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Morgan NV, Morris MR, Cangul H, Gleeson D, Straatman-Iwanowska A, Davies N, Keenan S, Pasha S, Rahman F, Gentle D, Vreeswijk MPG, Devilee P, Knowles MA, Ceylaner S, Trembath RC, Dalence C, Kismet E, Köseoğlu V, Rossbach HC, Gissen P, Tannahill D, Maher ER. Mutations in SLC29A3, encoding an equilibrative nucleoside transporter ENT3, cause a familial histiocytosis syndrome (Faisalabad histiocytosis) and familial Rosai-Dorfman disease. PLoS Genet 2010; 6:e1000833. [PMID: 20140240 PMCID: PMC2816679 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1000833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2009] [Accepted: 01/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The histiocytoses are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by an excessive number of histiocytes. In most cases the pathophysiology is unclear and treatment is nonspecific. Faisalabad histiocytosis (FHC) (MIM 602782) has been classed as an autosomal recessively inherited form of histiocytosis with similarities to Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) (also known as sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SHML)). To elucidate the molecular basis of FHC, we performed autozygosity mapping studies in a large consanguineous family and identified a novel locus at chromosome 10q22.1. Mutation analysis of candidate genes within the target interval identified biallelic germline mutations in SLC29A3 in the FHC kindred and in two families reported to have familial RDD. Analysis of SLC29A3 expression during mouse embryogenesis revealed widespread expression by e14.5 with prominent expression in the central nervous system, eye, inner ear, and epithelial tissues including the gastrointestinal tract. SLC29A3 encodes an intracellular equilibrative nucleoside transporter (hENT3) with affinity for adenosine. Recently germline mutations in SLC29A3 were also described in two rare autosomal recessive disorders with overlapping phenotypes: (a) H syndrome (MIM 612391) that is characterised by cutaneous hyperpigmentation and hypertrichosis, hepatomegaly, heart anomalies, hearing loss, and hypogonadism; and (b) PHID (pigmented hypertrichosis with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) syndrome. Our findings suggest that a variety of clinical diagnoses (H and PHID syndromes, FHC, and familial RDD) can be included in a new diagnostic category of SLC29A3 spectrum disorder. The histiocytoses are a group of systemic disorders usually confined to childhood and are caused by an excessive number of histiocytes which phagocytose other cells and process antigens. Although nearly a century has passed since histiocytic disorders were recognised, their pathophysiology remains largely unclear, and treatment is nonspecific. The identification of SLC29A3 mutations as the molecular basis for a familial form of syndromic histiocytosis (FHC/RDD) confirms a direct link between Faisalabad histiocytosis and Rosai-Dorfman disease and links these disorders to other SLC29A3-associated phenotypes.
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Snape KMG, Ruddy D, Zenker M, Wuyts W, Whiteford M, Johnson D, Lam W, Trembath RC. The spectra of clinical phenotypes in aplasia cutis congenita and terminal transverse limb defects. Am J Med Genet A 2009; 149A:1860-81. [PMID: 19610107 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.32708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The combination of aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) and terminal transverse limb defects (TTLD) is often referred to as the eponymous Adams-Oliver syndrome (AOS). The molecular basis of this disorder remains unknown, although the common occurrence of cardiac and vascular anomalies suggests a primary defect of vasculogenesis. Through the description of three previously unreported affected individuals, ascertained through the Adams-Oliver Syndrome European Consortium, we illustrate the phenotypic variability characteristically observed within extended families with AOS. Taken in combination with a detailed review of the available literature, we provide evidence for distinct clinical entities within the ACC/TTLD spectrum, which may reflect genetic heterogeneity within this spectrum of disorders.
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Capon F, Boulding H, Quaranta M, Mortimer NJ, Setterfield JF, Black MM, Trembath RC, Harman KE. Genetic analysis of desmoglein 3 (DSG3) sequence variants in patients with pemphigus vulgaris. Br J Dermatol 2009; 161:1403-5. [PMID: 19678820 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2009.09429.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Machado RD, Eickelberg O, Elliott CG, Geraci MW, Hanaoka M, Loyd JE, Newman JH, Phillips JA, Soubrier F, Trembath RC, Chung WK. Genetics and genomics of pulmonary arterial hypertension. J Am Coll Cardiol 2009; 54:S32-S42. [PMID: 19555857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2009.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disorder that may be hereditable (HPAH), idiopathic (IPAH), or associated with either drug-toxin exposures or other medical conditions. Familial cases have long been recognized and are usually due to mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 gene (BMPR2), or, much less commonly, 2 other members of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, activin-like kinase-type 1 (ALK1) and endoglin (ENG), which are associated with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. In addition, approximately 20% of patients with IPAH carry mutations in BMPR2. We provide a summary of BMPR2 mutations associated with HPAH, most of which are unique to each family and are presumed to result in loss of function. We review the finding of missense variants and variants of unknown significance in BMPR2 in IPAH/HPAH, fenfluramine exposure, and PAH associated with congenital heart disease. Clinical testing for BMPR2 mutations is available and may be offered to HPAH and IPAH patients but should be preceded by genetic counseling, since lifetime penetrance is only 10% to 20%, and there are currently no known effective preventative measures. Identification of a familial mutation can be valuable in reproductive planning and identifying family members who are not mutation carriers and thus will not require lifelong surveillance. With advances in genomic technology and with international collaborative efforts, genome-wide association studies will be conducted to identify additional genes for HPAH, genetic modifiers for BMPR2 penetrance and genetic susceptibility to IPAH. In addition, collaborative studies of BMPR2 mutation carriers should enable identification of environmental modifiers, biomarkers for disease development and progression, and surrogate markers for efficacy end points in clinical drug development, thereby providing an invaluable resource for trials of PAH prevention.
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Upton PD, Davies RJ, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and activin type II receptors balance BMP9 signals mediated by activin receptor-like kinase-1 in human pulmonary artery endothelial cells. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:15794-804. [PMID: 19366699 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.002881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) receptor superfamily members underlie conditions characterized by vascular dysplasia. Mutations in endoglin and activin-like kinase receptor 1 (ALK1) cause hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, whereas bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR-II) mutations underlie familial pulmonary arterial hypertension. To understand the functional roles of these receptors, we examined their relative contributions to BMP signaling in human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (HPAECs). BMP9 potently and selectively induced Smad1/5 phosphorylation and Id gene expression in HPAECs. Contrary to expectations, BMP9 also stimulated Smad2 activation. Furthermore, BMP9 induced the expression of interleukin 8 and E-selectin. Using small interfering RNA, we demonstrate that the type I receptor, ALK1, is essential for these responses. However, small interfering RNA and inhibitor studies showed no involvement of ALK5 or endoglin. We further demonstrate that, of the candidate type II receptors, BMPR-II predominantly mediated IL-8 and E-selectin induction and mitogenic inhibition by BMP9. Conversely, activin receptor type II (ActR-II) contributed more to BMP9-mediated Smad2 activation. Only abolition of both type II receptors significantly reduced the Smad1/5 and Id responses. Both ALK1 and BMPR-II contributed to growth inhibition of HPAECs, whereas ActR-II was not involved. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the critical role of type II receptors in balancing BMP9 signaling via ALK1 and emphasize the essential role for BMPR-II in a subset of BMP9 responses (interleukin 8, E-selectin, and proliferation). This differential signaling may contribute to the contrasting pathologies of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Abstract
The realization of scientific discovery being delivered to patients for their clinical benefit is termed Translational Medicine. This requires the bridging of excellence in both basic scientific endeavour and clinical care. Whilst there is consensus that it is important to drive translation for the benefit of patient care, the mechanism whereby this is to be achieved is less clear. In this article, we describe a novel strategy for the realization of effective translation that encompasses capacity building, a flexible proof of concept in man and the creation of a translational faculty adjacent to clinical research facilities that forms the basis of our NIHR Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre. The opportunity to deliver world-class biomedical research from within the UK has never been greater.
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Sobolewski A, Rudarakanchana N, Upton PD, Yang J, Crilley TK, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. Failure of bone morphogenetic protein receptor trafficking in pulmonary arterial hypertension: potential for rescue. Hum Mol Genet 2008; 17:3180-90. [PMID: 18647753 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddn214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous germline mutations in the gene encoding the bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor cause familial pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We previously demonstrated that the substitution of cysteine residues in the ligand-binding domain of this receptor prevents receptor trafficking to the cell membrane. Here we demonstrate the potential for chemical chaperones to rescue cell-surface expression of mutant BMPR-II and restore function. HeLa cells were transiently transfected with BMPR-II wild type or mutant (C118W) receptor constructs. Immunolocalization studies confirmed the retention of the cysteine mutant receptor mainly in the endoplasmic reticulum. Co-immunoprecipitation studies of Myc-tagged BMPR-II confirmed that the cysteine-substituted ligand-binding domain mutation, C118W, is able to associate with BMP type I receptors. Furthermore, following treatment with a panel of chemical chaperones (thapsigargin, glycerol or sodium 4-phenylbutyrate), we demonstrated a marked increase in cell-surface expression of mutant C118W BMPR-II by FACS analysis and confocal microscopy. These agents also enhanced the trafficking of wild-type BMPR-II, though to a lesser extent. Increased cell-surface expression of mutant C118W BMPR-II was associated with enhanced Smad1/5 phosphorylation in response to BMPs. These findings demonstrate the potential for rescue of mutant BMPR-II function from the endoplasmic reticulum. For the C118W mutation in the ligand-binding domain of BMPR-II, cell-surface rescue leads to at least partial restoration of BMP signalling. We conclude that enhancement of cell-surface trafficking of mutant and wild-type BMPR-II may have therapeutic potential in familial PAH.
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Yang J, Davies RJ, Southwood M, Long L, Yang X, Sobolewski A, Upton PD, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. Mutations in bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor cause dysregulation of Id gene expression in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells: implications for familial pulmonary arterial hypertension. Circ Res 2008; 102:1212-21. [PMID: 18436795 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.108.173567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Heterozygous germ line mutations in the gene encoding the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type II receptor occur in more than 80% of patients with familial pulmonary arterial hypertension. Because inhibitors of DNA binding (Id) genes are major targets of BMP/Smad signaling, we studied the regulation of these transcription factors in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells harboring mutations in BMP type II receptor and control cells. Mutant cells demonstrated a marked deficiency in BMP4-stimulated Id1 and Id2 gene and protein expression compared with control cells. Mutant cells were deficient in Smad1/5 signaling in response to BMPs but also in extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 activation. We provide evidence for an important interaction between Smad1/5 and ERK1/2 signaling in the regulation of Id gene expression. Thus, BMP4-induced Id1 expression was negatively regulated by ERK1/2 activation. The mechanism involves ERK1/2-dependent phosphorylation of the Smad1 linker region (serine 206), which limits C-terminal serine 463/465 phosphorylation and inhibits Smad nuclear accumulation. Furthermore, activation of ERK1/2 by platelet-derived growth factor BB also caused Smad1 linker region phosphorylation and inhibited BMP4-induced Id1 gene expression. In contrast, Id2 expression was positively regulated by ERK1/2. Moreover, we show that both BMP type II receptor mutation and Id1 knockdown leads to loss of growth suppression by BMPs. Taken together, these findings indicate an important interaction between ERK1/2 and Smad1/5 in the regulation of Id genes. Platelet-derived growth factor, via ERK1/2, further impairs the deficiency in Smad signaling found in BMP type II receptor mutant cells. The integration of these signals at the level of Id gene expression may contribute to the pathogenesis of familial pulmonary arterial hypertension.
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Capon F, Bijlmakers MJ, Wolf N, Quaranta M, Huffmeier U, Allen M, Timms K, Abkevich V, Gutin A, Smith R, Warren RB, Young HS, Worthington J, Burden AD, Griffiths CEM, Hayday A, Nestle FO, Reis A, Lanchbury J, Barker JN, Trembath RC. Identification of ZNF313/RNF114 as a novel psoriasis susceptibility gene. Hum Mol Genet 2008; 17:1938-45. [PMID: 18364390 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddn091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disorder that is inherited as a multifactorial trait. Linkage studies have clearly identified a primary disease susceptibility locus lying within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), but have generated conflicting results for other genomic regions. To overcome this difficulty, we have carried out a genome-wide association scan, where we analyzed more than 408,000 SNPs in an initial sample of 318 cases and 288 controls. Outside of the MHC, we observed a single cluster of disease-associated markers, spanning 47 kb on chromosome 20q13. The analysis of two replication data sets confirmed this association, with SNP rs495337 yielding a combined P-value of 1.4 x 10(-8) in an overall sample of 2679 cases and 2215 controls. Rs495337 maps to the SPATA2 transcript and is in absolute linkage disequilibrium with five SNPs lying in the adjacent ZNF313 gene (also known as RNF114). Real-time PCR experiments showed that, unlike SPATA2, ZNF313 is abundantly expressed in skin, T-lymphocytes and dendritic cells. Furthermore, an analysis of the expression data available from the Genevar database indicated that rs495337 is associated with increased ZNF313 transcripts levels (P = 0.003), suggesting that the disease susceptibility allele may be a ZNF313 regulatory variant tagged by rs495337. Homology searches indicated that ZNF313 is a paralogue of TRAC-1, an ubiquitin ligase regulating T-cell activation. We performed cell-free assays and confirmed that like TRAC-1, ZNF313 binds ubiquitin via an ubiquitin-interaction motif (UIM). These findings collectively identify a novel psoriasis susceptibility gene, with a putative role in the regulation of immune responses.
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Nasim MT, Ghouri A, Patel B, James V, Rudarakanchana N, Morrell NW, Trembath RC. Stoichiometric imbalance in the receptor complex contributes to dysfunctional BMPR-II mediated signalling in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Hum Mol Genet 2008; 17:1683-94. [PMID: 18321866 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddn059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterozygous germline defects in a gene encoding a type II receptor for bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPR-II) underlie the majority of inherited cases of the vascular disorder known as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, the precise molecular consequences of PAH causing mutations on the function of the receptor complex remain unclear. We employed novel enzymatic and fluorescence activity based techniques to assess the impact of PAH mutations on pre-mRNA splicing, nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) and receptor complex interactions. We demonstrate that nonsense and frameshift mutations trigger NMD, providing further evidence that haplo-insufficiency is a major molecular consequence of disease-related BMPR2 mutations. We identified heterogeneous functional defects in BMPR-II activity, including impaired type I receptor phosphorylation, receptor interactions and altered receptor complex stoichiometry leading to perturbation of downstream signalling pathways. Importantly, these studies demonstrate that the intracellular domain of BMPR-II is both necessary and sufficient for receptor complex interaction. Finally and to address the potential for resolution of stoichiometric balance, we investigated an agent that promotes translational readthrough of a BMPR2 nonsense reporter construct without interfering with the NMD pathway. We propose that stoichiometric imbalance, due to either haplo-insufficiency or loss of optimal receptor-receptor interactions impairs BMPR-II mediated signalling in PAH. Taken together, these studies have identified an important target for early therapeutic intervention in familial PAH.
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Southwood M, Jeffery TK, Yang X, Upton PD, Hall SM, Atkinson C, Haworth SG, Stewart S, Reynolds PN, Long L, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. Regulation of bone morphogenetic protein signalling in human pulmonary vascular development. J Pathol 2008; 214:85-95. [PMID: 17992660 DOI: 10.1002/path.2261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) type II receptor (BMPR-II) is predominantly expressed on the vascular endothelium in the adult lung. Although mutations in BMPR-II are known to underlie many cases of familial pulmonary arterial hypertension (FPAH), little is known regarding the expression of BMPs and their signalling pathways during normal lung development or the impact of BMPR-II mutations on endothelial cell function. We determined the cellular localization and expression levels of BMP4, BMP receptors, and activation of downstream signalling via phospho-Smad1 in a developmental series of human embryonic and fetal lungs by immunohistochemistry. The expression of BMP4 and BMP receptors was temporally and spatially regulated during lung development. BMPR-II expression correlated with phosphorylation of tissue Smad1 and was highest during the late pseudoglandular and early canalicular stage of lung development, when vasculogenesis is intense. Phospho-Smad1 expression was associated with markers of proliferation in endothelial cells. In vitro studies confirmed that BMPs 2 and 4 induced phosphorylation of Smad1/5 and pulmonary artery endothelial cell (PAEC) migration and proliferation. Adenoviral transfection of PAECs with mutant kinase-deficient BMPR-II, or siRNA knockdown of BMPR-II, inhibited Smad signalling and the proliferative response to BMP4. Our findings support a critical role for BMPs in lung vasculogenesis. Dysfunctional BMP signalling in PAECs during development may lead to abnormal pulmonary vascular development and contribute to the pathogenesis of FPAH.
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Wolf N, Quaranta M, Prescott NJ, Allen M, Smith R, Burden AD, Worthington J, Griffiths CEM, Mathew CG, Barker JN, Capon F, Trembath RC. Psoriasis is associated with pleiotropic susceptibility loci identified in type II diabetes and Crohn disease. J Med Genet 2007; 45:114-6. [PMID: 17993580 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2007.053595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psoriasis is an immune-mediated skin disorder that is inherited as a multifactorial trait. Linkage analyses have clearly mapped a primary disease susceptibility locus to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region on chromosome 6p21. More recently, whole-genome association studies have identified two non-MHC disease genes (IL12B and IL23R), both of which also confer susceptibility to Crohn disease (CD). OBJECTIVE AND METHODS To ascertain the genetic overlap between these two inflammatory conditions further, we investigated 15 CD-associated loci in a psoriasis case-control dataset. RESULTS The analysis of 1256 patients and 2938 unrelated controls found significant associations for loci mapping to chromosomes 1q24 (rs12035082, p = 0.009), 6p22 (rs6908425, p = 0.00015) and 21q22 (rs2836754, p = 0.0003). Notably, the marker showing the strongest phenotypic effect (rs6908425) maps to CDKAL1, a gene also associated with type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS These results substantiate emerging evidence for a pleiotropic role for s genes that contribute to the pathogenesis of immune-mediated disorders.
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113
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Upton PD, Long L, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. Functional Characterization of Bone Morphogenetic Protein Binding Sites and Smad1/5 Activation in Human Vascular Cells. Mol Pharmacol 2007; 73:539-52. [DOI: 10.1124/mol.107.041673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Aldred MA, Machado RD, James V, Morrell NW, Trembath RC. Characterization of theBMPR25′-Untranslated Region and a Novel Mutation in Pulmonary Hypertension. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2007; 176:819-24. [PMID: 17641158 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200701-164oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Familial pulmonary arterial hypertension results from heterozygous inactivating mutations of the BMPR2 gene. Traditional mutation analysis identifies pathogenic mutations in some 70% of linked families. We hypothesized that the apparent shortfall is due to mutations located in the promoter region of the gene, resulting in abnormal gene regulation. OBJECTIVES To identify mutations in untranslated sequence regulating BMPR2 transcription. METHODS DNA upstream of the coding region was analyzed by direct sequencing in 16 families. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis and rapid amplification of cDNA ends of normal human lung RNA were used to investigate transcription of this region. Transcript levels were assessed by allele-specific expression analysis and inhibition of nonsense-mediated decay in lymphoblastoid cell lines. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS The wild-type transcriptional start site of BMPR2 was defined, 1,148 bp upstream of the ATG. Within this region, we identified a double-substitution mutation, predicted to form a cryptic translational start site, in one family. The mutant transcript contains a premature stop codon predicted to trigger nonsense-mediated decay. Expression analysis in the patient's cell line indeed showed reduced expression of the mutant transcript that could be restored to normal by inhibiting nonsense-mediated decay. CONCLUSIONS Activation of a cryptic translation initiation site is a novel mutational mechanism in this disorder. These results demonstrate that the 5'-untranslated region of BMPR2 is considerably longer than previously thought, emphasizing the need to fully characterize the BMPR2 promoter and the importance of analyzing noncoding regions in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension who are negative for mutations within the coding region and intron-exon junctions.
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Yang X, Lee PJ, Long L, Trembath RC, Morrell NW. BMP4 induces HO-1 via a Smad-independent, p38MAPK-dependent pathway in pulmonary artery myocytes. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2007; 37:598-605. [PMID: 17600318 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2006-0360oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional cytokines, which play a key role in vascular development and remodeling. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), the rate-limiting enzyme in heme catabolism, has been shown to be protective against vascular and lung injury. In a microarray study, we identified HO-1 as a major target of BMP4 signaling in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), and confirmed the induction of HO-1 mRNA and protein by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Immunoblotting demonstrated that incubation of PASMCs with BMP4 rapidly phosphorylated Smad1/5 and activated the mitogen-activated protein kinases, p38(MAPK) and ERK1/2, in PASMCs, but not JNK. Using pathway selective inhibitors, the induction of HO-1 mRNA and protein was shown to be dependent on activation of p38(MAPK). Induction was independent of Smad1/5 signaling, since HO-1 mRNA and protein induction was intact in PASMCs harboring mutations in the kinase domain of BMP type II receptor, with disrupted Smad signaling. In addition, adenoviral transfection of kinase-deficient BMPR-II also failed to inhibit BMP4-induced HO-1 expression. In functional studies, the HO-1 inhibitor, ZnPP-IX, partly reversed the growth-inhibitory effects of BMP4, and overexpression of HO-1 in PASMCs inhibited serum-stimulated [3H]-thymidine incorporation. Taken together, these findings show that HO-1 is an important Smad-independent target of BMP signaling in vascular smooth muscle. Inhibition of HO-1 function or expression will further increase the proproliferative capacity of BMPR-II-deficient PASMCs and may thus represent a potential "second hit" necessary for disease manifestation.
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Capon F, Di Meglio P, Szaub J, Prescott NJ, Dunster C, Baumber L, Timms K, Gutin A, Abkevic V, Burden AD, Lanchbury J, Barker JN, Trembath RC, Nestle FO. Sequence variants in the genes for the interleukin-23 receptor (IL23R) and its ligand (IL12B) confer protection against psoriasis. Hum Genet 2007; 122:201-6. [PMID: 17587057 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-007-0397-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 332] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2007] [Accepted: 06/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disorder that is inherited as a multifactorial trait. Genetic analyses have repeatedly identified a primary disease susceptibility locus lying within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), on chromosome 6p21. A small number of non-MHC susceptibility loci have also been identified. These regions tend to overlap with susceptibility intervals for Crohn's disease and atopic dermatitis, suggesting the possibility that genetic variants affecting inflammatory pathways may contribute to the pathogenesis of multiple disorders. Here, we report a genetic analysis of the interleukin 23 receptor gene (IL23R), which was recently identified as a susceptibility determinant for Crohn's disease. We initially examined the results of a whole-genome association scan, carried out on 318 cases and 288 controls. We observed a significant increase of a non-synonymous substitution (p.Arg381Gln) among controls (P = 0.00036). We validated this finding by extending our cohort to include a further 519 cases and 528 controls. In the overall sample, the frequency of the 381Gln allele was 3.6% in cases and 7% in controls, yielding a P value of 0.00014. Next, we examined genetic variation at the IL12RB1, IL23A and IL12B genes, respectively, encoding the second subunit of the IL23R receptor and the two subunits of its ligand. This analysis identified independent associations for IL12B SNPs rs10045431 (P value for the extended dataset = 0.0001) and rs3212227 (P = 0.036). Altogether, these findings indicate that genes participating in IL23 signalling play a significant role in the pathogenesis of chronic epithelial inflammation.
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Zhao Y, Terron-Kwiatkowski A, Liao H, Lee SP, Allen MH, Hull PR, Campbell LE, Trembath RC, Capon F, Griffiths CEM, Burden D, McManus R, Hughes R, Kirby B, Rogers SF, Fitzgerald O, Kane D, Barker JNWN, Palmer CNA, Irvine AD, McLean WHI. Filaggrin null alleles are not associated with psoriasis. J Invest Dermatol 2007; 127:1878-82. [PMID: 17410197 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a common skin disease with an etiology consistent with a multifactorial trait. Several psoriasis susceptibility loci are known, a number of which are also implicated in a predisposition to atopic dermatitis (AD), including the epidermal differentiation complex on chromosome 1q21. It has recently been shown in several replicate studies that prevalent null alleles for the filaggrin gene (FLG) on 1q21 are an important genetic factor in AD. Here, we examined the role of these FLG variants in psoriasis using case:control association studies comparing Irish and UK psoriasis cohorts (combined n=691) to ethnically matched populations (combined n=2117). No association was present for the two common European FLG mutations R501X and 2282del4 (combined chi2 P=0.989). In addition, the 3' end of the FLG open-reading frame was sequenced in a number of patients with differing types of psoriasis (plaque, guttate, palmoplantar, and late-onset), which excluded the possibility of a gain-of-function frameshift mutation such as those found in loricrin or certain keratin genes. These data suggest that FLG mutations are unlikely to be involved in genetic susceptibility to psoriasis and implies that there may be within-locus heterogeneity in chromosomal regions involved in both AD and psoriasis.
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Suntharalingam J, Machado RD, Sharples LD, Toshner MR, Sheares KK, Hughes RJ, Jenkins DP, Trembath RC, Morrell NW, Pepke-Zaba J. Demographic features, BMPR2 status and outcomes in distal chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Thorax 2007; 62:617-22. [PMID: 17287300 PMCID: PMC2117254 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2006.070680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is potentially curative in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), some patients have distally distributed disease that is not amenable to surgery. The aetiology and characteristics of this patient group are currently not well understood. OBJECTIVES This study compares the baseline demographic features and outcomes in subjects with distal CTEPH, those with proximal CTEPH and those with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH) to determine whether these conditions represent separate entities or whether they exist along the same spectrum of disease. METHODS The medical history, clinical characteristics, bone morphogenetic protein receptor type II (BMPR2) mutation status and outcomes of 96 subjects with IPAH, 35 with distal CTEPH and 68 with proximal CTEPH referred to a single specialist centre between 1994 and 2005 were reviewed. RESULTS There were significant differences between the distal CTEPH, proximal CTEPH and IPAH groups in age (55.9 years vs 54.8 years vs 46.2 years, p<0.001), proportion who were male (43% vs 69% vs 29%, p<0.001), previous deep vein thrombosis (28.6% vs 30.9% vs 3.1%, p<0.001), positive BMPR2 status (0% vs 0% vs 15%, p = 0.018), mean pulmonary artery pressure (47.3 mm Hg vs 45.4 mm Hg vs 54.8 mm Hg, p<0.001) and total pulmonary resistance (12.9 WU vs 12.4 WU vs 18.1 WU, p<0.001). Patients with distal CTEPH and those with IPAH were managed similarly and had comparable survival characteristics (1 year survival 77% vs 86%; 3 year survival 53% vs 60%; p = 0.68). CONCLUSIONS Patients with distal CTEPH share certain demographic features with patients with proximal CTEPH that not only indicate a common aetiology but also help to differentiate them from patients with IPAH. Despite more favourable haemodynamic parameters in those with distal CTEPH, patients in this group had a poor long-term outcome which was similar to that of patients with IPAH.
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White DRA, Ganesh A, Nishimura D, Rattenberry E, Ahmed S, Smith UM, Pasha S, Raeburn S, Trembath RC, Rajab A, Macdonald F, Banin E, Stone EM, Johnson CA, Sheffield VC, Maher ER. Autozygosity mapping of Bardet–Biedl syndrome to 12q21.2 and confirmation of FLJ23560 as BBS10. Eur J Hum Genet 2006; 15:173-8. [PMID: 17106446 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ejhg.5201736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a genetically heterogeneous autosomal recessive disorder characterized by variable obesity, pigmentary retinopathy, polydactyly, mental retardation, hypogonadism and renal failure. In order to identify novel BBS loci we undertook autozygosity mapping studies using high-density SNP microarrays in consanguineous kindreds. We mapped a BBS locus to a 10.1 Mb region at 12q15-q21.2 in a large Omani BBS family (peak lod score 8.3 at theta = 0.0 for marker D12S1722) that contained the recently described BBS10 locus. Mutation analysis of candidate genes within the target interval, including the BBS10 gene, revealed a homozygous frameshift mutation in FLJ23560 and mutations were also detected in four smaller consanguineous families with regions of autozygosity at 12q21.2. These findings (a) confirm a previous report that FLJ23560 (BBS10) mutations are a significant cause of BBS, and (b) further demonstrate the utility of high-density SNP array mapping in consanguineous families for the mapping and identification of recessive disease genes.
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Tarpey P, Thomas S, Sarvananthan N, Mallya U, Lisgo S, Talbot CJ, Roberts EO, Awan M, Surendran M, McLean RJ, Reinecke RD, Langmann A, Lindner S, Koch M, Woodruff G, Gale R, Degg C, Droutsas K, Asproudis I, Zubcov AA, Pieh C, Veal CD, Machado RD, Backhouse OC, Baumber L, Jain S, Constantinescu CS, Brodsky MC, Hunter DG, Hertle RW, Read RJ, Edkins S, O’Meara S, Parker A, Stevens C, Teague J, Wooster R, Futreal PA, Trembath RC, Stratton MR, Raymond FL, Gottlob I. Mutations in FRMD7, a newly identified member of the FERM family, cause X-linked idiopathic congenital nystagmus. Nat Genet 2006; 38:1242-4. [PMID: 17013395 PMCID: PMC2592600 DOI: 10.1038/ng1893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Idiopathic congenital nystagmus is characterized by involuntary, periodic, predominantly horizontal oscillations of both eyes. We identified 22 mutations in FRMD7 in 26 families with X-linked idiopathic congenital nystagmus. Screening of 42 singleton cases of idiopathic congenital nystagmus (28 male, 14 females) yielded three mutations (7%). We found restricted expression of FRMD7 in human embryonic brain and developing neural retina, suggesting a specific role in the control of eye movement and gaze stability.
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Barker JNWN, Palmer CNA, Zhao Y, Liao H, Hull PR, Lee SP, Allen MH, Meggitt SJ, Reynolds NJ, Trembath RC, McLean WHI. Null mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) determine major susceptibility to early-onset atopic dermatitis that persists into adulthood. J Invest Dermatol 2006; 127:564-7. [PMID: 16990802 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disease with a complex etiology in childhood and adult life. A significant proportion of childhood AD is transient, but in many cases it persists into adulthood. We have recently shown that null mutations in the filaggrin gene (FLG) are an important predisposing factor for childhood eczema and eczema-associated asthma, but persistence to adulthood has not been analyzed. Here we studied a cohort of adult patients with persistent AD, which had been present since early childhood. In this cohort, the combined allele frequency of the two common FLG null variants was 0.270 (cf. population frequency 0.046). This represents an odds ratio of 7.7 with 95% confidence interval of 5.3-10.9 and a chi2 P-value of 1.7 x 10(-53). Our data conclusively demonstrate that identification of FLG null alleles is an indicator of a poor prognosis in AD, predisposing to a form of eczema that starts in early infancy and persists into adulthood. This study helps to further define the nature of the AD phenotype associated with FLG null alleles.
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Morgan NV, Brueton LA, Cox P, Greally MT, Tolmie J, Pasha S, Aligianis IA, van Bokhoven H, Marton T, Al-Gazali L, Morton JEV, Oley C, Johnson CA, Trembath RC, Brunner HG, Maher ER. Mutations in the embryonal subunit of the acetylcholine receptor (CHRNG) cause lethal and Escobar variants of multiple pterygium syndrome. Am J Hum Genet 2006; 79:390-5. [PMID: 16826531 PMCID: PMC1559492 DOI: 10.1086/506256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2006] [Accepted: 05/16/2006] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple pterygium syndromes (MPSs) comprise a group of multiple-congenital-anomaly disorders characterized by webbing (pterygia) of the neck, elbows, and/or knees and joint contractures (arthrogryposis). In addition, a variety of developmental defects (e.g., vertebral anomalies) may occur. MPSs are phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous but are traditionally divided into prenatally lethal and nonlethal (Escobar) types. To elucidate the pathogenesis of MPS, we undertook a genomewide linkage scan of a large consanguineous family and mapped a locus to 2q36-37. We then identified germline-inactivating mutations in the embryonal acetylcholine receptor gamma subunit (CHRNG) in families with both lethal and nonlethal MPSs. These findings extend the role of acetylcholine receptor dysfunction in human disease and provide new insights into the pathogenesis and management of fetal akinesia syndromes.
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Kinning E, Tufarelli C, Winship WS, Aldred MA, Trembath RC. Genomic duplication in Dyggve Melchior Clausen syndrome, a novel mutation mechanism in an autosomal recessive disorder. J Med Genet 2006; 42:e70. [PMID: 16326827 PMCID: PMC1735964 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2005.033829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dyggve Melchior Clausen syndrome (DMC) is a severe autosomal recessive skeletal dysplasia associated with mental retardation. Direct sequencing of genomic DNA has identified causative mutations in the gene Dymeclin (chromosome 18q12-21), with the majority predicting the generation of a truncated protein product. OBJECTIVE To carry out molecular genetic studies in three DMC kindreds. RESULTS Two novel nonsense mutations and two complex genomic duplication events resulting in exon repetition were identified. CONCLUSIONS Exon dosage assessment or mRNA analysis, in addition to direct genomic DNA sequencing, should be employed in the investigation of DMC affected individuals. Genomic duplication may be the causative mutation mechanism in other autosomal recessive disorders.
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Sankelo M, Flanagan JA, Machado R, Harrison R, Rudarakanchana N, Morrell N, Dixon M, Halme M, Puolijoki H, Kere J, Elomaa O, Kupari M, Räisänen-Sokolowski A, Trembath RC, Laitinen T. BMPR2 mutations have short lifetime expectancy in primary pulmonary hypertension. Hum Mutat 2006; 26:119-24. [PMID: 15965979 DOI: 10.1002/humu.20200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In a nationwide study, we identified a total of 59 patients diagnosed with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) in Finland between the years 1987 and 1999. These data support a minimum estimate for a PPH population prevalence of 5.8 cases/million with an incidence of 0.2-1.3 cases/million/year. The male-to-female ratio among the patients was 1:4, while 7% (4/59) of the PPH probands had a known family history of the disorder. Familial or sporadic PPH showed no geographic clustering to any region of Finland. Sequencing of the coding regions and exon-intron boundaries of the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 (BMPR2) identified heterozygous BMPR2 mutations in 12% (3/26) of the sporadic and 33% (1/3) of the familial patients. All four mutations were different, and two of those have been previously reported in other populations. Pathogenic defects in BMPR2 include a novel missense mutation (c.2696G>C encoding R899P), located within the receptor intracellular cytoplasmic domain whose function has been poorly characterized. Our analysis demonstrates that this mutant, while localizing to the cell surface, does not impact on SMAD-mediated (mothers against decapentaplegic homolog) intracellular signaling, but leads to constitutive activation of the p38(MAPK) pathway. The absence of a founder mutation in a genetically homogeneous population, such as the Finns, suggests that all identified BMPR2 mutations have to be rather young while the ancestral (if any) mutations have been lost either due to repetitive genetic bottlenecks or due to significant negative selection. Hum Mutat 26(2), 1-6, 2005. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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