1
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Eachus H, Choi MK, Tochwin A, Kaspareit J, Ho M, Ryu S. Elevated glucocorticoid alters the developmental dynamics of hypothalamic neurogenesis in zebrafish. Commun Biol 2024; 7:416. [PMID: 38580727 PMCID: PMC10997759 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06060-5] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Exposure to excess glucocorticoid (GC) during early development is implicated in adult dysfunctions. Reduced adult hippocampal neurogenesis is a well-known consequence of exposure to early life stress or elevated GC, however the effects on neurogenesis during development and effects on other brain regions are not well understood. Using an optogenetic zebrafish model, here we analyse the effects of GC exposure on neurogenesis during development in the whole brain. We identify that the hypothalamus is a highly GC-sensitive region where elevated GC causes precocious development. This is followed by failed maturation and early decline accompanied by impaired feeding, growth, and survival. In GC-exposed animals, the developmental trajectory of hypothalamic progenitor cells is strikingly altered, potentially mediated by direct regulation of transcription factors such as rx3 by GC. Our data provide cellular and molecular level insight into GC-induced alteration of the hypothalamic developmental trajectory, a process crucial for health across the life-course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Eachus
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
- Institute of Health and Neurodevelopment & Aston Pharmacy School, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
| | - Min-Kyeung Choi
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Anna Tochwin
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Johanna Kaspareit
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - May Ho
- Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Soojin Ryu
- Living Systems Institute & Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
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2
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Henriques CM, Ferreira MG. Telomere length is an epigenetic trait - Implications for the use of telomerase-deficient organisms to model human disease. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050581. [PMID: 38441152 PMCID: PMC10941657 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050581] [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] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere length, unlike most genetic traits, is epigenetic, in the sense that it is not fully coded by the genome. Telomeres vary in length and randomly assort to the progeny leaving some individuals with longer and others with shorter telomeres. Telomerase activity counteracts this by extending telomeres in the germline and during embryogenesis but sizeable variances remain in telomere length. This effect is exacerbated by the absence of fully active telomerase. Telomerase heterozygous animals (tert+/-) have reduced telomerase activity and their telomeres fail to be elongated to wild-type average length, meaning that - with every generation - they decrease. After a given number of successive generations of telomerase-insufficient crosses, telomeres become critically short and cause organismal defects that, in humans, are known as telomere biology disorders. Importantly, these defects also occur in wild-type (tert+/+) animals derived from such tert+/- incrosses. Despite these tert+/+ animals being proficient for telomerase, they have shorter than average telomere length and, although milder, develop phenotypes that are similar to those of telomerase mutants. Here, we discuss the impact of this phenomenon on human pathologies associated with telomere length, provide a brief overview of telomere biology across species and propose specific measures for working with telomerase-deficient zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina M. Henriques
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing (CIMA) and Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), School of Medicine and Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d‘Azur, 06107 Nice, France
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3
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Morbiato E, Cattelan S, Pilastro A, Grapputo A. Sperm production is negatively associated with muscle and sperm telomere length in a species subjected to strong sperm competition. Mol Ecol 2023; 32:5812-5822. [PMID: 37792396 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17158] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Life-history theory suggests that ageing is one of the costs of reproduction. Accordingly, a higher reproductive allocation is expected to increase the deterioration of both the somatic and the germinal lines through enhanced telomere attrition. In most species, males' reproductive allocation mainly regards traits that increase mating and fertilization success, that is sexually selected traits. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that a higher investment in sexually selected traits is associated with a reduced relative telomere length (RTL) in the guppy (Poecilia reticulata), an ectotherm species characterized by strong pre- and postcopulatory sexual selection. We first measured telomere length in both the soma and the sperm over guppies' lifespan to see whether there was any variation in telomere length associated with age. Second, we investigated whether a greater investment in pre- and postcopulatory sexually selected traits is linked to shorter telomere length in both the somatic and the sperm germinal lines, and in young and old males. We found that telomeres lengthened with age in the somatic tissue, but there was no age-dependent variation in telomere length in the sperm cells. Telomere length in guppies was significantly and negatively correlated with sperm production in both tissues and life stages considered in this study. Our findings indicate that telomere length in male guppies is strongly associated with their reproductive investment (sperm production), suggesting that a trade-off between reproduction and maintenance is occurring at each stage of males' life in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Morbiato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Cattelan
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fritz Lipmann Institute - Leibniz Institute on Aging, Jena, Germany
| | - Andrea Pilastro
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandro Grapputo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
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4
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El Maï M, Bird M, Allouche A, Targen S, Şerifoğlu N, Lopes-Bastos B, Guigonis JM, Kang D, Pourcher T, Yue JX, Ferreira MG. Gut-specific telomerase expression counteracts systemic aging in telomerase-deficient zebrafish. NATURE AGING 2023; 3:567-584. [PMID: 37142828 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-023-00401-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Telomere shortening is a hallmark of aging and is counteracted by telomerase. As in humans, the zebrafish gut is one of the organs with the fastest rate of telomere decline, triggering early tissue dysfunction during normal zebrafish aging and in prematurely aged telomerase mutants. However, whether telomere-dependent aging of an individual organ, the gut, causes systemic aging is unknown. Here we show that tissue-specific telomerase expression in the gut can prevent telomere shortening and rescues premature aging of tert-/-. Induction of telomerase rescues gut senescence and low cell proliferation, while restoring tissue integrity, inflammation and age-dependent microbiota dysbiosis. Averting gut aging causes systemic beneficial impacts, rescuing aging of distant organs such as reproductive and hematopoietic systems. Conclusively, we show that gut-specific telomerase expression extends the lifespan of tert-/- by 40%, while ameliorating natural aging. Our work demonstrates that gut-specific rescue of telomerase expression leading to telomere elongation is sufficient to systemically counteract aging in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounir El Maï
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Malia Bird
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Asma Allouche
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Seniye Targen
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Naz Şerifoğlu
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Bruno Lopes-Bastos
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Jean-Marie Guigonis
- Laboratory Transporter in Imaging and Radiotherapy in Oncology, Institut des Sciences du Vivant Frederic Joliot, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Da Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Thierry Pourcher
- Laboratory Transporter in Imaging and Radiotherapy in Oncology, Institut des Sciences du Vivant Frederic Joliot, Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Jia-Xing Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), CNRS UMR7284, INSERM U1081, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal.
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5
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Wu M, Xu J, Zhang Y, Wen Z. Learning from Zebrafish Hematopoiesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1442:137-157. [PMID: 38228963 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-7471-9_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Hematopoiesis is a complex process that tightly regulates the generation, proliferation, differentiation, and maintenance of hematopoietic cells. Disruptions in hematopoiesis can lead to various diseases affecting both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic systems, such as leukemia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic granuloma. The zebrafish serves as a powerful vertebrate model for studying hematopoiesis, offering valuable insights into both hematopoietic regulation and hematopoietic diseases. In this chapter, we present a comprehensive overview of zebrafish hematopoiesis, highlighting its distinctive characteristics in hematopoietic processes. We discuss the ontogeny and modulation of both primitive and definitive hematopoiesis, as well as the microenvironment that supports hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Additionally, we explore the utility of zebrafish as a disease model and its potential in drug discovery, which not only advances our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying hematopoiesis but also facilitates the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies for hematopoietic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wu
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University and Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Model for Development and Disease of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Jin Xu
- South China University of Technology, School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yiyue Zhang
- South China University of Technology, School of Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Zilong Wen
- Southern University of Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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6
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Hernández-Silva D, Alcaraz-Pérez F, Pérez-Sánchez H, Cayuela ML. Virtual screening and zebrafish models in tandem, for drug discovery and development. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022:1-13. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2147503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David Hernández-Silva
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging Group (TCAG), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Structural Bioinformatics and High-Performance Computing Research Group (BIOHPC), Computer Engineering Department, Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisca Alcaraz-Pérez
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging Group (TCAG), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Horacio Pérez-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa Cayuela
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging Group (TCAG), Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), 30120 Murcia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), ISCIII, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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7
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Xiang Y, You Z, Huang X, Dai J, Zhang J, Nie S, Xu L, Jiang J, Xu J. Oxidative stress-induced premature senescence and aggravated denervated skeletal muscular atrophy by regulating progerin-p53 interaction. Skelet Muscle 2022; 12:19. [PMID: 35906707 PMCID: PMC9335985 DOI: 10.1186/s13395-022-00302-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progerin elevates atrophic gene expression and helps modify the nuclear membrane to cause severe muscle pathology, which is similar to muscle weakness in the elderly, to alter the development and function of the skeletal muscles. Stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS), a state of cell growth arrest owing to such stimuli as oxidation, can be caused by progerin. However, evidence for whether SIPS-induced progerin accumulation is connected to denervation-induced muscle atrophy is not sufficient. Methods Flow cytometry and a reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitors were used to assess the effect of oxidation on protein (p53), progerin, and nuclear progerin–p53 interaction in the denervated muscles of models of mice suffering from sciatic injury. Loss-of-function approach with the targeted deletion of p53 was used to assess connection among SIPS, denervated muscle atrophy, and fibrogenesis. Results The augmentation of ROS and iNOS-derived NO in the denervated muscles of models of mice suffering from sciatic injury upregulates p53 and progerin. The abnormal accumulation of progerin in the nuclear membrane as well as the activation of nuclear progerin–p53 interaction triggered premature senescence in the denervated muscle cells of mice. The p53-dependent SIPS in denervated muscles contributes to their atrophy and fibrogenesis. Conclusion Oxidative stress-triggered premature senescence via nuclear progerin–p53 interaction that promotes denervated skeletal muscular atrophy and fibrogenesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13395-022-00302-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoxian Xiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongqi You
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinying Huang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junxi Dai
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junpeng Zhang
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuqi Nie
- Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjian Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jianguang Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,NHC Key Laboratory of Hand Reconstruction, (Fudan University), Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Peripheral Nerve and Microsurgery, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Panasiak L, Kuciński M, Błaszczyk A, Ocalewicz K. Telomerase Activity in Androgenetic Rainbow Trout with Growth Deficiency and in Normally Developed Individuals. Zebrafish 2022; 19:131-136. [PMID: 35867071 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2022.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Role of telomerase in specimens with retarded growth (dwarfs) has not been thoroughly examined to date. Considering that some of the fish species show correlation between somatic growth and activity of telomerase, it has been tempting to assume that pattern of telomerase activity in specimens with retarded growth and these with normal growth rate may vary. In the present research, telomerase activity has been examined in liver, skin, and muscles in the androgenetic rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with growth deficiency and their normally developed siblings. Among the examined organs, the liver showed the highest telomerase activity in all studied fish, what may be linked to the enormous regeneration capacity of the liver tissue. Although dwarf specimens examined here displayed significantly lower body size and weight they did not exhibit any significant differences in the telomerase activity measured in liver and muscle when compared to the rainbow trout without growth deficiency. In turn, telomerase activity in skin was significantly upregulated in the normally developed androgenotes. The present study indicates that dwarfism in the androgenetic rainbow trout is neither associated with ceased telomerase activity nor its decrease throughout the ontogenetic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ligia Panasiak
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Marcin Kuciński
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Agata Błaszczyk
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Oceanography, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Konrad Ocalewicz
- Department of Marine Biology and Ecology, Institute of Oceanography, Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk, Gdynia, Poland
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9
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Ellis PS, Martins RR, Thompson EJ, Farhat A, Renshaw SA, Henriques CM. A subset of gut leukocytes has telomerase-dependent "hyper-long" telomeres and require telomerase for function in zebrafish. Immun Ageing 2022; 19:31. [PMID: 35820929 PMCID: PMC9277892 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-022-00287-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomerase, the enzyme capable of elongating telomeres, is usually restricted in human somatic cells, which contributes to progressive telomere shortening with cell-division and ageing. T and B-cells cells are somatic cells that can break this rule and can modulate telomerase expression in a homeostatic manner. Whereas it seems intuitive that an immune cell type that depends on regular proliferation outbursts for function may have evolved to modulate telomerase expression it is less obvious why others may also do so, as has been suggested for macrophages and neutrophils in some chronic inflammation disease settings. The gut has been highlighted as a key modulator of systemic ageing and is a key tissue where inflammation must be carefully controlled to prevent dysfunction. How telomerase may play a role in innate immune subtypes in the context of natural ageing in the gut, however, remains to be determined. RESULTS Using the zebrafish model, we show that subsets of gut immune cells have telomerase-dependent"hyper-long" telomeres, which we identified as being predominantly macrophages and dendritics (mpeg1.1+ and cd45+mhcII+). Notably, mpeg1.1+ macrophages have much longer telomeres in the gut than in their haematopoietic tissue of origin, suggesting that there is modulation of telomerase in these cells, in the gut. Moreover, we show that a subset of gut mpeg1.1+ cells express telomerase (tert) in young WT zebrafish, but that the relative proportion of these cells decreases with ageing. Importantly, this is accompanied by telomere shortening and DNA damage responses with ageing and a telomerase-dependent decrease in expression of autophagy and immune activation markers. Finally, these telomerase-dependent molecular alterations are accompanied by impaired phagocytosis of E. coli and increased gut permeability in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that limiting levels of telomerase lead to alterations in gut immunity, impacting on the ability to clear pathogens in vivo. These are accompanied by increased gut permeability, which, together, are likely contributors to local and systemic tissue degeneration and increased susceptibility to infection with ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pam S Ellis
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Raquel R Martins
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emily J Thompson
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Asma Farhat
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Stephen A Renshaw
- The Bateson Centre and Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Catarina M Henriques
- The Bateson Centre, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated Research Into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Healthy Lifespan Institute, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK.
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10
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Martins RR, Zamzam M, Tracey-White D, Moosajee M, Thummel R, Henriques CM, MacDonald RB. Müller Glia maintain their regenerative potential despite degeneration in the aged zebrafish retina. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13597. [PMID: 35315590 PMCID: PMC9009236 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ageing is a significant risk factor for degeneration of the retina. Müller glia cells (MG) are key for neuronal regeneration, so harnessing the regenerative capacity of MG in the retina offers great promise for the treatment of age-associated blinding conditions. Yet, the impact of ageing on MG regenerative capacity is unclear. Here, we show that the zebrafish retina undergoes telomerase-independent, age-related neurodegeneration but that this is insufficient to stimulate MG proliferation and regeneration. Instead, age-related neurodegeneration is accompanied by MG morphological aberrations and loss of vision. Mechanistically, yes-associated protein (Yap), part of the Hippo signalling, has been shown to be critical for the regenerative response in the damaged retina, and we show that Yap expression levels decline with ageing. Despite this, morphologically and molecularly altered aged MG retain the capacity to regenerate neurons after acute light damage, therefore, highlighting key differences in the MG response to high-intensity acute damage versus chronic neuronal loss in the zebrafish retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel R Martins
- The Bateson Centre, Healthy Lifespan Institute, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated research into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mazen Zamzam
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Mariya Moosajee
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK.,Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Ryan Thummel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Catarina M Henriques
- The Bateson Centre, Healthy Lifespan Institute, MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Integrated research into Musculoskeletal Ageing and Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ryan B MacDonald
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, UK
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11
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Functional Validation of Osteoporosis Genetic Findings Using Small Fish Models. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13020279. [PMID: 35205324 PMCID: PMC8872034 DOI: 10.3390/genes13020279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The advancement of human genomics has revolutionized our understanding of the genetic architecture of many skeletal diseases, including osteoporosis. However, interpreting results from human association studies remains a challenge, since index variants often reside in non-coding regions of the genome and do not possess an obvious regulatory function. To bridge the gap between genetic association and causality, a systematic functional investigation is necessary, such as the one offered by animal models. These models enable us to identify causal mechanisms, clarify the underlying biology, and apply interventions. Over the past several decades, small teleost fishes, mostly zebrafish and medaka, have emerged as powerful systems for modeling the genetics of human diseases. Due to their amenability to genetic intervention and the highly conserved genetic and physiological features, fish have become indispensable for skeletal genomic studies. The goal of this review is to summarize the evidence supporting the utility of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) for accelerating our understanding of human skeletal genomics and outlining the remaining gaps in knowledge. We provide an overview of zebrafish skeletal morphophysiology and gene homology, shedding light on the advantages of human skeletal genomic exploration and validation. Knowledge of the biology underlying osteoporosis through animal models will lead to the translation into new, better and more effective therapeutic approaches.
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12
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Reuter H, Perner B, Wahl F, Rohde L, Koch P, Groth M, Buder K, Englert C. Aging Activates the Immune System and Alters the Regenerative Capacity in the Zebrafish Heart. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030345. [PMID: 35159152 PMCID: PMC8834511 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-associated organ failure and degenerative diseases have a major impact on human health. Cardiovascular dysfunction has an increasing prevalence with age and is one of the leading causes of death. In contrast to humans, zebrafish have extraordinary regeneration capacities of complex organs including the heart. In addition, zebrafish has recently become a model organism in research on aging. Here, we have compared the ventricular transcriptome as well as the regenerative capacity after cryoinjury of old and young zebrafish hearts. We identified the immune system as activated in old ventricles and found muscle organization to deteriorate upon aging. Our data show an accumulation of immune cells, mostly macrophages, in the old zebrafish ventricle. Those immune cells not only increased in numbers but also showed morphological and behavioral changes with age. Our data further suggest that the regenerative response to cardiac injury is generally impaired and much more variable in old fish. Collagen in the wound area was already significantly enriched in old fish at 7 days post injury. Taken together, these data indicate an ‘inflammaging’-like process in the zebrafish heart and suggest a change in regenerative response in the old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Reuter
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany; (H.R.); (B.P.); (F.W.); (L.R.)
| | - Birgit Perner
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany; (H.R.); (B.P.); (F.W.); (L.R.)
- Core Facility Imaging, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Florian Wahl
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany; (H.R.); (B.P.); (F.W.); (L.R.)
| | - Luise Rohde
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany; (H.R.); (B.P.); (F.W.); (L.R.)
| | - Philipp Koch
- Core Facility Life Science Computing, 07735 Jena, Germany;
| | - Marco Groth
- Core Facility DNA Sequencing, 07745 Jena, Germany;
| | - Katrin Buder
- Core Service Histology/Pathology/EM, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany;
| | - Christoph Englert
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany; (H.R.); (B.P.); (F.W.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-3641-656042
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Zhang C, Huang R, Ma X, Chen J, Han X, Li L, Luo L, Ruan H, Huang H. The Ribosome Biogenesis Factor Ltv1 Is Essential for Digestive Organ Development and Definitive Hematopoiesis in Zebrafish. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:704730. [PMID: 34692673 PMCID: PMC8528963 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.704730] [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: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis is a fundamental activity in cells. Ribosomal dysfunction underlies a category of diseases called ribosomopathies in humans. The symptomatic characteristics of ribosomopathies often include abnormalities in craniofacial skeletons, digestive organs, and hematopoiesis. Consistently, disruptions of ribosome biogenesis in animals are deleterious to embryonic development with hypoplasia of digestive organs and/or impaired hematopoiesis. In this study, ltv1, a gene involved in the small ribosomal subunit assembly, was knocked out in zebrafish by clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs)/CRISPR associated protein 9 (Cas9) technology. The recessive lethal mutation resulted in disrupted ribosome biogenesis, and ltv1 Δ14/Δ14 embryos displayed hypoplastic craniofacial cartilage, digestive organs, and hematopoiesis. In addition, we showed that the impaired cell proliferation, instead of apoptosis, led to the defects in exocrine pancreas and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) in ltv1 Δ14/Δ14 embryos. It was reported that loss of function of genes associated with ribosome biogenesis often caused phenotypes in a P53-dependent manner. In ltv1 Δ14/Δ14 embryos, both P53 protein level and the expression of p53 target genes, Δ113p53 and p21, were upregulated. However, knockdown of p53 failed to rescue the phenotypes in ltv1 Δ14/Δ14 larvae. Taken together, our data demonstrate that LTV1 ribosome biogenesis factor (Ltv1) plays an essential role in digestive organs and hematopoiesis development in zebrafish in a P53-independent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xirui Ma
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiehui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinlu Han
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lingfei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hua Ruan
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Honghui Huang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environments and Bio-Resources of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Lam S, Hartmann N, Benfeitas R, Zhang C, Arif M, Turkez H, Uhlén M, Englert C, Knight R, Mardinoglu A. Systems Analysis Reveals Ageing-Related Perturbations in Retinoids and Sex Hormones in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1310. [PMID: 34680427 PMCID: PMC8533098 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's diseases (PD), are complex heterogeneous diseases with highly variable patient responses to treatment. Due to the growing evidence for ageing-related clinical and pathological commonalities between AD and PD, these diseases have recently been studied in tandem. In this study, we analysed transcriptomic data from AD and PD patients, and stratified these patients into three subclasses with distinct gene expression and metabolic profiles. Through integrating transcriptomic data with a genome-scale metabolic model and validating our findings by network exploration and co-analysis using a zebrafish ageing model, we identified retinoids as a key ageing-related feature in all subclasses of AD and PD. We also demonstrated that the dysregulation of androgen metabolism by three different independent mechanisms is a source of heterogeneity in AD and PD. Taken together, our work highlights the need for stratification of AD/PD patients and development of personalised and precision medicine approaches based on the detailed characterisation of these subclasses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Lam
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK;
| | - Nils Hartmann
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (N.H.); (C.E.)
| | - Rui Benfeitas
- National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden (NBIS), Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, SE-17121 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH—Royal Institute of Technology, SE-17121 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.Z.); (M.A.); (M.U.)
| | - Muhammad Arif
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH—Royal Institute of Technology, SE-17121 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.Z.); (M.A.); (M.U.)
| | - Hasan Turkez
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Atatürk University, 25240 Erzurum, Turkey;
| | - Mathias Uhlén
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH—Royal Institute of Technology, SE-17121 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.Z.); (M.A.); (M.U.)
| | - Christoph Englert
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (N.H.); (C.E.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Freidrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Robert Knight
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK;
| | - Adil Mardinoglu
- Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 9RT, UK;
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH—Royal Institute of Technology, SE-17121 Stockholm, Sweden; (C.Z.); (M.A.); (M.U.)
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Kobar K, Collett K, Prykhozhij SV, Berman JN. Zebrafish Cancer Predisposition Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660069. [PMID: 33987182 PMCID: PMC8112447 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer predisposition syndromes are rare, typically monogenic disorders that result from germline mutations that increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Although these disorders are individually rare, resulting cancers collectively represent 5-10% of all malignancies. In addition to a greater incidence of cancer, affected individuals have an earlier tumor onset and are frequently subjected to long-term multi-modal cancer screening protocols for earlier detection and initiation of treatment. In vivo models are needed to better understand tumor-driving mechanisms, tailor patient screening approaches and develop targeted therapies to improve patient care and disease prognosis. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) has emerged as a robust model for cancer research due to its high fecundity, time- and cost-efficient genetic manipulation and real-time high-resolution imaging. Tumors developing in zebrafish cancer models are histologically and molecularly similar to their human counterparts, confirming the validity of these models. The zebrafish platform supports both large-scale random mutagenesis screens to identify potential candidate/modifier genes and recently optimized genome editing strategies. These techniques have greatly increased our ability to investigate the impact of certain mutations and how these lesions impact tumorigenesis and disease phenotype. These unique characteristics position the zebrafish as a powerful in vivo tool to model cancer predisposition syndromes and as such, several have already been created, including those recapitulating Li-Fraumeni syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, RASopathies, inherited bone marrow failure syndromes, and several other pathogenic mutations in cancer predisposition genes. In addition, the zebrafish platform supports medium- to high-throughput preclinical drug screening to identify compounds that may represent novel treatment paradigms or even prevent cancer evolution. This review will highlight and synthesize the findings from zebrafish cancer predisposition models created to date. We will discuss emerging trends in how these zebrafish cancer models can improve our understanding of the genetic mechanisms driving cancer predisposition and their potential to discover therapeutic and/or preventative compounds that change the natural history of disease for these vulnerable children, youth and adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Kobar
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Keon Collett
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Jason N. Berman
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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16
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Method Standardization for Conducting Innate Color Preference Studies in Different Zebrafish Strains. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8080271. [PMID: 32756400 PMCID: PMC7459758 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8080271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish has a tetrachromatic vision that is able to distinguish ultraviolet (UV) and visible wavelengths. Recently, zebrafish color preferences have gained much attention because of the easy setup of the instrument and its usefulness to screen behavior-linked stimuli. However, several published papers dealing with zebrafish color preferences have contradicting results that underscore the importance of method standardization in this field. Different laboratories may report different results because of variations in light source, color intensity, and other parameters such as age, gender, container size, and strain of fish. In this study, we aim to standardize the color preference test in zebrafish by measuring light source position, light intensity, gender, age, animal size to space ratio, and animal strain. Our results showed that color preferences for zebrafish are affected by light position, age, strain, and social interaction of the fish, but not affected by fish gender. We validated that ethanol can significantly induce color preference alteration in zebrafish which may be related to anxiety and depression. We also explored the potential use of the optimized method to examine color preference ranking and index differences in various zebrafish strains and species, such as the tiger barb and glass catfish. In conclusion, zebrafish color preference screening is a powerful tool for high-throughput neuropharmacological applications and the standardized protocol established in this study provides a useful reference for the zebrafish research community.
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Giunco S, Zangrossi M, Dal Pozzolo F, Celeghin A, Ballin G, Petrara MR, Amin A, Argenton F, Godinho Ferreira M, De Rossi A. Anti-Proliferative and Pro-Apoptotic Effects of Short-Term Inhibition of Telomerase In Vivo and in Human Malignant B Cells Xenografted in Zebrafish. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082052. [PMID: 32722398 PMCID: PMC7463531 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082052] [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: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Besides its canonical role in stabilizing telomeres, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) may promote tumor growth/progression through extra-telomeric functions. Our previous in vitro studies demonstrated that short-term TERT inhibition by BIBR1532 (BIBR), an inhibitor of TERT catalytic activity, negatively impacts cell proliferation and viability via telomeres’ length-independent mechanism. Here we evaluate the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of short-term telomerase inhibition in vivo in wild-type (wt) and tert mutant (terthu3430/hu3430; tert−/−) zebrafish embryos, and in malignant human B cells xenografted in casper zebrafish embryos. Short-term Tert inhibition by BIBR in wt embryos reduced cell proliferation, induced an accumulation of cells in S-phase and ultimately led to apoptosis associated with the activation of DNA damage response; all these effects were unrelated to telomere shortening/dysfunction. BIBR treatment showed no effects in tert−/− embryos. Xenografted untreated malignant B cells proliferated in zebrafish embryos, while BIBR pretreated cells constantly decreased and were significantly less than those in the controls from 24 to up to 72 h after xenotransplantation. Additionally, xenografted tumor cells, treated with BIBR prior- or post-transplantation, displayed a significant higher apoptotic rate compared to untreated control cells. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that short-term telomerase inhibition impairs proliferation and viability in vivo and in human malignant B cells xenografted in zebrafish, thus supporting therapeutic applications of TERT inhibitors in human malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giunco
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-821-5831
| | - Manuela Zangrossi
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
| | - Francesca Dal Pozzolo
- Immunology and Diagnostic Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV–IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Andrea Celeghin
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
| | - Giovanni Ballin
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
| | - Maria Raffaella Petrara
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
| | - Aamir Amin
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
| | | | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), UMR7284 U1081 UNS, Université Côte d’Azur, 06107 Nice CEDEX 2, France;
| | - Anita De Rossi
- Oncology and Immunology Section, Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.Z.); (A.C.); (G.B.); (M.R.P.); (A.A.); (A.D.R.)
- Immunology and Diagnostic Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV–IRCCS, 35128 Padova, Italy;
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Lex K, Maia Gil M, Lopes-Bastos B, Figueira M, Marzullo M, Giannetti K, Carvalho T, Ferreira MG. Telomere shortening produces an inflammatory environment that increases tumor incidence in zebrafish. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:15066-15074. [PMID: 32554492 PMCID: PMC7334448 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920049117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer incidence increases exponentially with age when human telomeres are shorter. Similarly, telomerase reverse transcriptase (tert) mutant zebrafish have premature short telomeres and anticipate cancer incidence to younger ages. However, because short telomeres constitute a road block to cell proliferation, telomere shortening is currently viewed as a tumor suppressor mechanism and should protect from cancer. This conundrum is not fully understood. In our current study, we report that telomere shortening promotes cancer in a noncell autonomous manner. Using zebrafish chimeras, we show increased incidence of invasive melanoma when wild-type (WT) tumors are generated in tert mutant zebrafish. Tissues adjacent to melanoma lesions (skin) and distant organs (intestine) in tert mutants exhibited higher levels of senescence and inflammation. In addition, we transferred second generation (G2) tert blastula cells into WT to produce embryo chimeras. Cells with very short telomeres induced increased tumor necrosis factor1-α (TNF1-α) expression and senescence in larval tissues in a noncell autonomous manner, creating an inflammatory environment. Considering that inflammation is protumorigenic, we transplanted melanoma-derived cells into G2 tert zebrafish embryos and observed that tissue environment with short telomeres leads to increased tumor development. To test if inflammation was necessary for this effect, we treated melanoma transplants with nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs and show that higher melanoma dissemination can be averted. Thus, apart from the cell autonomous role of short telomeres in contributing to genome instability, we propose that telomere shortening with age causes systemic chronic inflammation leading to increased tumor incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Lex
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Mariana Maia Gil
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Bruno Lopes-Bastos
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, UMR7284 U1081 UNS, 06107 Nice, France
| | - Margarida Figueira
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Marta Marzullo
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Kety Giannetti
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Tânia Carvalho
- Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Champalimaud Foundation, Av Brasilia, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Telomere and Genome Stability Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal;
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, UMR7284 U1081 UNS, 06107 Nice, France
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El Maï M, Marzullo M, de Castro IP, Ferreira MG. Opposing p53 and mTOR/AKT promote an in vivo switch from apoptosis to senescence upon telomere shortening in zebrafish. eLife 2020; 9:54935. [PMID: 32427102 PMCID: PMC7237213 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Progressive telomere shortening during lifespan is associated with restriction of cell proliferation, genome instability and aging. Apoptosis and senescence are the two major outcomes upon irreversible cellular damage. Here, we show a transition of these two cell fates during aging of telomerase deficient zebrafish. In young telomerase mutants, proliferative tissues exhibit DNA damage and p53-dependent apoptosis, but no senescence. However, these tissues in older animals display loss of cellularity and senescence becomes predominant. Tissue alterations are accompanied by a pro-proliferative stimulus mediated by AKT signaling. Upon AKT activation, FoxO transcription factors are phosphorylated and translocated out of the nucleus. This results in reduced SOD2 expression causing an increase of ROS and mitochondrial dysfunction. These alterations induce p15/16 growth arrest and senescence. We propose that, upon telomere shortening, early apoptosis leads to cell depletion and insufficient compensatory proliferation. Following tissue damage, the mTOR/AKT is activated causing mitochondrial dysfunction and p15/16-dependent senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounir El Maï
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
| | | | | | - Miguel Godinho Ferreira
- Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice (IRCAN), Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
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20
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Idilli AI, Pagani F, Kerschbamer E, Berardinelli F, Bernabé M, Cayuela ML, Piazza S, Poliani PL, Cusanelli E, Mione MC. Changes in the Expression of Pre-Replicative Complex Genes in hTERT and ALT Pediatric Brain Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12041028. [PMID: 32331249 PMCID: PMC7226177 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12041028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The up-regulation of a telomere maintenance mechanism (TMM) is a common feature of cancer cells and a hallmark of cancer. Routine methods for detecting TMMs in tumor samples are still missing, whereas telomerase targeting treatments are becoming available. In paediatric cancers, alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) is found in a subset of sarcomas and malignant brain tumors. ALT is a non-canonical mechanism of telomere maintenance developed by cancer cells with no-functional telomerase. Methods: To identify drivers and/or markers of ALT, we performed a differential gene expression analysis between two zebrafish models of juvenile brain tumors, that differ only for the telomere maintenance mechanism adopted by tumor cells: one is ALT while the other is telomerase-dependent. Results: Comparative analysis of gene expression identified five genes of the pre-replicative complex, ORC4, ORC6, MCM2, CDC45 and RPA3 as upregulated in ALT. We searched for a correlation between telomerase levels and expression of the pre-replicative complex genes in a cohort of paediatric brain cancers and identified a counter-correlation between telomerase expression and the genes of the pre-replicative complex. Moreover, the analysis of ALT markers in a group of 20 patients confirmed the association between ALT and increased RPA and decreased H3K9me3 localization at telomeres. Conclusions: Our study suggests that telomere maintenance mechanisms may act as a driver of telomeric DNA replication and chromatin status in brain cancers and identifies markers of ALT that could be exploited for precise prognostic and therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Irene Idilli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology–CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Francesca Pagani
- Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Emanuela Kerschbamer
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology–CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | | | - Manuel Bernabé
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging, Department of Surgery, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca, 30005 Murcia, Spain
| | - María Luisa Cayuela
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging, Department of Surgery, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca, 30005 Murcia, Spain
| | - Silvano Piazza
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology–CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Pietro Luigi Poliani
- Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Emilio Cusanelli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology–CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.C.); (M.C.M.); Tel.: +39-0461283312 (M.C.M.)
| | - Maria Caterina Mione
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology–CIBIO, University of Trento, Via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Correspondence: (E.C.); (M.C.M.); Tel.: +39-0461283312 (M.C.M.)
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21
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Wang X, Giusti A, Ny A, de Witte PA. Nephrotoxic Effects in Zebrafish after Prolonged Exposure to Aristolochic Acid. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12040217. [PMID: 32235450 PMCID: PMC7232444 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12040217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
With the aim to explore the possibility to generate a zebrafish model of renal fibrosis, in this study the fibrogenic renal effect of aristolochic acid I (AAI) after immersion was assessed. This compound is highly nephrotoxic able to elicit renal fibrosis after exposure of rats and humans. Our results reveal that larval zebrafish at 15 days dpf (days post-fertilization) exposed for 8 days to 0.5 µM AAI showed clear signs of AKI (acute kidney injury). The damage resulted in the relative loss of the functional glomerular filtration barrier. Conversely, we did not observe any deposition of collagen, nor could we immunodetect α-SMA, a hallmark of myofibroblasts, in the tubules. In addition, no increase in gene expression of fibrogenesis biomarkers after whole animal RNA extraction was found. As zebrafish have a high capability for tissue regeneration possibly impeding fibrogenic processes, we also used a tert−/− zebrafish line exhibiting telomerase deficiency and impaired tissue homeostasis. AAI-treated tert−/− larvae displayed an increased sensitivity towards 0.5 µM AAI. Importantly, after AAI treatment a mild collagen deposition could be found in the tubules. The outcome implies that sustained AKI induced by nephrotoxic compounds combined with defective tert−/− stem cells can produce a fibrotic response.
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22
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Bayat M, Tanny RE, Wang Y, Herden C, Daniel J, Andersen EC, Liebau E, Waschk DE. Effects of telomerase overexpression in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. Gene X 2020; 732:144367. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2020.144367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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23
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Idilli AI, Cusanelli E, Pagani F, Berardinelli F, Bernabé M, Cayuela ML, Poliani PL, Mione MC. Expression of tert Prevents ALT in Zebrafish Brain Tumors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:65. [PMID: 32117990 PMCID: PMC7026139 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation of a telomere maintenance mechanism (TMM) is an essential step in cancer progression to escape replicative senescence and apoptosis. Alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) is found in a subset of malignant brain tumors with poor outcomes. Here, we describe a model of juvenile zebrafish brain tumor that progressively develops ALT. We discovered that reduced expression of tert, linked to a widespread hypomethylation of the tert promoter and increase in Terra expression precedes ALT development. Surprisingly, expression of tert during juvenile brain tumor development led to reduced proliferation of tumor cells and prolonged survival. Most importantly, expression of tert reverted all ALT features and normalizes TERRA expression, promoted heterochromatin formation at telomeres, and attenuated telomeric DNA damage. These data suggest that the activity of telomerase goes beyond telomere maintenance and has profound consequences on genome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurora Irene Idilli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Emilio Cusanelli
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Francesca Pagani
- Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Manuel Bernabé
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging, Department of Surgery, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - María Luisa Cayuela
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging, Department of Surgery, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pietro Luigi Poliani
- Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Mione
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology - CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
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24
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Li C, Barton C, Henke K, Daane J, Treaster S, Caetano-Lopes J, Tanguay RL, Harris MP. celsr1a is essential for tissue homeostasis and onset of aging phenotypes in the zebrafish. eLife 2020; 9:50523. [PMID: 31985398 PMCID: PMC7010407 DOI: 10.7554/elife.50523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of genetics has been invaluable in defining the complex mechanisms of aging and longevity. Zebrafish, while a prominent model for vertebrate development, have not been used systematically to address questions of how and why we age. In a mutagenesis screen focusing on late developmental phenotypes, we identified a new mutant that displays aging phenotypes at young adult stages. We find that the phenotypes are due to loss-of-function in the non-classical cadherin celsr1a. The premature aging is not associated with increased cellular senescence or telomere length but is a result of a failure to maintain progenitor cell populations. We show that celsr1a is essential for maintenance of stem cell progenitors in late stages. Caloric restriction can ameliorate celsr1a aging phenotypes. These data suggest that celsr1a function helps to mediate stem cell maintenance during maturation and homeostasis of tissues and thus regulates the onset or expressivity of aging phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Li
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Carrie Barton
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Corvallis, United States
| | - Katrin Henke
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Jake Daane
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Stephen Treaster
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Joana Caetano-Lopes
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Robyn L Tanguay
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Sinnhuber Aquatic Research Laboratory, Corvallis, United States
| | - Matthew P Harris
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States.,Department of Orthopedics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, United States
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25
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Contrasting seasonal patterns of telomere dynamics in response to environmental conditions in the ectothermic sand lizard, Lacerta agilis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:182. [PMID: 31932620 PMCID: PMC6957525 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57084-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres, the protective, terminal parts of the chromosomes erode during cell division and as a result of oxidative damage by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Ectotherms rely on the ambient temperature for maintaining temperature-dependent metabolic rate, regulated through behavioural thermoregulation. Their temperature-dependant metabolism, hence also the ROS production, is indirectly regulated through thermoregulation. Consequently, a potential causal chain affecting telomere length and attrition is: temperature (in particular, its deviation from a species-specific optimum) – metabolism - ROS production – anti-oxidation - telomere erosion. We measured telomere length in sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) using qPCR on blood samples from 1998–2006. Effects of climatological parameters (mean temperature and average sunshine hours) in the summer and winter preceding telomere sampling were used as predictors of telomere length in mixed model analysis. During the lizards’ active period (summer), there was a largely negative effect of mean temperature and sun on telomere length, whereas a combined measure of age and size (head length) was positively related to telomere length. During the inactive period of lizards (winter), the results were largely the opposite with a positive relationship between temperature and sunshine hours and telomere length. In all four cases, thermal and age effects on telomere length appeared to be non-linear in the two sexes and seasons, with complex response surface effects on telomere length from combined age and thermal effects.
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26
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Effect of Moxibustion on Testosterone Secretion and Apoptosis of Spermatogenic Cells in Aging Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:5186408. [PMID: 31885650 PMCID: PMC6925733 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5186408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of androgen secretion and sperm production was conducted in the testis to investigate the efficacy of moxibustion on testicular function in aging rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into the aging group (N = 8), the mild-warm moxibustion group (N = 8), and the youth control group (N = 8). Rats in the mild-warm moxibustion group (MWMG) were exposed to mild-warm moxibustion at the Zusanli (ST36) and Shenshu (BL23) acupuncture points daily, from the age of 12 months until the age of 24 months. After the intervention, testicular tissue was harvested from all rats across groups. Changes in testicular structure were examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain. Detection of the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells was performed by the TUNEL assay. Testosterone level in the testis was analyzed by the ELISA assay, and the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, and androgen receptor (AR) in the testis was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. AR expression analysis was subsequently performed by the western blotting assay, and the detection of telomerase activity of the testis and the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, and AR mRNA were performed by real-time PCR. Compared with the youth controls, telomerase activity in the testis, testosterone levels, expression of AR, and expression of antiapoptosis factor Bcl-2 protein and mRNA were significantly decreased (P < 0.01) in the aging group. Spermatogenic cell apoptosis (P < 0.01) and proapoptotic factor Bax expression were significantly increased (P < 0.01) in the aging rats compared with the youth control group. The MWMG exhibited significant increases in testicular telomerase activity, testosterone level, AR expression, and antiapoptosis factor Bcl-2 expression (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) compared with the aging group. In this experimental group, spermatogenic apoptosis was inhibited (P < 0.01) and proapoptotic factor Bax expression significantly reduced (P < 0.01). Mild-warm moxibustion can inhibit reproductive senescence by improving telomerase activity, improving AR expression, restoring testosterone, and inhibiting spermatogenic apoptosis via regulation of Bcl-2/Bax.
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27
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Konantz M, Schürch C, Hanns P, Müller JS, Sauteur L, Lengerke C. Modeling hematopoietic disorders in zebrafish. Dis Model Mech 2019; 12:12/9/dmm040360. [PMID: 31519693 PMCID: PMC6765189 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.040360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish offer a powerful vertebrate model for studies of development and disease. The major advantages of this model include the possibilities of conducting reverse and forward genetic screens and of observing cellular processes by in vivo imaging of single cells. Moreover, pathways regulating blood development are highly conserved between zebrafish and mammals, and several discoveries made in fish were later translated to murine and human models. This review and accompanying poster provide an overview of zebrafish hematopoiesis and discuss the existing zebrafish models of blood disorders, such as myeloid and lymphoid malignancies, bone marrow failure syndromes and immunodeficiencies, with a focus on how these models were generated and how they can be applied for translational research. Summary: This At A Glance article and poster summarize the last 20 years of research in zebrafish models for hematopoietic disorders, highlighting how these models were created and are being applied for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Konantz
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Schürch
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Pauline Hanns
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Joëlle S Müller
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Loïc Sauteur
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Lengerke
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland.,Division of Hematology, University of Basel and University Hospital Basel, Basel 4031, Switzerland
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28
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Luo X, Jiang X, Li J, Bai Y, Li Z, Wei P, Sun S, Liang Y, Han S, Li X, Zhang B. Insulin-like growth factor-1 attenuates oxidative stress-induced hepatocyte premature senescence in liver fibrogenesis via regulating nuclear p53-progerin interaction. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:451. [PMID: 31171766 PMCID: PMC6554350 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1670-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS), a state of cell growth arrest due to various stimuli, is implicated in the pathogeneses of hepatic fibrogenesis. Progerin, a permanently farnesylated mutant lamin A protein, likely leads to premature senescence to influent liver diseases. The previous reports showed that activation of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) signaling could enhance cell longevity and attenuate liver fibrosis. However, the underlying mechanisms about hepatocyte premature senility in liver fibrosis, and how IGF-1 regulates cell premature aging and fibrogenesis, remain poorly understood. In the present study, we found the augment of hepatocyte oxidation and premature aging, along with the decrease of plasm IGF-1 level in patients with liver fibrosis and CCl4-induced liver injury rat models. Nevertheless, IGF-1 gene transfer to CCl4 rats to overexpress intrahepatic IGF-1 relieved hepatocyte oxidative stress and premature senescence, which was likely mediated by the p53/progerin pathway, to improve hepatic steatosis and fibrogenesis. In vitro, H2O2 caused abnormal accumulation of progerin in nuclear and activation of nuclear p53–progerin interaction to trigger primary rat hepatocyte premature senescence through the p21-independent pathway; while these effects were rescued by prolonged exogenous IGF-1 or the IGF-1 adenovirus vector. Furthermore, the IGF-1 adenovirus vector, transfected to H2O2-treated hepatocytes, reversed oxidative stress-induced premature senescence via enhancing cytoplasmic AKT1–p53 interaction and subsequently inhibiting nuclear p53–progerin interaction. Consequently, our data illuminate a novel role of IGF-1 in regulating stress-induced hepatocyte premature senescence in liver fibrosis: prolonged IGF-1 relieves oxidative stress-initiated hepatocyte premature senescence via inhibition of nuclear p53–progerin interaction to ameliorate hepatic steatosis and fibrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Microbiome Laboratory, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoke Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yangqiu Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Pathology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Peiru Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Suofeng Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Microbiome Laboratory, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan Liang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shuangyin Han
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiuling Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bingyong Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
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29
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Liang ST, Audira G, Juniardi S, Chen JR, Lai YH, Du ZC, Lin DS, Hsiao CD. Zebrafish Carrying pycr1 Gene Deficiency Display Aging and Multiple Behavioral Abnormalities. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050453. [PMID: 31091804 PMCID: PMC6562453 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is a natural process that internal gene control and external stimuli mediate. Clinical data pointed out that homozygotic or heterozygotic mutation in the pyrroline-5-carboxylate reductase 1 (PYCR1) gene in humans caused cutis laxa (ARCL) disease, with progeroid appearance, lax and wrinkled skin, joint laxity, osteopenia, and mental retardation phenotypes. In this study, we aimed to generate pycr1 knockout (KO) zebrafish and carried out biochemical characterizations and behavior analyses. Marked apoptosis and senescence were detected in pycr1 KO zebrafish, which started from embryos/larvae stage. Biochemical assays showed that adult pycr1 KO fish have significantly reduced proline and extracellular matrix contents, lowered energy, and diminished superoxide dismutase (SOD) and telomerase activity when compared to the wild type fish, which suggested the pycr1 KO fish may have dysfunction in mitochondria. The pycr1 KO fish were viable; however, displayed progeria-like phenotype from the 4 months old and reach 50% mortality around six months old. In adult stage, we found that pycr1 KO fish showed reduced locomotion activity, aggression, predator avoidance, social interaction interest, as well as dysregulated color preference and circadian rhythm. In summary, we have identified multiple behavioral alterations in a novel fish model for aging with pycr1 gene loss-of-function by behavioral tests. This animal model may not only provide a unique vertebrate model to screen potential anti-aging drugs in the future, but also be an excellent in vivo model towards a better understanding of the corresponding behavioral alterations that accompany aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Tzu Liang
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
| | - Gilbert Audira
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Department of Chemistry, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
| | - Stevhen Juniardi
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
| | - Jung-Ren Chen
- Department of Biological Science & Technology, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 84001, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Heng Lai
- Department of Chemistry, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 11114, Taiwan.
| | - Zheng-Cai Du
- Guangxi Scientific Experimental Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China.
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Efficacy Study on Chinese Materia Medica, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, China.
| | - Dar-Shong Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 252, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 252, Taiwan.
- Department of Medicine, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei 252, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Der Hsiao
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Department of Chemistry, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Center for Biomedical Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Center for Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
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30
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Olsson M, Wapstra E, Friesen C. Ectothermic telomeres: it's time they came in from the cold. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 373:rstb.2016.0449. [PMID: 29335373 PMCID: PMC5784069 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We review the evolutionary ecology and genetics of telomeres in taxa that cannot elevate their body temperature to a preferred level through metabolism but do so by basking or seeking out a warm environment. This group of organisms contains all living things on earth, apart from birds and mammals. One reason for our interest in this synthetic group is the argument that high, stable body temperature increases the risk of malignant tumours if long, telomerase-restored telomeres make cells 'live forever'. If this holds true, ectotherms should have significantly lower cancer frequencies. We discuss to what degree there is support for this 'anti-cancer' hypothesis in the current literature. Importantly, we suggest that ectothermic taxa, with variation in somatic telomerase expression across tissue and taxa, may hold the key to understanding ongoing selection and evolution of telomerase dynamics in the wild. We further review endotherm-specific effects of growth on telomeres, effects of autotomy ('tail dropping') on telomere attrition, and costs of maintaining sexual displays measured in telomere attrition. Finally, we cover plant ectotherm telomeres and life histories in a separate 'mini review'.This article is part of the theme issue 'Understanding diversity in telomere dynamics'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Olsson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 18, Box 463, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden .,School of Biological Sciences, The University of Wollongong, 2522 Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Erik Wapstra
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart 7001, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Christopher Friesen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Heydon-Laurence Bldg A08, Science Road, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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31
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Cayuela ML, Claes KBM, Ferreira MG, Henriques CM, van Eeden F, Varga M, Vierstraete J, Mione MC. The Zebrafish as an Emerging Model to Study DNA Damage in Aging, Cancer and Other Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 6:178. [PMID: 30687705 PMCID: PMC6335974 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a disease of the elderly, and old age is its largest risk factor. With age, DNA damage accumulates continuously, increasing the chance of malignant transformation. The zebrafish has emerged as an important vertebrate model to study these processes. Key mechanisms such as DNA damage responses and cellular senescence can be studied in zebrafish throughout its life course. In addition, the zebrafish is becoming an important resource to study telomere biology in aging, regeneration and cancer. Here we review some of the tools and resources that zebrafish researchers have developed and discuss their potential use in the study of DNA damage, cancer and aging related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Cayuela
- Telomerase, Cancer and Aging Group, Surgery Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | - Catarina Martins Henriques
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Máté Varga
- Department of Genetics, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
- MTA-SE Lendület Nephrogenetic Laboratory, Budapest, Hungary
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32
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Oyarbide U, Topczewski J, Corey SJ. Peering through zebrafish to understand inherited bone marrow failure syndromes. Haematologica 2018; 104:13-24. [PMID: 30573510 PMCID: PMC6312012 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2018.196105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited bone marrow failure syndromes are experiments of nature characterized by impaired hematopoiesis with cancer and leukemia predisposition. The mutations associated with inherited bone marrow failure syndromes affect fundamental cellular pathways, such as DNA repair, telomere maintenance, or proteostasis. How these disturbed pathways fail to produce sufficient blood cells and lead to leukemogenesis are not understood. The rarity of inherited cytopenias, the paucity of affected primary human hematopoietic cells, and the sometime inadequacy of murine or induced pluripotential stem cell models mean it is difficult to acquire a greater understanding of them. Zebrafish offer a model organism to study gene functions. As vertebrates, zebrafish share with humans many orthologous genes involved in blood disorders. As a model organism, zebrafish provide advantages that include rapid development of transparent embryos, high fecundity (providing large numbers of mutant and normal siblings), and a large collection of mutant and transgenic lines useful for investigating the blood system and other tissues during development. Importantly, recent advances in genomic editing in zebrafish can speedily validate the new genes or novel variants discovered in clinical investigation as causes for marrow failure. Here we review zebrafish as a model organism that phenocopies Fanconi anemia, Diamond-Blackfan anemia, dyskeratosis congenita, Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, congenital amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia, and severe congenital neutropenia. Two important insights, provided by modeling inherited cytopenias in zebrafish, widen understanding of ribosome biogenesis and TP53 in mediating marrow failure and non-hematologic defects. They suggest that TP53-independent pathways contribute to marrow failure. In addition, zebrafish provide an attractive model organism for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usua Oyarbide
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond and Massey Cancer Center at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jacek Topczewski
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Seth J Corey
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Richmond and Massey Cancer Center at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA .,Department of Microbiology/Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA.,Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, USA
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33
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Sarasamma S, Lai YH, Liang ST, Liu K, Hsiao CD. The Power of Fish Models to Elucidate Skin Cancer Pathogenesis and Impact the Discovery of New Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E3929. [PMID: 30544544 PMCID: PMC6321611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models play important roles in investigating the pathobiology of cancer, identifying relevant pathways, and developing novel therapeutic tools. Despite rapid progress in the understanding of disease mechanisms and technological advancement in drug discovery, negative trial outcomes are the most frequent incidences during a Phase III trial. Skin cancer is a potential life-threatening disease in humans and might be medically futile when tumors metastasize. This explains the low success rate of melanoma therapy amongst other malignancies. In the past decades, a number of skin cancer models in fish that showed a parallel development to the disease in humans have provided important insights into the fundamental biology of skin cancer and future treatment methods. With the diversity and breadth of advanced molecular genetic tools available in fish biology, fish skin cancer models will continue to be refined and expanded to keep pace with the rapid development of skin cancer research. This review begins with a brief introduction of molecular characteristics of skin cancers, followed by an overview of teleost models that have been used in the last decades in melanoma research. Next, we will detail the importance of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) animal model and other emerging fish models including platyfish (Xiphophorus sp.), and medaka (Oryzias latipes) in future cutaneous malignancy studies. The last part of this review provides the recent development and genome editing applications of skin cancer models in zebrafish and the progress in small molecule screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreeja Sarasamma
- Department of Chemistry, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Heng Lai
- Department of Chemistry, Chinese Culture University, Taipei 11114, Taiwan.
| | - Sung-Tzu Liang
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
| | - Kechun Liu
- Biology Institute, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan 250103, China.
| | - Chung-Der Hsiao
- Department of Chemistry, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Taiwan Center for Biomedical Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
- Center for Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 32023, Taiwan.
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Khan AH, Zou Z, Xiang Y, Chen S, Tian XL. Conserved signaling pathways genetically associated with longevity across the species. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1865:1745-1755. [PMID: 31109448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Advanced age is an independent risk factor for natural death and common diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and cancers, which are life-threatening and cause disabilities. On the other hand, individual with healthy longevity is a plausible model for successful aging. Thus, search for longevity-associated genes and pathways likely provides a unique approach to understand the genetic mechanisms underlying aging and healthspan, and emerging evidence from model organisms has highlighted the significance of genetic components in longevity. Here we reviewed the uses of model organisms including yeast, ciliate, nematode, arthropod, fish, rodent, and primate as well as human to identify the genetic determinants of longevity and discussed the genetic contributions of conserved longevity pathways, such as adrenergic system, AMPK, insulin/IGF-1, and mTOR signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Haseeb Khan
- Human population genetics, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI), Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China; School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China
| | - Zhiwen Zou
- School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China
| | - Yang Xiang
- Human population genetics, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI), Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China; School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China
| | - Shenghan Chen
- Human population genetics, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI), Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China; School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China
| | - Xiao-Li Tian
- Human population genetics, Human Aging Research Institute (HARI), Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China; School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Xuefu Rd 999, Honggutan New District, Nanchang, Jiangxi Province 330031, China.
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35
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Tonoyama Y, Shinya M, Toyoda A, Kitano T, Oga A, Nishimaki T, Katsumura T, Oota H, Wan MT, Yip BWP, Helen MOL, Chisada S, Deguchi T, Au DWT, Naruse K, Kamei Y, Taniguchi Y. Abnormal nuclear morphology is independent of longevity in a zmpste24-deficient fish model of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 209:54-62. [PMID: 29567411 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Lamin is an intermediate protein underlying the nuclear envelope and it plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the nucleus. A defect in the processing of its precursor by a metalloprotease, ZMPSTE24, results in the accumulation of farnesylated prelamin in the nucleus and causes various diseases, including Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS). However, the role of lamin processing is unclear in fish species. Here, we generated zmpste24-deficient medaka and evaluated their phenotype. Unlike humans and mice, homozygous mutants did not show growth defects or lifespan shortening, despite lamin precursor accumulation. Gonadosomatic indices, blood glucose levels, and regenerative capacity of fins were similar in 1-year-old mutants and their wild-type (WT) siblings. Histological examination showed that the muscles, subcutaneous fat tissues, and gonads were normal in the mutants at the age of 1 year. However, the mutants showed hypersensitivity to X-ray irradiation, although p53target genes, p21 and mdm2, were induced 6 h after irradiation. Immunostaining of primary cultured cells from caudal fins and visualization of nuclei using H2B-GFP fusion proteins revealed an abnormal nuclear shape in the mutants both in vitro and in vivo. The telomere lengths were significantly shorter in the mutants compared to WT. Taken together, these results suggest that zmpste24-deficient medaka phenocopied HGPS only partially and that abnormal nuclear morphology and lifespan shortening are two independent events in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Tonoyama
- Branch Laboratory of Gene Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, 2 Okubo, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 300-2611, Japan
| | - Minori Shinya
- Department of Biology, Keio University, 4-1-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 223-8521, Japan
| | - Atsushi Toyoda
- Center for Information Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Yata 1111, Mishima, Shizuoka 411-8540, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kitano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
| | - Atsunori Oga
- Department of Pathology, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Minamikogushi, Ube, Yamaguchi 755-8505, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Nishimaki
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0674, Japan
| | - Takafumi Katsumura
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0674, Japan
| | - Hiroki Oota
- Department of Anatomy, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0674, Japan
| | - Miles T Wan
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, Department of Chemistry, City University of, Hong Kong, China
| | - Bill W P Yip
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, Department of Chemistry, City University of, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mok O L Helen
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, Department of Chemistry, City University of, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shinichi Chisada
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kyorin University, School of Medicine, Tokyo 181-8611, Japan
| | - Tomonori Deguchi
- Advanced Genome Design Research Group, Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Midorigaoka 1-8-31, Ikeda, Osaka, 563-8577, Japan
| | - Doris W T Au
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, Department of Chemistry, City University of, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kiyoshi Naruse
- Laboratory of Bioresources, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kamei
- Spectrography and Bioimaging Facility, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8585, Japan
| | - Yoshihito Taniguchi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kyorin University, School of Medicine, Tokyo 181-8611, Japan.
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Scahill CM, Digby Z, Sealy IM, White RJ, Wali N, Collins JE, Stemple DL, Busch-Nentwich EM. The age of heterozygous telomerase mutant parents influences the adult phenotype of their offspring irrespective of genotype in zebrafish. Wellcome Open Res 2018; 2:77. [PMID: 29568807 PMCID: PMC5840683 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.12530.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mutations in proteins involved in telomere maintenance lead to a range of human diseases, including dyskeratosis congenita, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and cancer. Telomerase functions to add telomeric repeats back onto the ends of chromosomes, however non-canonical roles of components of telomerase have recently been suggested. Methods: Here we use a zebrafish telomerase mutant which harbours a nonsense mutation in
tert to investigate the adult phenotypes of fish derived from heterozygous parents of different ages. Furthermore we use whole genome sequencing data to estimate average telomere lengths. Results: We show that homozygous offspring from older heterozygotes exhibit signs of body wasting at a younger age than those of younger parents, and that offspring of older heterozygous parents weigh less irrespective of genotype. We also demonstrate that
tert homozygous mutant fish have a male sex bias, and that clutches from older parents also have a male sex bias in the heterozygous and wild-type populations. Telomere length analysis reveals that the telomeres of younger heterozygous parents are shorter than those of older heterozygous parents. Conclusions: These data indicate that the phenotypes observed in offspring from older parents cannot be explained by telomere length. Instead we propose that Tert functions outside of telomere length maintenance in an age-dependent manner to influence the adult phenotypes of the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zsofia Digby
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ian M Sealy
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Richard J White
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Neha Wali
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - John E Collins
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Derek L Stemple
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Elisabeth M Busch-Nentwich
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK.,Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Ruan L, Zhang X, Li R. Recent insights into the cellular and molecular determinants of aging. J Cell Sci 2018; 131:131/3/jcs210831. [PMID: 29420249 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.210831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aging is the gradual decline of physiological functions and organismal fitness, which leads to age-dependent fitness loss, diseases and eventually mortality. Understanding the cause of aging constitutes one of most intriguing areas of research in biology. On both the cellular and molecular levels, it has been hypothesized that there are aging determinants to control the onset and progression of aging, including the loss of beneficial components and accumulation of detrimental factors. This Review highlights the recent advance in identifying various factors that affect the aging process, focusing on how these determinants affect the lifespan and fitness of a cell or organism. With more and more aging determinants revealed, further understanding about their functions and interconnections could enable the development of specific intervention to extend healthy lifespan and reduce the risk of age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linhao Ruan
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology (BCMB) Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1830 E. Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Xi Zhang
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA .,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
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38
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Carneiro MC, de Castro IP, Ferreira MG. Telomeres in aging and disease: lessons from zebrafish. Dis Model Mech 2017; 9:737-48. [PMID: 27482813 PMCID: PMC4958310 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.025130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Age is the highest risk factor for some of the most prevalent human diseases, including cancer. Telomere shortening is thought to play a central role in the aging process in humans. The link between telomeres and aging is highlighted by the fact that genetic diseases causing telomerase deficiency are associated with premature aging and increased risk of cancer. For the last two decades, this link has been mostly investigated using mice that have long telomeres. However, zebrafish has recently emerged as a powerful and complementary model system to study telomere biology. Zebrafish possess human-like short telomeres that progressively decline with age, reaching lengths in old age that are observed when telomerase is mutated. The extensive characterization of its well-conserved molecular and cellular physiology makes this vertebrate an excellent model to unravel the underlying relationship between telomere shortening, tissue regeneration, aging and disease. In this Review, we explore the advantages of using zebrafish in telomere research and discuss the primary discoveries made in this model that have contributed to expanding our knowledge of how telomere attrition contributes to cellular senescence, organ dysfunction and disease. Summary: In this Review, the authors explore the advantages of using zebrafish in telomere research and discuss the primary discoveries made in this model that have contributed to expanding our knowledge of how telomere attrition contributes to cellular senescence, organ dysfunction and disease.
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39
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Olsson M, Wapstra E, Friesen CR. Evolutionary ecology of telomeres: a review. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2017; 1422:5-28. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mats Olsson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Wollongong Wollongong New South Wales Australia
| | - Erik Wapstra
- School of Biological Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania Australia
| | - Christopher R. Friesen
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
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40
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Hares MC, Vitikainen EIK, Marshall HH, Thompson FJ, Blount JD, Cant MA. Telomere dynamics in wild banded mongooses: Evaluating longitudinal and quasi-longitudinal markers of senescence. Exp Gerontol 2017; 107:67-73. [PMID: 28964829 PMCID: PMC5956279 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2017.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Telomere length and the rate of telomere shortening have been suggested as particularly useful physiological biomarkers of the processes involved in senescent decline of somatic and reproductive function. However, longitudinal data on changes in telomere length across the lifespan are difficult to obtain, particularly for long-lived animals. Quasi-longitudinal studies have been proposed as a method to gain insight into telomere dynamics in long-lived species. In this method, minimally replicative cells are used as the baseline telomere length against which telomere length in highly replicative cells (which represent the current state) can be compared. Here we test the assumptions and predictions of the quasi-longitudinal approach using longitudinal telomere data in a wild cooperative mammal, the banded mongoose, Mungos mungo. Contrary to our prediction, telomere length (TL) was longer in leukocytes than in ear cartilage. Longitudinally, the TL of ear cartilage shortened with age, but there was no change in the TL of leukocytes, and we also observed many individuals in which TL increased rather than decreased with age. Leukocyte TL but not cartilage TL was a predictor of total lifespan, while neither predicted post-sampling survival. Our data do not support the hypothesis that cross-tissue comparison in TL can act as a quasi-longitudinal marker of senescence. Rather, our results suggest that telomere dynamics in banded mongooses are more complex than is typically assumed, and that longitudinal studies across whole life spans are required to elucidate the link between telomere dynamics and senescence in natural populations. We find no evidence that somatic tissues can be used as a quasi-longitudinal marker for telomere length in leukocytes. Telomere dynamics in different tissue types appear to be complex and likely to be influenced by telomerase activity. Telomere length may be a useful marker for somatic quality in wild animal populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Hares
- University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom.
| | - Emma I K Vitikainen
- University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom.
| | - Harry H Marshall
- Centre for Research in Ecology, University of Roehampton, London, SW15 4JD, United Kingdom
| | - Faye J Thompson
- University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan D Blount
- University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Cant
- University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9FE, United Kingdom
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41
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Shao E, Bai Q, Zhou Y, Burton EA. Quantitative Responses of Adult Zebrafish to Changes in Ambient Illumination. Zebrafish 2017; 14:508-516. [PMID: 28910236 DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2017.1468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of zebrafish models to study central nervous system aging and late-onset neurological diseases will be facilitated by assays allowing rapid evaluation of neurological phenotypes in adult zebrafish. We analyzed groups of 12 adult zebrafish swimming simultaneously in single-animal arenas, and quantified their responses to changes in ambient illumination. Under these conditions, stereotypical locomotor patterns were observed and readily quantified using open source software. Continuous, low-velocity movements were observed during 10-min periods of darkness, whereas intermittent high-velocity movements occurred in bright light. At 80%-90% of abrupt light-to-dark or dark-to-light transitions, adult zebrafish produced a synchronous short-latency (20-22 ms) turn, followed by a propulsive movement with a high transient maximum velocity (400-500 mm/s). Between 5 and 35 months of age, latency increased by ∼10%, and peak velocity decreased by ∼30%, suggesting that the response declines in aged adults. Light transition responses can be measured rapidly and automatically in multiple adult zebrafish simultaneously, providing a convenient quantitative method for evaluating sensorimotor function in adult zebrafish models of neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enhua Shao
- 1 Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,3 Tsinghua University Medical School , Beijing, China
| | - Qing Bai
- 1 Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Yangzhong Zhou
- 1 Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,3 Tsinghua University Medical School , Beijing, China
| | - Edward A Burton
- 1 Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,2 Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.,4 Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Pittsburgh VA Healthcare System , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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42
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Scahill CM, Digby Z, Sealy IM, White RJ, Collins JE, Busch-Nentwich EM. The age of heterozygous telomerase mutant parents influences the adult phenotype of their offspring irrespective of genotype in zebrafish. Wellcome Open Res 2017. [DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.12530.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mutations in proteins involved in telomere maintenance lead to a range of human diseases, including dyskeratosis congenita, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and cancer. Telomerase functions to add telomeric repeats back onto the ends of chromosomes, however non-canonical roles of components of telomerase have recently been suggested.Methods: Here we use a zebrafish telomerase mutant which harbours a nonsense mutation intertto investigate the adult phenotypes of fish derived from heterozygous parents of different ages. Furthermore we use whole genome sequencing data to estimate average telomere lengths.Results: We show that homozygous offspring from older heterozygotes exhibit signs of body wasting at a younger age than those of younger parents, and that offspring of older heterozygous parents weigh less irrespective of genotype. We also demonstrate thatterthomozygous mutant fish have a male sex bias, and that clutches from older parents also have a male sex bias in the heterozygous and wild-type populations. Telomere length analysis reveals that the telomeres of younger heterozygous parents are shorter than those of older heterozygous parents.Conclusions: These data indicate that the phenotypes observed in offspring from older parents cannot be explained by telomere length. Instead we propose that Tert functions outside of telomere length maintenance in an age-dependent manner to influence the adult phenotypes of the next generation.
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43
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Rollings N, Friesen CR, Sudyka J, Whittington C, Giraudeau M, Wilson M, Olsson M. Telomere dynamics in a lizard with morph-specific reproductive investment and self-maintenance. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:5163-5169. [PMID: 28770056 PMCID: PMC5528203 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.2712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres in human fibroblasts shorten progressively during in vitro culturing and trigger replicative senescence. Furthermore, shortened telomeres can be used as biomarkers of disease. These observations have led to the suggestion that telomere dynamics may also be associated with viability and selection for life history variation in non‐human taxa. Model systems to examine this suggestion would particularly benefit from the coexistence of multiple phenotypes within the same species with different life history trade‐offs, since those could be compared in terms of telomere characteristics. This scenario also provokes the classic question of why one morph does not have marginally higher fitness and replaces the others. One explanation is that different morphs have different reproductive tactics with equal relative fitness. In Australian painted dragons (Ctenophorus pictus), males differ in head color, the presence or absence of a gular bib, and reproductive expenditure. Red males out‐compete yellow males in dominance contests, while yellow males copulate quickly and have higher success in sperm competition than red males. Males with bibs better defend partners against rival matings, at the cost of loss of body condition. We show that yellow‐headed and bib‐less males have longer telomeres than red, blue and bibbed males, suggesting that telomere length is positively associated with higher investment into self‐maintenance and less reproductive expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicky Rollings
- School of Biological Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia
| | | | - Joanna Sudyka
- Institute of Environmental Sciences Jagiellonian University Kraków Poland
| | | | - Mathieu Giraudeau
- School of Biological Sciences University of Sydney Sydney NSW Australia.,School of Life Sciences Arizona State University Tempe AZ USA.,Centre for Ecology and Conservation College of Life and Environmental Sciences University of Exeter Penryn UK
| | - Mark Wilson
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Wollongong Wollongong Australia
| | - Mats Olsson
- School of Biological Sciences The University of Wollongong Wollongong Australia.,Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
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44
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Karoglu ET, Halim DO, Erkaya B, Altaytas F, Arslan-Ergul A, Konu O, Adams MM. Aging alters the molecular dynamics of synapses in a sexually dimorphic pattern in zebrafish ( Danio rerio ). Neurobiol Aging 2017; 54:10-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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45
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Tan WH, Witten PE, Winkler C, Au DWT, Huysseune A. Telomerase Expression in Medaka ( Oryzias melastigma) Pharyngeal Teeth. J Dent Res 2017; 96:678-684. [PMID: 28530472 DOI: 10.1177/0022034517694039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonmammalian vertebrates have the capacity of lifelong tooth replacement. In all vertebrates, tooth formation requires contact and interaction between the oral or pharyngeal epithelium and the underlying mesenchyme. To secure lifelong replacement, the presence of odontogenic stem cells has been postulated, particularly in the epithelial compartment. This study uses an advanced teleost fish species, the marine medaka Oryzias melastigma, a close relative to Oryzias latipes, to examine the expression and distribution of telomerase reverse transcriptase (Tert), the catalytic unit of telomerase, in developing pharyngeal teeth and to relate these data to the proliferative activity of the cells. The data are complemented by expression analysis of the pluripotency marker oct4 and bona fide stem cell marker lgr5. Tert distribution and tert expression in developing tooth germs show a dynamic spatiotemporal pattern. Tert is present first in the mesenchyme but is downregulated as the odontoblasts differentiate. In contrast, in the epithelial enamel organ, Tert is absent during early stages of tooth formation and upregulated first in ameloblasts. Later, Tert is expressed and immunolocalized throughout the entire inner enamel epithelium. The pattern of Tert distribution is largely mutually exclusive with that of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoreactivity: highly proliferative cells, as revealed by PCNA staining, are negative for Tert; conversely, PCNA-negative cells are Tert-positive. Only the early condensed mesenchyme is both Tert- and PCNA-positive. The absence of tert-positive cells in the epithelial compartment of early tooth germs is underscored by the absence of oct4- and lgr5-positive cells, suggesting ways other than stem cell involvement to secure continuous renewal.
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Affiliation(s)
- W H Tan
- 1 Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore and NUS Centre for Bioimaging Sciences (CBIS), Singapore
| | - P E Witten
- 2 Research Group Evolutionary Developmental Biology, Biology Department, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - C Winkler
- 1 Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore and NUS Centre for Bioimaging Sciences (CBIS), Singapore
| | - D W T Au
- 3 State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong
| | - A Huysseune
- 2 Research Group Evolutionary Developmental Biology, Biology Department, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Kim Y, Nam HG, Valenzano DR. The short-lived African turquoise killifish: an emerging experimental model for ageing. Dis Model Mech 2016; 9:115-29. [PMID: 26839399 PMCID: PMC4770150 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.023226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ageing is a fundamental biological process that leads to functional decay, increased risk for various diseases and, ultimately, death. Some of the basic biological mechanisms underlying human ageing are shared with other organisms; thus, animal models have been invaluable in providing key mechanistic and molecular insights into the common bases of biological ageing. In this Review, we briefly summarise the major applications of the most commonly used model organisms adopted in ageing research and highlight their relevance in understanding human ageing. We compare the strengths and limitations of different model organisms and discuss in detail an emerging ageing model, the short-lived African turquoise killifish. We review the recent progress made in using the turquoise killifish to study the biology of ageing and discuss potential future applications of this promising animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Kim
- Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, D50931, Cologne, Germany Department of New Biology, DGIST, 711-873, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Gil Nam
- Department of New Biology, DGIST, 711-873, Daegu, Republic of Korea Center for Plant Aging Research, Institute for Basic Science, 711-873, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Barriuso
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | | | - Adam Hurlstone
- Faculty of Life Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Blackburn EH, Epel ES, Lin J. Human telomere biology: A contributory and interactive factor in aging, disease risks, and protection. Science 2016; 350:1193-8. [PMID: 26785477 DOI: 10.1126/science.aab3389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 961] [Impact Index Per Article: 120.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective end-complexes at the termini of eukaryotic chromosomes. Telomere attrition can lead to potentially maladaptive cellular changes, block cell division, and interfere with tissue replenishment. Recent advances in the understanding of human disease processes have clarified the roles of telomere biology, especially in diseases of human aging and in some aging-related processes. Greater overall telomere attrition predicts mortality and aging-related diseases in inherited telomere syndrome patients, and also in general human cohorts. However, genetically caused variations in telomere maintenance either raise or lower risks and progression of cancers, in a highly cancer type-specific fashion. Telomere maintenance is determined by genetic factors and is also cumulatively shaped by nongenetic influences throughout human life; both can interact. These and other recent findings highlight both causal and potentiating roles for telomere attrition in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth H Blackburn
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
| | - Elissa S Epel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Jue Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
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49
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Abstract
Telomeres, the protective ends of linear chromosomes, shorten throughout an individual's lifetime. Telomere shortening is a hallmark of molecular aging and is associated with premature appearance of diseases associated with aging. Here, we discuss the role of telomere shortening as a direct cause for aging and age-related diseases. In particular, we draw attention to the fact that telomere length influences longevity. Furthermore, we discuss intrinsic and environmental factors that can impact on human telomere erosion. Finally, we highlight recent advances in telomerase-based therapeutic strategies for the treatment of diseases associated with extremely short telomeres owing to mutations in telomerase, as well as age-related diseases, and ultimately aging itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bär
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria A Blasco
- Telomeres and Telomerase Group, Molecular Oncology Program, Spanish National Cancer Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
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Short Telomeres in Key Tissues Initiate Local and Systemic Aging in Zebrafish. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1005798. [PMID: 26789415 PMCID: PMC4720274 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres shorten with each cell division and telomere dysfunction is a recognized hallmark of aging. Tissue proliferation is expected to dictate the rate at which telomeres shorten. We set out to test whether proliferative tissues age faster than non-proliferative due to telomere shortening during zebrafish aging. We performed a prospective study linking telomere length to tissue pathology and disease. Contrary to expectations, we show that telomeres shorten to critical lengths only in specific tissues and independently of their proliferation rate. Short telomeres accumulate in the gut but not in other highly proliferative tissues such as the blood and gonads. Notably, the muscle, a low proliferative tissue, accumulates short telomeres and DNA damage at the same rate as the gut. Together, our work shows that telomere shortening and DNA damage in key tissues triggers not only local dysfunction but also anticipates the onset of age-associated diseases in other tissues, including cancer. Why, and how, organisms age and ultimately die is a key question of modern biology. Telomeres are considered molecular timekeepers determining cellular lifespans. Within an organism, tissue proliferation is expected to dictate the rate at which telomeres shorten. Using zebrafish, an organism with human-like telomeres, we set out to test whether, in natural aging, proliferative tissues age faster than non-proliferative in a telomere-dependent manner. We found that telomeres shorten with age to a level where they trigger telomere associated DNA damage and culminate in tissue dysfunction, independently of high or low tissue proliferation rates. Specifically, short telomeres accumulate in the gut, a highly proliferative tissue, and in the muscle, a low proliferative tissue, working as direct predictors of cellular damage prior to onset of intestinal inflammation and myocyte degeneration. Based on our data, we propose a model where telomere shortening in these key tissues is sufficient to trigger damage in others and precedes the onset of organism age-associated diseases, namely cancer. Thus, tissue-specific telomere length is limiting for local and systemic physiological integrity, leading to tissue degeneration and disease in aging.
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