center for Neuroscience and behavior, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, 410219, China
| | - Zhao-Lan Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Pin-Hua Pan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Fang-Fang Bi
- Department of Neurology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Chang-Qi Li
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, China.
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Nagahama Y, Chakraborty T, Paul-Prasanth B, Ohta K, Nakamura M. Sex determination, gonadal sex differentiation, and plasticity in vertebrate species. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:1237-1308. [PMID: 33180655 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00044.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A diverse array of sex determination (SD) mechanisms, encompassing environmental to genetic, have been found to exist among vertebrates, covering a spectrum from fixed SD mechanisms (mammals) to functional sex change in fishes (sequential hermaphroditic fishes). A major landmark in vertebrate SD was the discovery of the SRY gene in 1990. Since that time, many attempts to clone an SRY ortholog from nonmammalian vertebrates remained unsuccessful, until 2002, when DMY/dmrt1by was discovered as the SD gene of a small fish, medaka. Surprisingly, however, DMY/dmrt1by was found in only 2 species among more than 20 species of medaka, suggesting a large diversity of SD genes among vertebrates. Considerable progress has been made over the last 3 decades, such that it is now possible to formulate reasonable paradigms of how SD and gonadal sex differentiation may work in some model vertebrate species. This review outlines our current understanding of vertebrate SD and gonadal sex differentiation, with a focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. An impressive number of genes and factors have been discovered that play important roles in testicular and ovarian differentiation. An antagonism between the male and female pathway genes exists in gonads during both sex differentiation and, surprisingly, even as adults, suggesting that, in addition to sex-changing fishes, gonochoristic vertebrates including mice maintain some degree of gonadal sexual plasticity into adulthood. Importantly, a review of various SD mechanisms among vertebrates suggests that this is the ideal biological event that can make us understand the evolutionary conundrums underlying speciation and species diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Nagahama
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tapas Chakraborty
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan.,Karatsu Satellite of Aqua-Bioresource Innovation Center, Kyushu University, Karatsu, Japan
| | - Bindhu Paul-Prasanth
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Kohei Ohta
- Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakamura
- Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.,Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Okinawa, Japan
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46
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Li J, Yuan S, Norgard RJ, Yan F, Sun YH, Kim IK, Merrell AJ, Sela Y, Jiang Y, Bhanu NV, Garcia BA, Vonderheide RH, Blanco A, Stanger BZ. Epigenetic and Transcriptional Control of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Regulates the Tumor Immune Microenvironment in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancer Discov 2020; 11:736-753. [PMID: 33158848 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-20-0519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer care, patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) rarely respond to these treatments, a failure that is attributed to poor infiltration and activation of T cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). We performed an in vivo CRISPR screen and identified lysine demethylase 3A (KDM3A) as a potent epigenetic regulator of immunotherapy response in PDA. Mechanistically, KDM3A acts through Krueppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) and SMAD family member 4 (SMAD4) to regulate the expression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Ablation of KDM3A, KLF5, SMAD4, or EGFR in tumor cells altered the immune TME and sensitized tumors to combination immunotherapy, whereas treatment of established tumors with an EGFR inhibitor, erlotinib, prompted a dose-dependent increase in intratumoral T cells. This study defines an epigenetic-transcriptional mechanism by which tumor cells modulate their immune microenvironment and highlights the potential of EGFR inhibitors as immunotherapy sensitizers in PDA. SIGNIFICANCE: PDA remains refractory to immunotherapies. Here, we performed an in vivo CRISPR screen and identified an epigenetic-transcriptional network that regulates antitumor immunity by converging on EGFR. Pharmacologic inhibition of EGFR is sufficient to rewire the immune microenvironment. These results offer a readily accessible immunotherapy-sensitizing strategy for PDA.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyang Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Salina Yuan
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert J Norgard
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Fangxue Yan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Yu H Sun
- Center for RNA Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Il-Kyu Kim
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Allyson J Merrell
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Yogev Sela
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Yanqing Jiang
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Natarajan V Bhanu
- Penn Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Benjamin A Garcia
- Penn Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert H Vonderheide
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Institute for Immunology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrés Blanco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ben Z Stanger
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. .,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Miyawaki S, Kuroki S, Maeda R, Okashita N, Koopman P, Tachibana M. The mouse Sry locus harbors a cryptic exon that is essential for male sex determination. Science 2020; 370:121-124. [PMID: 33004521 DOI: 10.1126/science.abb6430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian sex-determining gene Sry induces male development. Since its discovery 30 years ago, Sry has been believed to be a single-exon gene. Here, we identified a cryptic second exon of mouse Sry and a corresponding two-exon type Sry (Sry-T) transcript. XY mice lacking Sry-T were sex-reversed, and ectopic expression of Sry-T in XX mice induced male development. Sry-T messenger RNA is expressed similarly to that of canonical single-exon type Sry (Sry-S), but SRY-T protein is expressed predominantly because of the absence of a degron in the C terminus of SRY-S. Sry exon2 appears to have evolved recently in mice through acquisition of a retrotransposon-derived coding sequence to replace the degron. Our findings suggest that in nature, SRY-T, not SRY-S, is the bona fide testis-determining factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Miyawaki
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kuroki
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Ryo Maeda
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Naoki Okashita
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
| | - Peter Koopman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Laboratory of Epigenome Dynamics, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan. .,Division of Epigenome Dynamics, Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-Cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan
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48
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Ning K, Shao Y, He Y, Wang F, Cui X, Liu F, Li D, Li F. Histone demethylase Jumonji domain-containing 1A inhibits proliferation and progression of gastric cancer by upregulating runt-related transcription factor 3. Cancer Sci 2020; 111:3679-3692. [PMID: 32762126 PMCID: PMC7541000 DOI: 10.1111/cas.14594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The histone demethylase Jumonji domain‐containing 1A (JMJD1A) is overexpressed in multiple cancers and promotes cancer progression. However, the role and mechanism of JMJD1A in gastric cancer (GC) remains poorly understood. Here, we found that JMJD1A could suppress GC cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. Using RNA sequencing, we identified runt‐related transcription factor 3 (RUNX3) as a novel target gene of JMJD1A. Mechanistically, we identified that JMJD1A upregulated RUNX3 through co–activating Ets‐1 and reducing the H3K9me1/2 levels at the RUNX3 promoter in GC cells. Functionally, JMJD1A inhibits the growth of GC cells in vivo, which is partially dependent on RUNX3. Moreover, JMJD1A expression was decreased in GC and low expression of JMJD1A was correlated with an aggressive phenotype and a poor prognosis in patients with GC. Importantly, JMJD1A expression was positively associated with RUNX3 expression in GC samples. These studies indicated that JMJD1A upregulates RUNX3 expression via co–activation of transcription factor Ets‐1 to inhibit proliferation of GC cells. Our findings provide new insight into the mechanism by which JMJD1A regulates RUNX3 transcription and suggest that JMJD1A and/or RUNX3 may be used as a therapeutic intervention for GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ning
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yangguang Shao
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuxin He
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xi Cui
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Furong Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology, Ministry of Education of the PRC, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Danni Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, National Health Commission of the PRC, Shenyang, China
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49
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Kuroki S, Maeda R, Yano M, Kitano S, Miyachi H, Fukuda M, Shinkai Y, Tachibana M. H3K9 Demethylases JMJD1A and JMJD1B Control Prospermatogonia to Spermatogonia Transition in Mouse Germline. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:424-438. [PMID: 32679061 PMCID: PMC7419704 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methylation is dynamically regulated by methyltransferases and demethylases. In spermatogenesis, prospermatogonia differentiate into differentiating or undifferentiated spermatogonia after birth. However, the epigenetic regulation of prospermatogonia to spermatogonia transition is largely unknown. We found that perinatal prospermatogonia have extremely low levels of di-methylated H3K9 (H3K9me2) and that H3K9 demethylases, JMJD1A and JMJD1B, catalyze H3K9me2 demethylation in perinatal prospermatogonia. Depletion of JMJD1A and JMJD1B in the embryonic germline resulted in complete loss of male germ cells after puberty, indicating that H3K9me2 demethylation is essential for male germline maintenance. JMJD1A/JMJD1B-depleted germ cells were unable to differentiate into functional spermatogonia. JMJD1 isozymes contributed to activation of several spermatogonial stem cell maintenance genes through H3K9 demethylation during the prospermatogonia to spermatogonia transition, which we propose is key for spermatogonia development. In summary, JMJD1A/JMJD1B-mediated H3K9me2 demethylation promotes prospermatogonia to differentiate into functional spermatogonia by establishing proper gene expression profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Kuroki
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ryo Maeda
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masashi Yano
- Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Satsuki Kitano
- Experimental Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Institute for Virus Research, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin, Kawara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8597, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Miyachi
- Experimental Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Institute for Virus Research, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin, Kawara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8597, Japan
| | - Mikiko Fukuda
- Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 53 Shogoin, Kawara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8597, Japan
| | - Yoichi Shinkai
- Cellular Memory Laboratory, Cluster for Pioneering Research, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Makoto Tachibana
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
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50
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Zhang AL, Tang SF, Yang Y, Li CZ, Ding XJ, Zhao H, Wang JH, Yang GH, Li J. Histone demethylase JHDM2A regulates H3K9 dimethylation in response to arsenic-induced DNA damage and repair in normal human liver cells. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:1661-1672. [PMID: 32608101 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Long-term arsenic exposure is a worldwide public health problem that causes serious harm to human health. The liver is the main target organ of arsenic toxicity; arsenic induces disruption of the DNA damage repair pathway, but its mechanisms remain unclear. In recent years, studies have found that epigenetic mechanisms play an important role in arsenic-induced lesions. In this study, we conducted experiments in vitro using normal human liver cells (L-02) to explore the mechanism by which the histone demethylase JHDM2A regulates H3K9 dimethylation (me2) in response to arsenic-induced DNA damage. Our results indicated that arsenic exposure upregulated the expression of JHDM2A, downregulated global H3K9me2 modification levels, increased the H3K9me2 levels at the promoters of base excision repair (BER) genes (N-methylpurine-DNA glycosylase [MPG], XRCC1 and poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase 1) and inhibited their expression levels, causing DNA damage in cells. In addition, we studied the effects of overexpression and inhibition of JHDM2A and found that JHDM2A can participate in the molecular mechanism of arsenic-induced DNA damage via the BER pathway, which may not be involved in the BER process because H3K9me2 levels at the promoter region of the BER genes were unchanged following JHDM2A interference. These results suggest a potential mechanism by which JHDM2A can regulate the MPG and XRCC1 genes in the process of responding to DNA damage induced by arsenic exposure and can participate in the process of DNA damage repair, which provides a scientific basis for understanding the epigenetic mechanisms and treatments for endemic arsenic poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Liu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Shun-Fang Tang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chang-Zhe Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Ding
- First Affiliated Hospital of Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jun-Hua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Guang-Hong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jun Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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