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Centini G, Labanca L, Giorgi M, Martire FG, Catania F, Zupi E, Lazzeri L. The implications of the anatomy of the nerves and vessels in the treatment of rectosigmoid endometriosis. Clin Anat 2024; 37:270-277. [PMID: 37165994 DOI: 10.1002/ca.24059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common benign gynecological disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus. It can be defined as endometrioma, superficial peritoneal endometriosis or deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) depending on the location and the depth of infiltration of the organs. In 5%-12% of cases, DIE affects the digestive tract, frequently involving the distal part of the sigmoid colon and rectum. Surgery is generally recommended in cases of obstructive symptoms and in cases with pain that is non-responsive to medical treatment. Selection of the most optimal surgical technique for the treatment of bowel endometriosis must consider different variables, including the number of lesions, eventual multifocal lesions, as well as length, width and grade of infiltration into the bowel wall. Except for some major and widely accepted indications regarding bowel resection, established international guidelines are not clear on when to employ a more conservative approach like rectal shaving or discoid resection, and when, instead, to opt for bowel resection. Damage to the pelvic autonomic nervous system may be avoided by detection of the middle rectal artery, where its relationship with female pelvic nerve fibers allows its use as an anatomical landmark. To reduce the risk of potential vascular and nervous complications related to bowel resection, a less invasive approach such as shaving or discoid resection can be considered as potential treatment options. Additionally, the middle rectal artery can be used as a reference point in cases of upper bowel resection, where a trans mesorectal technique should be preferred to prevent devascularization and denervation of the bowel segments not affected by the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Centini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Labanca
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Giorgi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Giuseppe Martire
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecological Unit, Valdarno Hospital, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Errico Zupi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Lazzeri
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Martire FG, Labanca L, Giorgi M, Selntigia A, Russo C, Centini G, Ginetti A, D’Abate C, Capriglione S, Exacoustos C, Catania F, Zupi E, Lazzeri L. The role of hysteroscopy with morcellator without anesthesia in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2024; 25:1-6. [PMID: 38444293 PMCID: PMC10921079 DOI: 10.4274/jtgga.galenos.2023.2023-7-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the feasibility of hysteroscopy with morcellator without anesthesia and the diagnostic accuracy of 2D, 3D and power Doppler transvaginal sonography (TVS) in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). Material and Methods This was a retrospective study including women with AUB. All patients underwent 2D, 3D and power Doppler TVS evaluation of the uterine cavity, and patients with suspicion on ultrasound (US) of endometrial pathology (EP) underwent hysteroscopy with morcellator without anesthesia. The painful symptomatology was assessed during the procedure using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Additionally, histological evaluation was performed. Results A total of 182 women underwent US imaging, of whom 131 (72%) had hysteroscopy. 130/131 patients completed the hysteroscopic examination with good compliance (VAS <4). One patient (0.8%) was unable to complete the procedure due to nulliparity and cervical stenosis. Of the 130 patients the US diagnosis was confirmed in 120 (92.3%), while in 10 patients (7.7%) the hysteroscopic diagnosis was different from the US diagnosis. Histological examination confirmed benign endometrial polyps in 115/130 patients (88.5%), while premalignant conditions were diagnosed in 3/130 patients (2.3%) and malignant conditions in 2/130 (1.5%). Of the 10 patients with endometrial thickening, two were diagnosed with a malignant condition. Conclusion This study confirmed the feasibility of managing patients with AUB and suspicion of EP using "see-and-treat" hysteroscopy with morcellator without anesthesia. This procedure has the potential to yield desired outcomes while minimizing pain and discomfort, presenting a feasible outpatient approach for both treating and preventing endometrial carcinoma without requiring anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Giuseppe Martire
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology of Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecological Unit, Valdarno Hospital, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Luca Labanca
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecological Unit, Valdarno Hospital, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Matteo Giorgi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Aikaterini Selntigia
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology of Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Consuelo Russo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology of Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Centini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ginetti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudia D’Abate
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stella Capriglione
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecological Unit, Valdarno Hospital, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Caterina Exacoustos
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology of Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Gynecological Unit, Valdarno Hospital, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Errico Zupi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Lazzeri
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Martire FG, Giorgi M, Labanca L, Centini G, Catania F, Exacoustos C, Zupi E, Lazzeri L. Unilateral hydroureteronephrosis after introduction of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system: a case report and literature review. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2023; 75:491-497. [PMID: 36255159 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Insertion of a LNG-Intra-uterine System (LNG-IUS) has many gynecological indications. The approved indications worldwide are contraception, treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding depending on not organic disease, and endometrial protection in case of an estrogenic therapy. Instead adenomyosis, fibroids, and fertility-sparing management of endometrial hyperplasia or early endometrial cancer in patients with desire of pregnancy are off label indications. Hydroureteronephrosis is an uncommon complication during LNG-IUS insertion. There are few cases described in the literature. The first diagnostic approach for this complication is an abdominal-pelvic ultrasound scan to identify the abnormal position of the device. Diagnostic management includes computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which are necessary to confirm hydroureteronephrosis and to assess the exact location of the LNG-IUS in the abdomen. A minimally invasive approach is the standard of care with the removal of the device, while the therapeutic management of the hydroureteronephrosis depends on ureteral and kidney involvement. We report the history of a dislocated LNG-IUS in the left paracervical space with subsequent ipsilateral hydroureteronephrosis. In our case we removed the device through hysteroscopy and later inserted a J-J stent. Follow-up at three months revealed the persistence of left hydroureteronephrosis, so we performed ureter reimplantation. We also performed a review of the literature to analyze common diagnostic and therapeutic pathways for this rare complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco G Martire
- Unit of Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
- Unit of Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Valdarno Hospital, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est, Montevarchi, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Matteo Giorgi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy -
| | - Luca Labanca
- Unit of Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Valdarno Hospital, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est, Montevarchi, Arezzo, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gabriele Centini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Unit of Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Valdarno Hospital, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est, Montevarchi, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Caterina Exacoustos
- Unit of Gynecology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Errico Zupi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lucia Lazzeri
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Perelli F, Turrini I, Giorgi MG, Renda I, Vidiri A, Straface G, Scatena E, D’Indinosante M, Marchi L, Giusti M, Oliva A, Grassi S, De Luca C, Catania F, Vizzielli G, Restaino S, Gullo G, Eleftheriou G, Mattei A, Signore F, Lanzone A, Scambia G, Cavaliere AF. Contrast Agents during Pregnancy: Pros and Cons When Really Needed. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph192416699. [PMID: 36554582 PMCID: PMC9779218 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Many clinical conditions require radiological diagnostic exams based on the emission of different kinds of energy and the use of contrast agents, such as computerized tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance (MR), ultrasound (US), and X-ray imaging. Pregnant patients who should be submitted for diagnostic examinations with contrast agents represent a group of patients with whom it is necessary to consider both maternal and fetal effects. Radiological examinations use different types of contrast media, the most used and studied are represented by iodinate contrast agents, gadolinium, fluorodeoxyglucose, gastrographin, bariumsulfate, and nanobubbles used in contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). The present paper reports the available data about each contrast agent and its effect related to the mother and fetus. This review aims to clarify the clinical practices to follow in cases where a radiodiagnostic examination with a contrast medium is indicated to be performed on a pregnant patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Perelli
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, 50012 Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Turrini
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santo Stefano Hospital, 59100 Prato, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Gabriella Giorgi
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santo Stefano Hospital, 59100 Prato, Italy
| | - Irene Renda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Annalisa Vidiri
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Straface
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Policlinico Abano Terme, 35031 Abano Terme, Italy
| | - Elisa Scatena
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santo Stefano Hospital, 59100 Prato, Italy
| | - Marco D’Indinosante
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santo Stefano Hospital, 59100 Prato, Italy
| | - Laura Marchi
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santo Stefano Hospital, 59100 Prato, Italy
| | - Marco Giusti
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, 50012 Florence, Italy
| | - Antonio Oliva
- Department of Health Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Grassi
- Department of Health Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Legal Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen De Luca
- Teratology Information Service, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale “Santa Maria Alla Gruccia”, 52025 Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vizzielli
- Department of Medicinal Area (DAME) Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Stefano Restaino
- Department of Medicinal Area (DAME) Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- IVF Public Center, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti (AOOR) Villa Sofia Cervello, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Georgios Eleftheriou
- Poison Control Center and Teratology Information Service, Hospital Papa Giovanni XIII, 24127 Bergamo, Italy
| | - Alberto Mattei
- Azienda USL Toscana Centro, Gynecology and Obstetric Department, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, 50012 Florence, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Signore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Santo Eugenio Hospital, 00144 Rome, Italy
- School of Medicine, Unicamillus University Rome, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lanzone
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Franca Cavaliere
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina, 00186 Rome, Italy
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Genovese F, Siringo S, Leonardi E, Tuscano A, Gulino FA, Cannone F, Palumbo MA, Catania F, Capriglione S, Martire FG. Report of a Case of a Giant Dumb-Bell Shaped Bartholin’s Gland Cyst and Systematic Review of the Literature. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2022. [DOI: 10.31083/j.ceog4909202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Gulino FA, Dilisi V, Capriglione S, Cannone F, Catania F, Martire FG, Tuscano A, Gulisano M, D’Urso V, Di Stefano A, Cimino MC, Filippini M, Latella S, Sammarini M, Musmeci G, Palumbo MA. Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and adenomyosis: Mini-review of literature of the last 5 years. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1014519. [PMID: 36120472 PMCID: PMC9471373 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1014519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adenomyosis is a form of endometriosis characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue in the myometrium. The correlation between anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) expression and adenomyosis is unclear. Few studies investigated this possible correlation with promising results. The aim of this mini-review is to illustrate the potential prognostic and therapeutic role of AMH in adenomyosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A study protocol was completed conforming to the Preferred Reporting Items for Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for systematic reviews. We performed an electronic databases search from each database's inception from August 2017 to August 2022 for full-text articles and published abstracts. For database searches, the following main keywords were the following text words: "adenomyosis" or "uterine endometriosis" [Mesh] AND "AMH" or "anti-mullerian hormone". RESULTS From the literature search, 8 abstracts of studies were retrieved and independently screened for inclusion by three authors. It was found that the most common therapeutic strategies (such as adenomyomectomy and high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) do not alter AMH levels. Moreover, a higher expression of the AMH receptor II was observed in adenomyotic tissue, hence a possible therapeutic use of AMH was hypothesized. CONCLUSION The available evidence shows an unclear relationship between adenomyosis and AMH. Probably, women with adenomyosis have lower levels of AMH and the surgical treatment (adenomyomectomy, HIFU) does not alter this characteristic, therefore in all of them, ovarian function is not influenced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS) Garibaldi, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Ferdinando Antonio Gulino,
| | - Valentina Dilisi
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stella Capriglione
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale “Santa Maria Alla Gruccia”, Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Francesco Cannone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS) Garibaldi, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale “Santa Maria Alla Gruccia”, Montevarchi, Italy
| | | | - Attilio Tuscano
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marianna Gulisano
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina D’Urso
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandra Di Stefano
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Monia Caterina Cimino
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maurizio Filippini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale di Stato, Cailungo, San Marino
| | - Silvia Latella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale di Stato, Cailungo, San Marino
| | - Margaret Sammarini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale di Stato, Cailungo, San Marino
| | - Giulia Musmeci
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, San’Elia Hospital, Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Marco Antonio Palumbo
- Department of Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Catania F, Rothering R, Vitali V. One Cell, Two Gears: Extensive Somatic Genome Plasticity Accompanies High Germline Genome Stability in Paramecium. Genome Biol Evol 2021; 13:6443145. [PMID: 34849843 PMCID: PMC8670300 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evab263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation accumulation (MA) experiments are conventionally employed to study spontaneous germline mutations. However, MA experiments can also shed light on somatic genome plasticity in a habitual and genetic drift-maximizing environment. Here, we revisit an MA experiment that uncovered extraordinary germline genome stability in Paramecium tetraurelia, a single-celled eukaryote with nuclear dimorphism. Our re-examination of isogenic P. tetraurelia MA lines propagated in nutrient-rich medium for >40 sexual cycles reveals that their polyploid somatic genome accrued hundreds of intervening DNA segments (IESs), which are normally eliminated during germline-soma differentiation. These IESs frequently occupy a fraction of the somatic DNA copies of a given locus, producing IES excision/retention polymorphisms, and preferentially fall into a class of epigenetically controlled sequences. Relative to control lines, retained IESs are flanked by stronger cis-acting signals and interrupt an excess of highly expressed coding exons. These findings suggest that P. tetraurelia’s elevated germline DNA replication fidelity is associated with pervasive somatic genome plasticity. They show that MA regimes are powerful tools for investigating the role that developmental plasticity, somatic mutations, and epimutations have in ecology and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Germany.,Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, Japan
| | - Rebecca Rothering
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Valerio Vitali
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Germany
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8
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Catania F, Ujvari B, Roche B, Capp JP, Thomas F. Bridging Tumorigenesis and Therapy Resistance With a Non-Darwinian and Non-Lamarckian Mechanism of Adaptive Evolution. Front Oncol 2021; 11:732081. [PMID: 34568068 PMCID: PMC8462274 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.732081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although neo-Darwinian (and less often Lamarckian) dynamics are regularly invoked to interpret cancer's multifarious molecular profiles, they shine little light on how tumorigenesis unfolds and often fail to fully capture the frequency and breadth of resistance mechanisms. This uncertainty frames one of the most problematic gaps between science and practice in modern times. Here, we offer a theory of adaptive cancer evolution, which builds on a molecular mechanism that lies outside neo-Darwinian and Lamarckian schemes. This mechanism coherently integrates non-genetic and genetic changes, ecological and evolutionary time scales, and shifts the spotlight away from positive selection towards purifying selection, genetic drift, and the creative-disruptive power of environmental change. The surprisingly simple use-it or lose-it rationale of the proposed theory can help predict molecular dynamics during tumorigenesis. It also provides simple rules of thumb that should help improve therapeutic approaches in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Beata Ujvari
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Deakin, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin Roche
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), Centre de Recherches Ecologiques et Evolutives sur le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Capp
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, University of Toulouse, INSA, CNRS, INRAE, Toulouse, France
| | - Frédéric Thomas
- CREEC/CANECEV, MIVEGEC (CREES), Centre de Recherches Ecologiques et Evolutives sur le Cancer, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
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9
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Thind AS, Vitali V, Guarracino MR, Catania F. What's Genetic Variation Got to Do with It? Starvation-Induced Self-Fertilization Enhances Survival in Paramecium. Genome Biol Evol 2021; 12:626-638. [PMID: 32163147 PMCID: PMC7239694 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evaa052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The pervasiveness of sex despite its well-known costs is a long-standing puzzle in evolutionary biology. Current explanations for the success of sex in nature largely rely on the adaptive significance of the new or rare genotypes that sex may generate. Less explored is the possibility that sex-underlying molecular mechanisms can enhance fitness and convey benefits to the individuals that bear the immediate costs of sex. Here, we show that the molecular environment associated with self-fertilization can increase stress resistance in the ciliate Paramecium tetraurelia. This advantage is independent of new genetic variation, coupled with a reduced nutritional input, and offers fresh insights into the mechanistic origin of sex. In addition to providing evidence that the molecular underpinnings of sexual reproduction and the stress response are linked in P. tetraurelia, these findings supply an integrative explanation for the persistence of self-fertilization in this ciliate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amarinder Singh Thind
- Institute for High Performance Computing and Networking (ICAR), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Valerio Vitali
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, Department of Biology, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Mario Rosario Guarracino
- Institute for High Performance Computing and Networking (ICAR), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, Department of Biology, University of Münster, Germany
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Catania F, Baedke J, Fábregas-Tejeda A, Nieves Delgado A, Vitali V, Long LAN. Global climate change, diet, and the complex relationship between human host and microbiome: Towards an integrated picture. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2100049. [PMID: 33829521 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dietary changes can alter the human microbiome with potential detrimental consequences for health. Given that environment, health, and evolution are interconnected, we ask: Could diet-driven microbiome perturbations have consequences that extend beyond their immediate impact on human health? We address this question in the context of the urgent health challenges posed by global climate change. Drawing on recent studies, we propose that not only can diet-driven microbiome changes lead to dysbiosis, they can also shape life-history traits and fuel human evolution. We posit that dietary shifts prompt mismatched microbiome-host genetics configurations that modulate human longevity and reproductive success. These mismatches can also induce a heritable intra-holobiont stress response, which encourages the holobiont to re-establish equilibrium within the changed nutritional environment. Thus, while mismatches between climate change-related genetic and epigenetic configurations within the holobiont increase the risk and severity of diseases, they may also affect life-history traits and facilitate adaptive responses. These propositions form a framework that can help systematize and address climate-related dietary challenges for policy and health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jan Baedke
- Department of Philosophy I, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Abigail Nieves Delgado
- Knowledge, Technology & Innovation, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.,Freudenthal Institute, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Valerio Vitali
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Le Anh Nguyen Long
- Department of Public Administration, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
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Hagen R, Vitali V, Catania F. Cross-Generational Effects and Non-random Developmental Response to Temperature Variation in Paramecium. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:584219. [PMID: 33195230 PMCID: PMC7606892 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.584219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Unicellular organisms such as ciliates are largely neglected in research on adaptive developmental plasticity, although their nuclear dualism offers ideal circumstances to study development outside an embryonic context. Here, we gain first insights into the ability of the ciliate Paramecium to develop potentially adaptive phenotypic changes in response to early-life adversity. We show that, upon exposure to unconventional culture temperatures, germ line-to-soma differentiation gives rise to coordinated molecular changes that may help attune the number of functional gene copies to the new external conditions. The non-random somatic heterogeneity that developmental plasticity generates is largely epigenetically controlled, shaped by the parental experience, and may prompt a stress response. These findings establish Paramecium as a new model system to study the molecular basis and evolutionary significance of developmental plasticity. In echoing previous indications in mammals, they call for an incorporation of intergenerational effects in adaptation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Hagen
- Department of Biology, Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Valerio Vitali
- Department of Biology, Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Francesco Catania
- Department of Biology, Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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12
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Vitali V, Hagen R, Catania F. Environmentally induced plasticity of programmed DNA elimination boosts somatic variability in Paramecium tetraurelia. Genome Res 2019; 29:1693-1704. [PMID: 31548355 PMCID: PMC6771405 DOI: 10.1101/gr.245332.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Can ecological changes impact somatic genome development? Efforts to resolve this question could reveal a direct link between environmental changes and somatic variability, potentially illuminating our understanding of how variation can surface from a single genotype under stress. Here, we tackle this question by leveraging the biological properties of ciliates. When Paramecium tetraurelia reproduces sexually, its polyploid somatic genome regenerates from the germline genome through a developmental process that involves the removal of thousands of ORF-interrupting sequences known as internal eliminated sequences (IESs). We show that exposure to nonstandard culture temperatures impacts the efficiency of this process of programmed DNA elimination, prompting the emergence of hundreds of incompletely excised IESs in the newly developed somatic genome. These alternative DNA isoforms display a patterned genomic topography, impact gene expression, and might be inherited transgenerationally. On this basis, we conclude that environmentally induced developmental thermoplasticity contributes to genotypic diversification in Paramecium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Vitali
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Rebecca Hagen
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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13
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Abstract
Insulin signaling is pivotal in controlling animals' lifespan and responses to environmental changes and, when altered, it may lead to pathogenic states. Despite its importance and relevance for biomedical research, insulin's mechanism of action and the full range of its pathophysiological effects remain incompletely understood. Likewise, the evolutionary origin of insulin and its associated signaling components are unclear. Notwithstanding the common view that insulin signaling originated within metazoans, experimental evidence from non-metazoans suggest a more widespread distribution across eukaryotes. Here, we summarize this evidence. Furthermore, we put forward an evolutionary account that reconciles seemingly contradictory results in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Vitali
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstrasse 1, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Florian Horn
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Medical University Innsbruck, Müllerstrasse 59, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstrasse 1, D-48149 Münster, Germany
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14
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Langhanki L, Berger P, Treffon J, Catania F, Kahl BC, Mellmann A. In vivo competition and horizontal gene transfer among distinct Staphylococcus aureus lineages as major drivers for adaptational changes during long-term persistence in humans. BMC Microbiol 2018; 18:152. [PMID: 30348081 PMCID: PMC6198438 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-018-1308-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The airways of the majority of adolescent cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are persistently colonized or infected by Staphylococcus aureus. Using whole genome sequencing, we studied the evolutionary traits within a S. aureus population in the airways of a CF patient hypothesizing that horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and inter-bacterial interaction play a major role in adaptation during long-term persistence. Results Whole genome sequencing of 21 S. aureus isolates spanning 13 years resulted in seven lineages defined by the spa types t012, t021, t331, t338, t364, t056, and t2351. Of these, the successfully persisting lineages t012 and t021 were closely related suggesting the evolution of t021 from t012, which was further corroborated by a nearly identical, syntenic set of mobile genetic elements. During transformation from t012 to t021, an increase of genomic changes including HGT from other S. aureus lineages was detected. Conclusions In summary, our in vivo data enabled us to conceptualize an evolutionary model showing the impact of HGT and inter-bacterial interaction on bacterial long-term adaptation to the human host during CF. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12866-018-1308-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Langhanki
- Institute of Hygiene, University Hospital Münster, Robert-Koch Straße 41, Münster, 48149, Germany
| | - Petya Berger
- Institute of Hygiene, University Hospital Münster, Robert-Koch Straße 41, Münster, 48149, Germany
| | - Janina Treffon
- Institute of Med. Microbiology, University Hospital Muenster, Domagkstraße 10, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Muenster, Hüfferstraße 1, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Barbara C Kahl
- Institute of Med. Microbiology, University Hospital Muenster, Domagkstraße 10, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Alexander Mellmann
- Institute of Hygiene, University Hospital Münster, Robert-Koch Straße 41, Münster, 48149, Germany.
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15
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Abstract
In jawed vertebrates, the adaptive immune system (AIS) cooperates with the innate immune system (IIS) to protect hosts from infections. Although targeting non-self-components, the AIS also generates self-reactive antibodies which, when inadequately counter-selected, can give rise to autoimmune diseases (ADs). ADs are on the rise in western countries. Why haven’t ADs been eliminated during the evolution of a ∼500 million-year old system? And why have they become more frequent in recent decades? Self-recognition is an attribute of the phylogenetically more ancient IIS and empirical data compellingly show that some self-reactive antibodies, which are classifiable as elements of the IIS rather then the AIS, may protect from (rather than cause) ADs. Here, we propose that the IIS’s self-recognition system originally fathered the AIS and, as a consequence of this relationship, its activity is dampened in hygienic environments. Rather than a mere breakdown or failure of the mechanisms of self-tolerance, ADs might thus arise from architectural constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Bayersdorf
- Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany.,Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Arrigo Fruscalzo
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St Franziskus Hospital, 59227 Ahlen, Germany.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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16
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Catania F. From intronization to intron loss: How the interplay between mRNA-associated processes can shape the architecture and the expression of eukaryotic genes. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2017; 91:136-144. [PMID: 28673893 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2017.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Transcription-coupled processes such as capping, splicing, and cleavage/polyadenylation participate in the journey from genes to proteins. Although they are traditionally thought to serve only as steps in the generation of mature mRNAs, a synthesis of available data indicates that these processes could also act as a driving force for the evolution of eukaryotic genes. A theoretical framework for how mRNA-associated processes may shape gene structure and expression has recently been proposed. Factors that promote splicing and cleavage/polyadenylation in this framework compete for access to overlapping or neighboring signals throughout the transcription cycle. These antagonistic interactions allow mechanisms for intron gain and splice site recognition as well as common trends in eukaryotic gene structure and expression to be coherently integrated. Here, I extend this framework further. Observations that largely (but not exclusively) revolve around the formation of DNA-RNA hybrid structures, called R loops, and promoter directionality are integrated. Additionally, the interplay between splicing factors and cleavage/polyadenylation factors is theorized to also affect the formation of intragenic DNA double-stranded breaks thereby contributing to intron loss. The most notable prediction in this proposition is that RNA molecules can mediate intron loss by serving as a template to repair DNA double-stranded breaks. The framework presented here leverages a vast body of empirical observations, logically extending previous suggestions, and generating verifiable predictions to further substantiate the view that the intracellular environment plays an active role in shaping the structure and the expression of eukaryotic genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstraße 1, 48149 Münster, Germany.
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17
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Ferro D, Lepennetier G, Catania F. Cis-acting signals modulate the efficiency of programmed DNA elimination in Paramecium tetraurelia. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:8157-68. [PMID: 26304543 PMCID: PMC4787833 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In Paramecium, the regeneration of a functional somatic genome at each sexual event relies on the elimination of thousands of germline DNA sequences, known as Internal Eliminated Sequences (IESs), from the zygotic nuclear DNA. Here, we provide evidence that IESs’ length and sub-terminal bases jointly modulate IES excision by affecting DNA conformation in P. tetraurelia. Our study reveals an excess of complementary base pairing between IESs’ sub-terminal and contiguous sites, suggesting that IESs may form DNA loops prior to cleavage. The degree of complementary base pairing between IESs’ sub-terminal sites (termed Cin-score) is positively associated with IES length and is shaped by natural selection. Moreover, it escalates abruptly when IES length exceeds 45 nucleotides (nt), indicating that only sufficiently large IESs may form loops. Finally, we find that IESs smaller than 46 nt are favored targets of the cellular surveillance systems, presumably because of their relatively inefficient excision. Our findings extend the repertoire of cis-acting determinants for IES recognition/excision and provide unprecedented insights into the distinct selective pressures that operate on IESs and somatic DNA regions. This information potentially moves current models of IES evolution and of mechanisms of IES recognition/excision forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Ferro
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstrasse 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Gildas Lepennetier
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstrasse 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Hüfferstrasse 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
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18
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Catania F, Schmitz J. On the path to genetic novelties: insights from programmed DNA elimination and RNA splicing. Wiley Interdiscip Rev RNA 2015; 6:547-61. [PMID: 26140477 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Understanding how genetic novelties arise is a central goal of evolutionary biology. To this end, programmed DNA elimination and RNA splicing deserve special consideration. While programmed DNA elimination reshapes genomes by eliminating chromatin during organismal development, RNA splicing rearranges genetic messages by removing intronic regions during transcription. Small RNAs help to mediate this class of sequence reorganization, which is not error-free. It is this imperfection that makes programmed DNA elimination and RNA splicing excellent candidates for generating evolutionary novelties. Leveraging a number of these two processes' mechanistic and evolutionary properties, which have been uncovered over the past years, we present recently proposed models and empirical evidence for how splicing can shape the structure of protein-coding genes in eukaryotes. We also chronicle a number of intriguing similarities between the processes of programmed DNA elimination and RNA splicing, and highlight the role that the variation in the population-genetic environment may play in shaping their target sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jürgen Schmitz
- Institute of Experimental Pathology (ZMBE), University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Norouzitallab P, Baruah K, Vandegehuchte M, Van Stappen G, Catania F, Bussche JV, Vanhaecke L, Sorgeloos P, Bossier P. Environmental heat stress induces epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of robustness in parthenogenetic
Artemia
model. FASEB J 2014; 28:3552-63. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-252049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Norouzitallab
- Laboratory of AquacultureGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Artemia Reference CenterGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | - Kartik Baruah
- Laboratory of AquacultureGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Artemia Reference CenterGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | - Michiel Vandegehuchte
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic EcologyGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | - Gilbert Van Stappen
- Laboratory of AquacultureGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Artemia Reference CenterGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of MünsterMünsterGermany
| | | | - Lynn Vanhaecke
- Laboratory of Chemical AnalysisGhent UniversityMerelbekeBelgium
| | - Patrick Sorgeloos
- Laboratory of AquacultureGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Artemia Reference CenterGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
| | - Peter Bossier
- Laboratory of AquacultureGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
- Artemia Reference CenterGhent UniversityGhentBelgium
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20
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Abstract
Despite playing a crucial role in germline-soma differentiation, the evolutionary significance of developmentally regulated genome rearrangements (DRGRs) has received scant attention. An example of DRGR is DNA splicing, a process that removes segments of DNA interrupting genic and/or intergenic sequences. Perhaps, best known for shaping immune-system genes in vertebrates, DNA splicing plays a central role in the life of ciliated protozoa, where thousands of germline DNA segments are eliminated after sexual reproduction to regenerate a functional somatic genome. Here, we identify and chronicle the properties of 5,286 sequences that putatively undergo DNA splicing (i.e., internal eliminated sequences [IESs]) across the genomes of three closely related species of the ciliate Paramecium (P. tetraurelia, P. biaurelia, and P. sexaurelia). The study reveals that these putative IESs share several physical characteristics. Although our results are consistent with excision events being largely conserved between species, episodes of differential IES retention/excision occur, may have a recent origin, and frequently involve coding regions. Our findings indicate interconversion between somatic--often coding--DNA sequences and noncoding IESs, and provide insights into the role of DNA splicing in creating potentially functional genetic innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Germany
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21
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Catania F, Lynch M. A simple model to explain evolutionary trends of eukaryotic gene architecture and expression: how competition between splicing and cleavage/polyadenylation factors may affect gene expression and splice-site recognition in eukaryotes. Bioessays 2013; 35:561-70. [PMID: 23568225 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201200127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Enormous phylogenetic variation exists in the number and sizes of introns in protein-coding genes. Although some consideration has been given to the underlying role of the population-genetic environment in defining such patterns, the influence of the intracellular environment remains virtually unexplored. Drawing from observations on interactions between co-transcriptional processes involved in splicing and mRNA 3'-end formation, a mechanistic model is proposed for splice-site recognition that challenges the commonly accepted intron- and exon-definition models. Under the suggested model, splicing factors that outcompete 3'-end processing factors for access to intronic binding sites concurrently favor the recruitment of 3'-end processing factors at the pre-mRNA tail. This hypothesis sheds new light on observations such as the intron-mediated enhancement of gene expression and the negative correlation between intron length and levels of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
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22
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Abstract
Recent observations on rates of mutation, recombination, and random genetic drift highlight the dramatic ways in which fundamental evolutionary processes vary across the divide between unicellular microbes and multicellular eukaryotes. Moreover, population-genetic theory suggests that the range of variation in these parameters is sufficient to explain the evolutionary diversification of many aspects of genome size and gene structure found among phylogenetic lineages. Most notably, large eukaryotic organisms that experience elevated magnitudes of random genetic drift are susceptible to the passive accumulation of mutationally hazardous DNA that would otherwise be eliminated by efficient selection. Substantial evidence also suggests that variation in the population-genetic environment influences patterns of protein evolution, with the emergence of certain kinds of amino-acid substitutions and protein-protein complexes only being possible in populations with relatively small effective sizes. These observations imply that the ultimate origins of many of the major genomic and proteomic disparities between prokaryotes and eukaryotes and among eukaryotic lineages have been molded as much by intrinsic variation in the genetic and cellular features of species as by external ecological forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lynch
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47408, USA.
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23
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Catania F, Lynch M. Evolutionary dynamics of a conserved sequence motif in the ribosomal genes of the ciliate Paramecium. BMC Evol Biol 2010; 10:129. [PMID: 20441586 PMCID: PMC2874801 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-10-129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In protozoa, the identification of preserved motifs by comparative genomics is often impeded by difficulties to generate reliable alignments for non-coding sequences. Moreover, the evolutionary dynamics of regulatory elements in 3' untranslated regions (both in protozoa and metazoa) remains a virtually unexplored issue. Results By screening Paramecium tetraurelia's 3' untranslated regions for 8-mers that were previously found to be preserved in mammalian 3' UTRs, we detect and characterize a motif that is distinctly conserved in the ribosomal genes of this ciliate. The motif appears to be conserved across Paramecium aurelia species but is absent from the ribosomal genes of four additional non-Paramecium species surveyed, including another ciliate, Tetrahymena thermophila. Motif-free ribosomal genes retain fewer paralogs in the genome and appear to be lost more rapidly relative to motif-containing genes. Features associated with the discovered preserved motif are consistent with this 8-mer playing a role in post-transcriptional regulation. Conclusions Our observations 1) shed light on the evolution of a putative regulatory motif across large phylogenetic distances; 2) are expected to facilitate the understanding of the modulation of ribosomal genes expression in Paramecium; and 3) reveal a largely unexplored--and presumably not restricted to Paramecium--association between the presence/absence of a DNA motif and the evolutionary fate of its host genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, 1001E 3rd Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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Dorizzi RM, Ozzola G, Sommella C, Catania F, Lelli F, Migali E, Polverini G. An approach to establish reference intervals for thyrotropin in pregnancy using the ADVIA Centaur analyzer. Clin Lab 2010; 56:417-425. [PMID: 21086787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reference values for thyrotropin (TSH) from weeks 5 to 17 of pregnancy in women living in a moderately iodine-deficient area in Italy have never been calculated using the Advia Centaur analyzer. METHODS TSH was measured in surplus blood samples drawn from 657 pregnant women: 101 in weeks 5-6 (group I), 333 in weeks 7-8 (group II), 139 in weeks 9-10 (group III), 44 in weeks 11-12 (group IV), and 40 in weeks 13-17 (group V) of pregnancy. Health-Related Limits (HRLs) were calculated with GraphROC software using the indirect Kairisto's procedure and the "robust method" advocated by the CLSI C28-A3 Guideline. RESULTS The HRLs of TSH concentration (indirect method) were 0.36 - 3.78 mU/L in group I, 0.19 - 3.07 mU/L in group II, 0.23 - 2.90 mU/L in group III, 0.13 - 3.28 mU/L in group IV, and 0.45 - 3.90 mU/L in group V. The Upper Reference Limit calculated using the robust method decreased in group II-IV and increased in group V. CONCLUSIONS TSH concentration decreases in the second half of the first trimester of pregnancy and increases in the second trimester. The indirect method is reliable for calculating HRLs for TSH in pregnancy, as confirmed by the robust method. The TSH concentrations in group I were statistically different from those of groups II, III, and IV, but not of those of group V.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romolo M Dorizzi
- U.O.C. Corelab, Laboratorio Unico di AvR, Pievesestina, Cesena (FC), Italy.
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25
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Abstract
Over 30 years since their discovery, the origin of spliceosomal introns remains uncertain. One nearly universally accepted hypothesis maintains that spliceosomal introns originated from self-splicing group-II introns that invaded the uninterrupted genes of the last eukaryotic common ancestor (LECA) and proliferated by "insertion" events. Although this is a possible explanation for the original presence of introns and splicing machinery, the emphasis on a high number of insertion events in the genome of the LECA neglects a considerable body of empirical evidence showing that spliceosomal introns can simply arise from coding or, more generally, nonintronic sequences within genes. After presenting a concise overview of some of the most common hypotheses and mechanisms for intron origin, we propose two further hypotheses that are broadly based on central cellular processes: 1) internal gene duplication and 2) the response to aberrant and fortuitously spliced transcripts. These two nonmutually exclusive hypotheses provide a powerful way to explain the establishment of spliceosomal introns in eukaryotes without invoking an exogenous source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Catania
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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Abstract
Current understanding of the population genetics of free-living unicellular eukaryotes is limited, and the amount of genetic variability in these organisms is still a matter of debate. We characterized-reproductively and genetically-worldwide samples of multiple Paramecium species belonging to a cryptic species complex, Paramecium aurelia, whose species have been shown to be reproductively isolated. We found that levels of genetic diversity both in the nucleus and in the mitochondrion are substantial within groups of reproductively compatible P. aurelia strains but drop considerably when strains are partitioned according to their phylogenetic groupings. Our study reveals the existence of discrepancies between the mating behavior of a number of P. aurelia strains and their multilocus genetic profile, a controversial finding that has major consequences for both the current methods of species assignment and the species problem in the P. aurelia complex.
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Schöfl G, Catania F, Nolte V, Schlötterer C. African sequence variation accounts for most of the sequence polymorphism in non-African Drosophila melanogaster. Genetics 2005; 170:1701-9. [PMID: 15937137 PMCID: PMC1449792 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.104.037507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared the sequence polymorphism of 12 genomic fragments in six geographically dispersed African populations to one European Drosophila melanogaster population. On the basis of one African and one European population half of these fragments have strongly reduced levels of variability outside of Africa. Despite this striking difference in European variation, we detected no significant difference in African variation between the two fragment classes. The joint analysis of all African populations indicated that all high-frequency European alleles are of African origin. We observed a negative Tajima's D in all African populations, with three populations deviating significantly from neutral equilibrium. Low, but statistically significant, population differentiation was observed among the African populations. Our results imply that the population structure and demographic past of African D. melanogaster populations need to be considered for the inference of footprints of selection in non-African populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Schöfl
- Institut für Tierzucht und Genetik, Veterinärmedizinische Universität, A-1210 Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
It is well understood that the out-of-Africa habitat expansion of D. melanogaster was associated with the fixation of many beneficial mutations. Nevertheless, it is not clear yet whether these beneficial mutations segregated already in Africa or originated outside of Africa. In this article, we describe an ongoing selective sweep specific to one European population. One microsatellite allele has increased in a population from The Netherlands to a frequency of 18%, whereas it is virtually absent in 12 other European populations. The selective sweep resulted in a genomic region of more than 600 kb that is identical by descent. This is probably the first evidence of a beneficial mutation that has arisen outside of Africa and has resulted in a selective sweep localized in a population from The Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Catania
- Institut für Tierzucht und Genetik, Wien, Austria
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Catania F, Kauer MO, Daborn PJ, Yen JL, Ffrench-Constant RH, Schlotterer C. World-wide survey of an Accord insertion and its association with DDT resistance in Drosophila melanogaster. Mol Ecol 2004; 13:2491-504. [PMID: 15245421 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2004.02263.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Previous work showed that insecticide resistance in Drosophila melanogaster is correlated with the insertion of an Accord-like element into the 5' region of the cytochrome P450 gene, Cyp6g1. Here, we study the distribution of the Accord-like element in 673 recently collected D. melanogaster lines from 34 world-wide populations. We also examine the extent of microsatellite variability along a 180-kilobase (kb) genomic region of chromosome II encompassing the resistance gene. We confirm a 100% correlation of the Accord insertion with insecticide resistance and a significant reduction in variability extending at least 20 kb downstream of the Cyp6g1 gene. The frequency of the Accord insertion differs significantly between East African (32-55%) and nonAfrican (85-100%) populations. This pattern is consistent with a selective sweep driving the Accord insertion close to fixation in nonAfrican populations as a result of the insecticide resistance phenotype it confers. This study confirms that hitchhiking mapping can be used to identify beneficial mutations in natural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Catania
- Institut für Tierzucht und Genetik, University of Wien, Josef Baumann Gasse 1, 1210 Wien, Austria
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Menezes G, Euscher E, Schwartz B, Catania F, Chancellor J, Nuovo GJ. Utility of the in situ detection of HPV in Pap smears diagnosed as within normal limits. Acta Cytol 2001; 45:919-26. [PMID: 11726118 DOI: 10.1159/000328364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical significance in normal Pap smears of HPV detection as determined by Hybrid Capture (HC) and in situ hybridization analyses. STUDY DESIGN We studied 135 consecutive Pap smears as well as 46 other smears from high-risk patients each initially diagnosed as within normal limits. RESULTS The 135 "normal" Pap smears were rescreened, and 6 (4%) where found to be either ASCUS or SIL. In the remaining 129 cases, HPV DNA was detected in 0% and 9%, respectively, using in situ hybridization and HC I. Upon rescreening the high-risk patients, nine (20%) were reclassified as having SIL/ASCUS; each was in situ hybridization positive, and eight were HC positive; six (67%) of these women developed SIL on follow-up. In the 37 Pap smears in high-risk women still within normal limits after manual rescreening, HPV was detected in 2% by in situ hybridization and 46% by HC; 6% of the HC-positive women developed SIL on follow-up. CONCLUSION In situ hybridization rarely detects HPV in Pap smears diagnosed as within normal limits after manual rescreening. In situ hybridization is very effective in detecting rare, atypical cells in Pap smears diagnosed as within normal limits and, in a high-risk population, is predictive of SIL on clinical follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Menezes
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus 43210, USA
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Morrison C, Catania F, Wakely P, Nuovo GJ. Highly differentiated keratinizing squamous cell cancer of the cervix: a rare, locally aggressive tumor not associated with human papillomavirus or squamous intraepithelial lesions. Am J Surg Pathol 2001; 25:1310-5. [PMID: 11688467 DOI: 10.1097/00000478-200110000-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to report an unusual variant of cervical squamous cell carcinoma, not associated with either human papillomavirus infection or antecedent squamous intraepithelial lesions. Five women had a diagnosis of invasive cervical cancer discovered at hysterectomy performed for prolapse (two cases), leiomyoma (one case), or a vaginal fistula (two cases). The women ranged in age from 47 to 78 years (mean 59 years). Four of the five had a history of normal Papanicolaou (Pap) smears; the other had a Pap smear diagnosis of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS). All had large cervical tumors (two with parametrial involvement and one with vaginal involvement) that showed extensive keratin formation, an inverted pattern of growth, and, except for one case, minimal cytologic atypia. There was extensive hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis adjacent to each tumor; none had evidence of squamous intraepithelial lesion. Human papillomavirus testing by polymerase chain reaction in situ hybridization and reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction in situ was negative in each case, compared with a detection rate of 107 of 108 (99%) for squamous intraepithelial lesion-associated cervical squamous cell and adenocarcinomas. Two of the women died of extensive local recurrence; two other women were recently diagnosed. We conclude that highly differentiated keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is a rare entity not associated with human papillomavirus infection or squamous intraepithelial lesion and thus difficult to detect on routine cervical cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Morrison
- Department of Pathology, Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus 43210, USA
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