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Khatib H, Townsend J, Konkel MA, Conidi G, Hasselkus JA. Calling the question: what is mammalian transgenerational epigenetic inheritance? Epigenetics 2024; 19:2333586. [PMID: 38525788 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2333586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
While transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has been extensively documented in plants, nematodes, and fruit flies, its existence in mammals remains controversial. Several factors have contributed to this debate, including the lack of a clear distinction between intergenerational and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI), the inconsistency of some studies, the potential confounding effects of in-utero vs. epigenetic factors, and, most importantly, the biological challenge of epigenetic reprogramming. Two waves of epigenetic reprogramming occur: in the primordial germ cells and the developing embryo after fertilization, characterized by global erasure of DNA methylation and remodelling of histone modifications. Consequently, TEI can only occur if specific genetic regions evade this reprogramming and persist through embryonic development. These challenges have revived the long-standing debate about the possibility of inheriting acquired traits, which has been strongly contested since the Lamarckian and Darwinian eras. As a result, coupled with the absence of universally accepted criteria for transgenerational epigenetic studies, a vast body of literature has emerged claiming evidence of TEI. Therefore, the goal of this study is to advocate for establishing fundamental criteria that must be met for a study to qualify as evidence of TEI. We identified five criteria based on the consensus of studies that critically evaluated TEI. To assess whether published original research papers adhere to these criteria, we examined 80 studies that either claimed or were cited as supporting TEI. The findings of this analysis underscore the widespread confusion in this field and highlight the urgent need for a unified scientific consensus on TEI requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Khatib
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jessica Townsend
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Melissa A Konkel
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Gabi Conidi
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julia A Hasselkus
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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2
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Cotino-Nájera S, García-Villa E, Cruz-Rosales S, Gariglio P, Díaz-Chávez J. The role of Lin28A and Lin28B in cancer beyond Let-7. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 39152528 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.15004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Lin28A and Lin28B are paralogous RNA-binding proteins that play fundamental roles in development and cancer by regulating the microRNA family of tumor suppressor Let-7. Although Lin28A and Lin28B share some functional similarities with Let-7 inhibitors, they also have distinct expression patterns and biological functions. Increasing evidence indicates that Lin28A and Lin28B differentially impact cancer stem cell properties, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metabolic reprogramming, and other hallmarks of cancer. Therefore, it is important to understand the overexpression of Lin28A and Lin28B paralogs in specific cancer contexts. In this review, we summarize the main similarities and differences between Lin28A and Lin28B, their implications in different cellular processes, and their role in different types of cancer. In addition, we provide evidence of other specific targets of each lin28 paralog, as well as the lncRNAs and miRNAs that promote or inhibit its expression, and how this impacts cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Cotino-Nájera
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Enrique García-Villa
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Samantha Cruz-Rosales
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Patricio Gariglio
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Díaz-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
- Unidad de Investigación Biomédica en Cáncer, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM/Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Mexico City, Mexico
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Mexico
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3
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Barreñada O, González-Sanz S, López-Palacios A, Carballo JA, Del Mazo J, Brieño-Enríquez MA. Analysis of Meiotic Progression by Ex Vivo Culture of Mouse Embryonic Ovaries. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2818:133-145. [PMID: 39126471 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3906-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Oogenesis is the central process required to produce viable oocytes in female mammals. It is initiated during embryonic development, and it involves the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) and progresses through the activation of the meiotic program, reaching a crucial phase in prophase I before pausing at diplotene around the time of birth. The significance of meiosis, particularly the prophase I stage, cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the formation of healthy gametes, a prerequisite for successful reproduction. While research has explored meiosis across various organisms, understanding how environmental factors, including radiation, drugs, endocrine disruptors, reproductive age, or diet, influence this complex developmental process remains incomplete. In this chapter, we describe an ex vivo culture method to investigate meiotic prophase I and beyond and the disruption of oogenesis by external factors. Using this methodology, it is possible to evaluate the effects of individual xenobiotics by administering chemicals at specific points during oogenesis. This culture technique was optimized to study the effects of two selected endocrine disruptors (vinclozolin and MEHP), demonstrating that vinclozolin exposure delayed meiotic differentiation and MEHP exposure reduced follicle size. This approach also opens avenues for future applications, involving the exploration of established or novel pharmaceutical substances and their influence on essential events during prophase I, such as homologous recombination and chromosome segregation. These processes collectively dictate the ultimate fitness of oocytes, with potential implications for factors relevant to the reproductive age and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odei Barreñada
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Silvia González-Sanz
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba López-Palacios
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús A Carballo
- Institute of Functional Biology and Genomics (IBFG, CSIC-USAL), Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Jesús Del Mazo
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Biology. Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel A Brieño-Enríquez
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Novbatova G, Timme K, Severin A, Sayadi M, Keating AF. Pre-Conceptional Exposure to Glyphosate Affects the Maternal Hepatic and Ovarian Proteome. Toxicol Sci 2022; 190:204-214. [PMID: 36173347 PMCID: PMC9702999 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfac098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to glyphosate (GLY), a commonly used herbicide, is supported by urinary detection and associated with shortened gestation in women. This study tested the hypothesis that chronic low-dose pre-conceptional GLY exposure would affect maternal ovarian function mid- and post-gestation. Mice (C57BL/6; n = 40) were exposed per os to saline vehicle control (CT; n = 20) or GLY (2 mg/kg; n = 20) daily for 10 weeks starting at 7 weeks of age. Post-exposure, females were impregnated and euthanized at gestation day 14 (GD14) or post-weaning (PW). Pregnancy success was reduced from 75% to 55% by GLY exposure. No treatment effect (p > .05) on body weight, maternal serum 17β-estradiol, or litter size was noted. Ovarian weight was unaffected or reduced (p < .05) by GLY in GD14 and PW dams, respectively. Exposure to GLY decreased (p < .05) PW ovarian secondary follicle number with no other follicle composition impacts. Protein abundance analysis by LC-MS/MS identified that GLY altered (p < .05) 26 ovarian and 41 hepatic proteins in GD14 dams and 39 hepatic proteins in PW dams. In GD14 dams, GLY increased ovarian protein abundance of SEC16A (p < .05; 29-fold) and hepatic RPS27L and GM4952 (p < .05; ∼4-fold). In both GD14 and PW dams, GLY exposure increased (p < .05) hepatic RPS4 and decreased (p < .05) ECHDC3. Pathway analysis using DAVID identified 10 GLY hepatic pathway targets with FDR ≤ 0.07 in GD14 dams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulnara Novbatova
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Kelsey Timme
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Andrew Severin
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Maryam Sayadi
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Aileen F Keating
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
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Role of microRNA in Endocrine Disruptor-Induced Immunomodulation of Metabolic Health. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12111034. [DOI: 10.3390/metabo12111034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of poor metabolic health is growing exponentially worldwide. This condition is associated with complex comorbidities that lead to a compromised quality of life. One of the contributing factors recently gaining attention is exposure to environmental chemicals, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Considerable evidence suggests that EDCs can alter the endocrine system through immunomodulation. More concerning, EDC exposure during the fetal development stage has prominent adverse effects later in life, which may pass on to subsequent generations. Although the mechanism of action for this phenomenon is mostly unexplored, recent reports implicate that non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRs), may play a vital role in this scenario. MiRs are significant contributors in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Studies demonstrating the immunomodulation of EDCs via miRs in metabolic health or towards the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) Hypothesis are still deficient. The aim of the current review was to focus on studies that demonstrate the impact of EDCs primarily on innate immunity and the potential role of miRs in metabolic health.
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Rebuzzini P, Fabozzi G, Cimadomo D, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L, Zuccotti M, Garagna S. Multi- and Transgenerational Effects of Environmental Toxicants on Mammalian Reproduction. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193163. [PMID: 36231124 PMCID: PMC9563050 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental toxicants (ETs) are an exogenous chemical group diffused in the environment that contaminate food, water, air and soil, and through the food chain, they bioaccumulate into the organisms. In mammals, the exposure to ETs can affect both male and female fertility and their reproductive health through complex alterations that impact both gametogeneses, among other processes. In humans, direct exposure to ETs concurs to the declining of fertility, and its transmission across generations has been recently proposed. However, multi- and transgenerational inheritances of ET reprotoxicity have only been demonstrated in animals. Here, we review recent studies performed on laboratory model animals investigating the effects of ETs, such as BPA, phthalates, pesticides and persistent contaminants, on the reproductive system transmitted through generations. This includes multigenerational effects, where exposure to the compounds cannot be excluded, and transgenerational effects in unexposed animals. Additionally, we report on epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, histone tails and noncoding RNAs, which may play a mechanistic role in a nongenetic transmission of environmental information exposure through the germline across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Rebuzzini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
| | - Gemma Fabozzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Via De Notaris 2B, 00197 Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Via Sant’Andrea 34, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani”, Via Ferrata 9, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 5, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (M.Z.); (S.G.); Tel.: +39-0382-986323 (P.R. & M.Z. & S.G.)
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7
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Lai KP, Tim Leung CC, Boncan DAT, Tam N, Lin X, Wang SY, Chan TF, Sun Wu RS, Chong Kong RY. Hypoxia-induced epigenetic transgenerational miRNAs dysregulation involved in reproductive impairment of ovary. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 367:110176. [PMID: 36096162 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia is a potent endocrine disruptor that is posing serious problems to the fish reproductive systems. Our previous studies reported that hypoxia could cause a transgenerational impairment of ovarian development and interfere hatching success in F2 offspring of marine medaka fish (Oryzias melastigma) through epigenetic regulation. As part of the epigenetic regulation, we investigated the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in hypoxia-induced transgenerational reproductive impairments. In the present study, we used comparative small RNA sequencing to reveal that hypoxia caused miRNA dysregulation in ovaries of F0 hypoxia group and F2 transgenerational group. We found 4 common dysregulated miRNA in the F0 and F2 generations. Furthermore, integrated miRNA-mRNA analysis, followed by gene ontology enrichment analysis on the hypoxia-dysregulated miRNA-target genes further highlighted the importance of these dysregulated miRNAs in biological processes related to reproduction. More importantly, we identified 3 miRNA-mRNA pairs (novel miRNA-525-DIAPH2, novel miRNA-525-MYOCD, and novel miRNA-525-RAI14) that might play epigenetic roles in hypoxia-induced reproductive impairment. For the first time, our findings suggested the involvement of miRNA in hypoxia-induced reproductive impairments may be inherited via a transgenerational manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keng Po Lai
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Integrative Omics, Guilin Medical University, Education Department of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China; Department of Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | | | - Delbert Almerick T Boncan
- School of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Nathan Tam
- Department of Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiao Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, USA
| | - Simon Yuan Wang
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ting Fung Chan
- School of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Rudolf Shiu Sun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Richard Yuen Chong Kong
- Department of Chemistry, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, The City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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8
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García-Andrade F, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Chávez-Saldaña MD, Rojas-Castañeda JC, Bahena-Ocampo IU, Aréchaga-Ocampo E, Díaz-Chávez J, Landero-Huerta DA. The Role of microRNAs in the Gonocyte Theory as Target of Malignancy: Looking for Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810526. [PMID: 36142439 PMCID: PMC9505168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Some pediatric patients with cryptorchidism preserve cells with gonocyte characteristics beyond their differentiation period, which could support the theory of the gonocyte as a target for malignancy in the development of testicular neoplasia. One of the key molecules in gonocyte malignancy is represented by microRNAs (miRNAs). The goal of this review is to give an overview of miRNAs, a class of small non-coding RNAs that participate in the regulation of gene expression. We also aim to review the crucial role of several miRNAs that have been further described in the regulation of gonocyte differentiation to spermatogonia, which, when transformed, could give rise to germ cell neoplasia in situ, a precursor lesion to testicular germ cell tumors. Finally, the potential use of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in testicular neoplasia is addressed, due to their specificity and sensitivity compared to conventional markers, as well as their applications in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola García-Andrade
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Rosa María Vigueras-Villaseñor
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
| | | | | | - Iván Uriel Bahena-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Elena Aréchaga-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México 05348, Mexico
| | - José Díaz-Chávez
- Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Daniel Adrian Landero-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
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9
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LIN28 Family in Testis: Control of Cell Renewal, Maturation, Fertility and Aging. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137245. [PMID: 35806250 PMCID: PMC9266904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive development starts early in the embryogenesis with somatic and germ cell differentiation in the testis. The LIN28 family of RNA-binding proteins promoting pluripotency has two members—LIN28A and LIN28B. Their function in the testis has been investigated but many questions about their exact role based on the expression patterns remain unclear. LIN28 expression is detected in the gonocytes and the migrating, mitotically active germ cells of the fetal testis. Postnatal expression of LIN28 A and B showed differential expression, with LIN28A expressed in the undifferentiated spermatogonia and LIN28B in the elongating spermatids and Leydig cells. LIN28 interferes with many signaling pathways, leading to cell proliferation, and it is involved in important testicular physiological processes, such as cell renewal, maturation, fertility, and aging. In addition, aberrant LIN28 expression is associated with testicular cancer and testicular disorders, such as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and Klinefelter’s syndrome. This comprehensive review encompasses current knowledge of the function of LIN28 paralogs in testis and other tissues and cells because many studies suggest LIN28AB as a promising target for developing novel therapeutic agents.
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Montjean D, Neyroud AS, Yefimova MG, Benkhalifa M, Cabry R, Ravel C. Impact of Endocrine Disruptors upon Non-Genetic Inheritance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3350. [PMID: 35328771 PMCID: PMC8950994 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Similar to environmental factors, EDCs (endocrine-disrupting chemicals) can influence gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence. It is commonly accepted that the transgenerational inheritance of parentally acquired traits is conveyed by epigenetic alterations also known as "epimutations". DNA methylation, acetylation, histone modification, RNA-mediated effects and extracellular vesicle effects are the mechanisms that have been described so far to be responsible for these epimutations. They may lead to the transgenerational inheritance of diverse phenotypes in the progeny when they occur in the germ cells of an affected individual. While EDC-induced health effects have dramatically increased over the past decade, limited effects on sperm epigenetics have been described. However, there has been a gain of interest in this issue in recent years. The gametes (sperm and oocyte) represent targets for EDCs and thus a route for environmentally induced changes over several generations. This review aims at providing an overview of the epigenetic mechanisms that might be implicated in this transgenerational inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debbie Montjean
- Fertilys Fertility Center, 1950 Rue Maurice-Gauvin #103, Laval, QC H7S 1Z5, Canada;
| | - Anne-Sophie Neyroud
- CHU de Rennes, Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique et Reproduction Humaine-CECOS, Hôpital Sud, 16 Boulevard de Bulgarie, 35000 Rennes, France;
| | - Marina G. Yefimova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223 St-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Moncef Benkhalifa
- Fertilys Fertility Center, 1950 Rue Maurice-Gauvin #103, Laval, QC H7S 1Z5, Canada;
- Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS de Picardie, CHU Amiens, 80054 Amiens, France;
- UFR de Médecine, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
- Peritox, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
| | - Rosalie Cabry
- Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS de Picardie, CHU Amiens, 80054 Amiens, France;
- UFR de Médecine, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
- Peritox, Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80054 Amiens, France
| | - Célia Ravel
- CHU de Rennes, Département de Gynécologie Obstétrique et Reproduction Humaine-CECOS, Hôpital Sud, 16 Boulevard de Bulgarie, 35000 Rennes, France;
- CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail)—UMR_S 1085, University Rennes, 35000 Rennes, France
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11
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Robaire B, Delbes G, Head JA, Marlatt VL, Martyniuk CJ, Reynaud S, Trudeau VL, Mennigen JA. A cross-species comparative approach to assessing multi- and transgenerational effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:112063. [PMID: 34562476 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of chemicals have been identified as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in vertebrate species. Most studies of EDCs have focused on exposure of both male and female adults to these chemicals; however, there is clear evidence that EDCs have dramatic effects when mature or developing gametes are exposed, and consequently are associated with in multigenerational and transgenerational effects. Several publications have reviewed such actions of EDCs in subgroups of species, e.g., fish or rodents. In this review, we take a holistic approach synthesizing knowledge of the effects of EDCs across vertebrate species, including fish, anurans, birds, and mammals, and discuss the potential mechanism(s) mediating such multi- and transgenerational effects. We also propose a series of recommendations aimed at moving the field forward in a structured and coherent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Geraldine Delbes
- Centre Armand Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de La Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Jessica A Head
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Vicki L Marlatt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stéphane Reynaud
- Univ. Grenoble-Alpes, Université. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, Grenoble, 38000, France
| | - Vance L Trudeau
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jan A Mennigen
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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12
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Malecki KMC, Andersen JK, Geller AM, Harry GJ, Jackson CL, James KA, Miller GW, Ottinger MA. Integrating Environment and Aging Research: Opportunities for Synergy and Acceleration. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:824921. [PMID: 35264945 PMCID: PMC8901047 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.824921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite significant overlaps in mission, the fields of environmental health sciences and aging biology are just beginning to intersect. It is increasingly clear that genetics alone does not predict an individual’s neurological aging and sensitivity to disease. Accordingly, aging neuroscience is a growing area of mutual interest within environmental health sciences. The impetus for this review came from a workshop hosted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in June of 2020, which focused on integrating the science of aging and environmental health research. It is critical to bridge disciplines with multidisciplinary collaborations across toxicology, comparative biology, epidemiology to understand the impacts of environmental toxicant exposures and age-related outcomes. This scoping review aims to highlight overlaps and gaps in existing knowledge and identify essential research initiatives. It begins with an overview of aging biology and biomarkers, followed by examples of synergy with environmental health sciences. New areas for synergistic research and policy development are also discussed. Technological advances including next-generation sequencing and other-omics tools now offer new opportunities, including exposomic research, to integrate aging biomarkers into environmental health assessments and bridge disciplinary gaps. This is necessary to advance a more complete mechanistic understanding of how life-time exposures to toxicants and other physical and social stressors alter biological aging. New cumulative risk frameworks in environmental health sciences acknowledge that exposures and other external stressors can accumulate across the life course and the advancement of new biomarkers of exposure and response grounded in aging biology can support increased understanding of population vulnerability. Identifying the role of environmental stressors, broadly defined, on aging biology and neuroscience can similarly advance opportunities for intervention and translational research. Several areas of growing research interest include expanding exposomics and use of multi-omics, the microbiome as a mediator of environmental stressors, toxicant mixtures and neurobiology, and the role of structural and historical marginalization and racism in shaping persistent disparities in population aging and outcomes. Integrated foundational and translational aging biology research in environmental health sciences is needed to improve policy, reduce disparities, and enhance the quality of life for older individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen M. C. Malecki
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- *Correspondence: Kristen M. C. Malecki,
| | | | - Andrew M. Geller
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Durham, NC, United States
| | - G. Jean Harry
- Division of National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Chandra L. Jackson
- Division of Intramural Research, Department of Health and Human Services, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Katherine A. James
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Gary W. Miller
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mary Ann Ottinger
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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13
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Nilsson EE, Ben Maamar M, Skinner MK. Role of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance in generational toxicology. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2022; 8:dvac001. [PMID: 35186326 PMCID: PMC8848501 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Many environmental toxicants have been shown to be associated with the transgenerational inheritance of increased disease susceptibility. This review describes the generational toxicity of some of these chemicals and their role in the induction of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease. Epigenetic factors include DNA methylation, histone modifications, retention of histones in sperm, changes to chromatin structure, and expression of non-coding RNAs. For toxicant-induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance to occur, exposure to a toxicant must result in epigenetic changes to germ cells (sperm or eggs) since it is the germ cells that carry molecular information to subsequent generations. In addition, the epigenetic changes induced in transgenerational generation animals must cause alterations in gene expression in these animals' somatic cells. In some cases of generational toxicology, negligible changes are seen in the directly exposed generations, but increased disease rates are seen in transgenerational descendants. Governmental policies regulating toxicant exposure should take generational effects into account. A new approach that takes into consideration generational toxicity will be needed to protect our future populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric E Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Millissia Ben Maamar
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- **Correspondence address. Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA. Tel: +509-335-1524; E-mail:
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14
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Ben Maamar M, Nilsson EE, Skinner MK. Epigenetic transgenerational inheritance, gametogenesis and germline development†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:570-592. [PMID: 33929020 PMCID: PMC8444706 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most important developing cell types in any biological system is the gamete (sperm and egg). The transmission of phenotypes and optimally adapted physiology to subsequent generations is in large part controlled by gametogenesis. In contrast to genetics, the environment actively regulates epigenetics to impact the physiology and phenotype of cellular and biological systems. The integration of epigenetics and genetics is critical for all developmental biology systems at the cellular and organism level. The current review is focused on the role of epigenetics during gametogenesis for both the spermatogenesis system in the male and oogenesis system in the female. The developmental stages from the initial primordial germ cell through gametogenesis to the mature sperm and egg are presented. How environmental factors can influence the epigenetics of gametogenesis to impact the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of phenotypic and physiological change in subsequent generations is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millissia Ben Maamar
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Eric E Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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15
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Rastgar Rezaei Y, Zarezadeh R, Nikanfar S, Oghbaei H, Nazdikbin N, Bahrami-Asl Z, Zarghami N, Ahmadi Y, Fattahi A, Nouri M, Dittrich R. microRNAs in the pathogenesis of non-obstructive azoospermia: the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic potentials. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:337-353. [PMID: 34355990 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1951890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
miRNAs are involved in different biological processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Interestingly, 38% of the X chromosome-linked miRNAs are testis-specific and have crucial roles in regulating the renewal and cell cycle of spermatogonial stem cells. Previous studies demonstrated that abnormal expression of spermatogenesis-related miRNAs could lead to nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Moreover, differential miRNAs expression in seminal plasma of NOA patients has been reported compared to normozoospermic men. However, the role of miRNAs in NOA pathogenesis and the underlying mechanisms have not been comprehensively studied. Therefore, the aim of this review is to mechanistically describe the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of NOA and discuss the possibility of using the miRNAs as therapeutic targets.Abbreviations: AMO: anti-miRNA antisense oligonucleotide; AZF: azoospermia factor region; CDK: cyclin-dependent kinase; DAZ: deleted in azoospermia; ESCs: embryonic stem cells; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone; ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection; JAK/STAT: Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription; miRNA: micro-RNA; MLH1: Human mutL homolog l; NF-κB: Nuclear factor-kappa B; NOA: nonobstructive azoospermia; OA: obstructive azoospermia; PGCs: primordial germ cells; PI3K/AKT: Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B; Rb: retinoblastoma tumor suppressor; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SCOS: Sertoli cell-only syndrome; SIRT: sirtuin; SNPs: single nucleotide polymorphisms; SSCs: spermatogonial stem cells; TESE: testicular sperm extraction; TGF-β: transforming growth factor-beta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeganeh Rastgar Rezaei
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Zarezadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saba Nikanfar
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hajar Oghbaei
- Department of Physiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Bahrami-Asl
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yadollah Ahmadi
- Department of Urology, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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16
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Poulsen R, De Fine Licht HH, Hansen M, Cedergreen N. Grandmother's pesticide exposure revealed bi-generational effects in Daphnia magna. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 236:105861. [PMID: 34049113 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Man-made chemicals are a significant contributor to the ongoing deterioration of numerous ecosystems. Currently, risk assessment of these chemicals is based on observations in a single generation of animals, despite potential adverse intergenerational effects. Here, we investigate the effect of the fungicide prochloraz across three generations of Daphnia magna. We studied both the effects of continuous exposure over all generations and the effects of first-generation (F0) exposure on two subsequent generations. Effects at different levels of biological organization from genome-wide gene expression, whole organism metabolite levels, CYP enzyme activity and key phenotypic effects, such as reproduction, were monitored. Acclimation to prochloraz was found after continuous exposure. Following F0-exposure, embryonically exposed F1-offspring showed no significant effects. However, in the potentially germline exposed F2 animals, several parameters differed significantly from controls. A direct association between these F2 effects and the toxic mode of action of prochloraz was found, showing that chemicals can be harmful not only to the directly exposed generation, but also to prenatally exposed generations and in that way effects may even appear to skip a generation. This implies that current risk assessment practices are neglecting an important aspect of toxicity, such as delayed effects across generations due to a time gap between chemical exposure and emergence of effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Poulsen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg, Denmark; Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Henrik H De Fine Licht
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Martin Hansen
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Nina Cedergreen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Thorvaldsensvej 40, 1871 Frederiksberg, Denmark
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17
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Zhang FL, Kong L, Zhao AH, Ge W, Yan ZH, Li L, De Felici M, Shen W. Inflammatory cytokines as key players of apoptosis induced by environmental estrogens in the ovary. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 198:111225. [PMID: 33971129 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Natural and synthetic environmental estrogens (EEs), interfering with the physiological functions of the body's estrogens, are widespread and are rising much concern for their possible deleterious effects on human and animal health, in particular on reproduction. In fact, increasing evidence indicate that EEs can be responsible for a variety of disfunctions of the reproductive system especially in females such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Because of their great structural diversity, the modes of action of EEs are controversial. One important way through which EEs exert their effects on reproduction is the induction of apoptosis in the ovary. In general, EEs can exert pro-and anti-apoptotic effects by agonizing or antagonizing numerous estrogen-dependent signaling pathways. In the present work, results concerning apoptotic pathways and diseases induced by representative EEs (such as zearalenone, bisphenol A and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), in ovaries throughout development are presented into an integrated network. By reviewing and elaborating these studies, we propose inflammatory factors, centered on the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), as a major cause of the induction of apoptosis by EEs in the mammalian ovary. As a consequence, potential strategies to prevent such EE effect are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Li Kong
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Ai-Hong Zhao
- Qingdao Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Qingdao, 266100, China
| | - Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Zi-Hui Yan
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, 00133, Italy.
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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18
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Environmental pollutants exposure and male reproductive toxicity: The role of epigenetic modifications. Toxicology 2021; 456:152780. [PMID: 33862174 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Male fertility rates have shown a progressive decrease in recent decades. There is a growing concern about the male reproductive dysfunction caused by environmental pollutants exposure, however the underlying molecular mechanisms are still not well understood. Epigenetic modifications play a key role in the biological responses to external stressors. Therefore, this review discusses the roles of epigenetic modifications in male reproductive toxicity induced by environmental pollutants, with a particular emphasis on DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNAs. The available literature proposed that environmental pollutants can directly or cause oxidative stress and DNA damage to induce a variety of epigenetic changes, which lead to gene dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction and consequent male reproductive toxicity. However, future studies focusing on more kinds of epigenetic modifications and their crosstalk as well as epidemiological data are still required to fill in the current research gaps. In addition, the intrinsic links between pollutants-mediated epigenetic regulations and male reproduction-related physiological responses deserve to be further explored.
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19
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Cabej NR. A mechanism of inheritance of acquired traits in animals. Dev Biol 2021; 475:106-117. [PMID: 33741349 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Observational and experimental evidence for the inheritance of acquired traits in animals is slowly, but steadily accumulating. The onset and transmission of acquired traits implies the acquisition and transmission from parents to progeny of new information, which is different from the genetic information contained in DNA. The new non-genetic information most commonly is passed on from parents to the offspring via gamete(s), but how it is precisely transmitted to the successive generations is still unknown. Based on adequate empirical evidence presented herein, a hypothesis is proposed of the inheritance of acquired traits in animals and the flow of the relevant parental information to the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson R Cabej
- University of Tirana Faculty of Medicine, Universiteti i Mjekesise Tirane, Department of Biology, 147 Manhattan Terrace, Dumont, 07628, USA.
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20
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Shi Y, Qi W, Xu Q, Wang Z, Cao X, Zhou L, Ye L. The role of epigenetics in the reproductive toxicity of environmental endocrine disruptors. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2021; 62:78-88. [PMID: 33217042 DOI: 10.1002/em.22414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) seriously endanger human health by interfering with the normal function of reproductive systems. In males, EEDs can affect sperm formation and semen quality as well spermatogenesis, ultimately reducing fertility. In females, EEDs can affect uterine development and the expression levels of reproduction-related genes, ultimately reducing female fertility and the normal development of the fetus. There are a large number of putative mechanisms by which EEDs can induce reproductive toxicity, and many studies have shown the involvement of epigenetics. In this review, we summarize the role of DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, genomic imprinting, chromatin remodeling and histone modification in the reproductive toxicity of EEDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanbin Shi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wen Qi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qi Xu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaolian Cao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Liting Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lin Ye
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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21
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Environmentally Induced Epigenetic Transgenerational Inheritance and the Weismann Barrier: The Dawn of Neo-Lamarckian Theory. J Dev Biol 2020; 8:jdb8040028. [PMID: 33291540 PMCID: PMC7768451 DOI: 10.3390/jdb8040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
For the past 120 years, the Weismann barrier and associated germ plasm theory of heredity have been a doctrine that has impacted evolutionary biology and our concepts of inheritance through the germline. Although August Weismann in his 1872 book was correct that the sperm and egg were the only cells to transmit molecular information to the subsequent generation, the concept that somatic cells do not impact the germline (i.e., the Weismann barrier) is incorrect. However, the doctrine or dogma of the Weismann barrier still influences many scientific fields and topics. The discovery of epigenetics, and more recently environmentally induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of phenotypic variation and pathology, have had significant impacts on evolution theory and medicine today. Environmental epigenetics and the concept of epigenetic transgenerational inheritance refute aspects of the Weismann barrier and require a re-evaluation of both inheritance theory and evolution theory.
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22
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Alexandri C, Daniel A, Bruylants G, Demeestere I. The role of microRNAs in ovarian function and the transition toward novel therapeutic strategies in fertility preservation: from bench to future clinical application. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:174-196. [PMID: 32074269 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND New therapeutic approaches in oncology have converted cancer from a certain death sentence to a chronic disease. However, there are still challenges to be overcome regarding the off-target toxicity of many of these treatments. Oncological therapies can lead to future infertility in women. Given this negative impact on long-term quality of life, fertility preservation is highly recommended. While gamete and ovarian tissue cryopreservation are the usual methods offered, new pharmacological-based options aiming to reduce ovarian damage during oncological treatment are very attractive. In this vein, advances in the field of transcriptomics and epigenomics have brought small noncoding RNAs, called microRNAs (miRNAs), into the spotlight in oncology. MicroRNAs also play a key role in follicle development as regulators of follicular growth, atresia and steroidogenesis. They are also involved in DNA damage repair responses and they can themselves be modulated during chemotherapy. For these reasons, miRNAs may be an interesting target to develop new protective therapies during oncological treatment. This review summarizes the physiological role of miRNAs in reproduction. Considering recently developed strategies based on miRNA therapy in oncology, we highlight their potential interest as a target in fertility preservation and propose future strategies to make the transition from bench to clinic. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE How can miRNA therapeutic approaches be used to develop new adjuvant protective therapies to reduce the ovarian damage caused by cytotoxic oncological treatments? SEARCH METHODS A systematic search of English language literature using PubMed and Google Scholar databases was performed through to 2019 describing the role of miRNAs in the ovary and their use for diagnosis and targeted therapy in oncology. Personal data illustrate miRNA therapeutic strategies to target the gonads and reduce chemotherapy-induced follicular damage. OUTCOMES This review outlines the importance of miRNAs as gene regulators and emphasizes the fact that insights in oncology can inspire new adjuvant strategies in the field of onco-fertility. Recent improvements in nanotechnology offer the opportunity for drug development using next-generation miRNA-nanocarriers. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although there are still some barriers regarding the immunogenicity and toxicity of these treatments and there is still room for improvement concerning the specific delivery of miRNAs into the ovaries, we believe that, in the future, miRNAs can be developed as powerful and non-invasive tools for fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Alexandri
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Daniel
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium.,Université de Tours, Faculty of Science and Technology, 37200 Tours, France
| | - G Bruylants
- Engineering of Molecular NanoSystems, Ecole Polytechnique de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Demeestere
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium.,Fertility Clinic, CUB-Erasme, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
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23
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The antiandrogenic vinclozolin induces differentiation delay of germ cells and changes in energy metabolism in 3D cultures of fetal ovaries. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18036. [PMID: 33093579 PMCID: PMC7582921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75116-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vinclozolin is a pesticide with antiandrogenic activity as an endocrine disruptor compound. Its effects upon the progression of primordial follicles were assessed in cultures of mouse fetal ovaries from the onset of meiotic differentiation of germ cells (13.5 days post coitum) and from both in vivo exposed mice and in vitro exposed ovaries. Exposure of ovaries to vinclozolin—at in vitro dosages ranging from 10 to 200 μM and in 3D ex vivo culture following in vivo exposure to 50 mg/kg bw/day—showed delays in meiocyte differentiation and in follicle growth, even at the lowest in vitro dose exposure. Immunofluorescent analysis showed the presence of the proteins MSY2 and NOBOX in the primary follicles but no difference in the level of protein signals or in the number of follicles in relation to treatment. However, assessing the cytological differentiation of germ cells by detecting the synaptonemal complex protein SYCP3, the exposure to vinclozolin delayed meiotic differentiation from both in vitro- and in vivo-exposed ovaries. These effects were concomitant with changes in the energy metabolism, detected as a relative increase of glycolytic metabolism in live-cell metabolic assays in exposed ovaries.
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24
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Chen ACH, Lee KF, Yeung WSB, Lee YL. Human embryonic stem cells as an in vitro model for studying developmental origins of type 2 diabetes. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:761-775. [PMID: 32952857 PMCID: PMC7477660 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i8.761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The developmental origins of health and diseases (DOHaD) is a concept stating that adverse intrauterine environments contribute to the health risks of offspring. Since the theory emerged more than 30 years ago, many epidemiological and animal studies have confirmed that in utero exposure to environmental insults, including hyperglycemia and chemicals, increased the risk of developing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). These NCDs include metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and complications such as diabetic cardiomyopathy. Studying the effects of different environmental insults on early embryo development would aid in understanding the underlying mechanisms by which these insults promote NCD development. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have also been utilized by researchers to study the DOHaD. ESCs have pluripotent characteristics and can be differentiated into almost every cell lineage; therefore, they are excellent in vitro models for studying early developmental events. More importantly, human ESCs (hESCs) are the best alternative to human embryos for research because of ethical concerns. In this review, we will discuss different maternal conditions associated with DOHaD, focusing on the complications of maternal diabetes. Next, we will review the differentiation protocols developed to generate different cell lineages from hESCs. Additionally, we will review how hESCs are utilized as a model for research into the DOHaD. The effects of environmental insults on hESC differentiation and the possible involvement of epigenetic regulation will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Chun-Hang Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kai Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, Guangdong Province, China
| | - William Shu Biu Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yin Lau Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, Guangdong Province, China
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Wang X, Song X, Bhandari RK. Distinct expression patterns of seven crucial microRNAs during early embryonic development in medaka (Oryzias latipes). Gene Expr Patterns 2020; 37:119133. [PMID: 32800847 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2020.119133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (i.e. miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play essential modulation roles in embryonic development in vertebrates. Paternal and maternal miRNAs contribute to the development of post-fertilization embryo and zygotic genome activation. The pattern of expression and their roles in embryonic development of medaka are not clearly understood. The present study, therefore, examined a temporal expression of seven miRNAs, ola-let-7a, ola-miR-202-3p, ola-miR-126-3p, ola-miR-122, ola-miR-92a, ola-miR-125a-3p and ola-miR-430a in sperm, oocytes, and embryos during early developmental stages. Three unique expression patterns of miRNAs were observed. ola-let7a, ola-miR-202-3p and ola-miR-126-3p showed both paternal and maternal expression, and ola-miR-122, ola-miR-92a, ola-miR-125a-3p showed maternal expression only. The expression of six out of seven miRNAs significantly decreased after maternal-zygotic transition (MZT), whereas ola-miR-430a expression initiated only after MZT. The temporal dynamic expression of these miRNAs suggests their potential roles in early embryogenesis and genome-zygotic activation in medaka.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuegeng Wang
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Xiaohong Song
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541004, China
| | - Ramji K Bhandari
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA.
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Environmental Impact on Male (In)Fertility via Epigenetic Route. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082520. [PMID: 32764255 PMCID: PMC7463911 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 40 years, male reproductive health-which is very sensitive to both environmental exposure and metabolic status-has deteriorated and the poor sperm quality observed has been suggested to affect offspring development and its health in adult life. In this scenario, evidence now suggests that epigenetics shapes endocrine functions, linking genetics and environment. During fertilization, spermatozoa share with the oocyte their epigenome, along with their haploid genome, in order to orchestrate embryo development. The epigenetic signature of spermatozoa is the result of a dynamic modulation of the epigenetic marks occurring, firstly, in the testis-during germ cell progression-then, along the epididymis, where spermatozoa still receive molecules, conveyed by epididymosomes. Paternal lifestyle, including nutrition and exposure to hazardous substances, alters the phenotype of the next generations, through the remodeling of a sperm epigenetic blueprint that dynamically reacts to a wide range of environmental and lifestyle stressors. With that in mind, this review will summarize and discuss insights into germline epigenetic plasticity caused by environmental stimuli and diet and how spermatozoa may be carriers of induced epimutations across generations through a mechanism known as paternal transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
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Brieño-Enríquez MA, Moak SL, Abud-Flores A, Cohen PE. Characterization of telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA) localization and protein interactions in primordial germ cells of the mouse†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:950-962. [PMID: 30423030 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are dynamic nucleoprotein structures capping the physical ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes. They consist of telomeric DNA repeats (TTAGGG), the shelterin protein complex, and telomeric repeat-containing RNA (TERRA). Proposed TERRA functions are wide ranging and include telomere maintenance, telomerase inhibition, genomic stability, and alternative lengthening of telomere. However, the presence and role of TERRA in primordial germ cells (PGCs), the embryonic precursors of germ cells, is unknown. Using RNA-fluorescence in situ hybridization, we identify TERRA transcripts in female PGCs at 11.5, 12.5, and 13.5 days postcoitum. In male PGCs, the earliest detection TERRA was at 12.5 dpc where we observed cells with either zero or one TERRA focus. Using qRT-PCR, we evaluated chromosome-specific TERRA expression. Female PGCs showed TERRA expression at 11.5 dpc from eight different chromosome subtelomeric regions (chromosomes 1, 2, 7, 9, 11, 13, 17, and 18) while in male PGCs, TERRA expression was confined to the chromosome 17. Most TERRA transcription in 13.5 dpc male PGCs arose from chromosomes 2 and 6. TERRA interacting proteins were evaluated using identification of direct RNA interacting proteins (iDRiP), which identified 48 in female and 26 in male protein interactors from PGCs at 13.5 dpc. We validated two different proteins: the splicing factor, proline- and glutamine-rich (SFPQ) in PGCs and non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein (NONO) in somatic cells. Taken together, our data indicate that TERRA expression and interactome during PGC development are regulated in a dynamic fashion that is dependent on gestational age and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Brieño-Enríquez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and the Cornell Center for Reproductive Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Steffanie L Moak
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and the Cornell Center for Reproductive Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Anyul Abud-Flores
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and the Cornell Center for Reproductive Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Paula E Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and the Cornell Center for Reproductive Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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Murphy PJ, Guo J, Jenkins TG, James ER, Hoidal JR, Huecksteadt T, Broberg DS, Hotaling JM, Alonso DF, Carrell DT, Cairns BR, Aston KI. NRF2 loss recapitulates heritable impacts of paternal cigarette smoke exposure. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008756. [PMID: 32520939 PMCID: PMC7307791 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Paternal cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is associated with increased risk of behavioral disorders and cancer in offspring, but the mechanism has not been identified. Here we use mouse models to investigate mechanisms and impacts of paternal CS exposure. We demonstrate that CS exposure induces sperm DNAme changes that are partially corrected within 28 days of removal from CS exposure. Additionally, paternal smoking is associated with changes in prefrontal cortex DNAme and gene expression patterns in offspring. Remarkably, the epigenetic and transcriptional effects of CS exposure that we observed in wild type mice are partially recapitulated in Nrf2-/- mice and their offspring, independent of smoking status. Nrf2 is a central regulator of antioxidant gene transcription, and mice lacking Nrf2 consequently display elevated oxidative stress, suggesting that oxidative stress may underlie CS-induced heritable epigenetic changes. Importantly, paternal sperm DNAme changes do not overlap with DNAme changes measured in offspring prefrontal cortex, indicating that the observed DNAme changes in sperm are not directly inherited. Additionally, the changes in sperm DNAme associated with CS exposure were not observed in sperm of unexposed offspring, suggesting the effects are likely not maintained across multiple generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J. Murphy
- Department of Biomedical Genetics, Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Jingtao Guo
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Timothy G. Jenkins
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Emma R. James
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - John R. Hoidal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine and Salt Lake VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Thomas Huecksteadt
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine and Salt Lake VA Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Dallin S. Broberg
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - James M. Hotaling
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - David F. Alonso
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Douglas T. Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
- Department of Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Bradley R. Cairns
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Oncological Sciences and Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
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Costa C, Teodoro M, Rugolo CA, Alibrando C, Giambò F, Briguglio G, Fenga C. MicroRNAs alteration as early biomarkers for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases: New challenges in pesticides exposure. Toxicol Rep 2020; 7:759-767. [PMID: 32612936 PMCID: PMC7322123 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Current knowledge linking pesticide exposure, cancer and neuro-degenerative diseases to dysregulation of microRNA network was summarized. Literature indicates differential miRNA expression targeting biomolecules and pathways involved in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Evaluation of miRNA expression may be used to develop new non-invasive strategies for the prediction and prognosis of diseases including cancer. The application of miRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in the clinical field is extremely challenging.
This review summarizes the current knowledge linking cancer and neuro-degenerative diseases to dysregulation of microRNA network following pesticide exposure. Most findings revealed differential miRNA expression targeting biomolecules and pathways involved in various neoplastic localizations and neurodegenerative diseases. A growing body of evidence in recent literature indicates that alteration of specific miRNAs can represent an early biomarker of disease following exposure to chemical agents, including pesticides. Different miRNAs seem to regulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion, and metastasis via many biological pathways through modulation of the expression of target mRNAs. The evaluation of miRNA expression levels may be used to develop new non-invasive strategies for the prediction and prognosis of many diseases, including cancer. However, the application of miRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in the clinical field is extremely challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Costa
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Department, University of Messina, Messina 98125, Italy
| | - Michele Teodoro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmela Alessandra Rugolo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmela Alibrando
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Giambò
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Giusi Briguglio
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Concettina Fenga
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Corresponding author at: Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional Imaging, Occupational Medicine Section, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario “G. Martino” – pad. H, Via Consolare Valeria 1, 98125, Messina, Italy.
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30
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Van Cauwenbergh O, Di Serafino A, Tytgat J, Soubry A. Transgenerational epigenetic effects from male exposure to endocrine-disrupting compounds: a systematic review on research in mammals. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:65. [PMID: 32398147 PMCID: PMC7218615 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00845-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessing long-term health effects from a potentially harmful environment is challenging. Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) have become omnipresent in our environment. Individuals may or may not experience clinical health issues from being exposed to the increasing environmental pollution in daily life, but an issue of high concern is that also the non-exposed progeny may encounter consequences of these ancestral exposures. Progress in understanding epigenetic mechanisms opens new perspectives to estimate the risk of man-made EDCs. However, the field of epigenetic toxicology is new and its application in public health or in the understanding of disease etiology is almost non-existent, especially if it concerns future generations. In this review, we investigate the literature on transgenerational inheritance of diseases, published in the past 10 years. We question whether persistent epigenetic changes occur in the male germ line after exposure to synthesized EDCs. Our systematic search led to an inclusion of 43 articles, exploring the effects of commonly used synthetic EDCs, such as plasticizers (phthalates and bisphenol A), pesticides (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, atrazine, vinclozin, methoxychlor), dioxins, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, such as benzo(a)pyrene). Most studies found transgenerational epigenetic effects, often linked to puberty- or adult-onset diseases, such as testicular or prostate abnormalities, metabolic disorders, behavioral anomalies, and tumor development. The affected epigenetic mechanisms included changes in DNA methylation patterns, transcriptome, and expression of DNA methyltransferases. Studies involved experiments in animal models and none were based on human data. In the future, human studies are needed to confirm animal findings. If not transgenerational, at least intergenerational human studies and studies on EDC-induced epigenetic effects on germ cells could help to understand early processes of inheritance. Next, toxicity tests of new chemicals need a more comprehensive approach before they are introduced on the market. We further point to the relevance of epigenetic toxicity tests in regard to public health of the current population but also of future generations. Finally, this review sheds a light on how the interplay of genetics and epigenetics may explain the current knowledge gap on transgenerational inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Van Cauwenbergh
- Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Di Serafino
- Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University "G.d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adelheid Soubry
- Epidemiology Research Center, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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31
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Baxter FA, Drake AJ. Non-genetic inheritance via the male germline in mammals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 374:20180118. [PMID: 30966887 PMCID: PMC6460076 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies in humans and in animal models have demonstrated that exposure to adverse environmental conditions in early life results in long-term structural and functional changes in an organism, increasing the risk of cardiometabolic, neurobehavioural and reproductive disorders in later life. Such effects are not limited to the first generation offspring but may be transmitted to a second or a number of subsequent generations, through non-genomic mechanisms. While the transmission of ‘programmed’ effects through the maternal line could occur as a consequence of multiple influences, for example, altered maternal physiology, the inheritance of effects through the male line is more difficult to explain and there is much interest in a potential role for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms by which induced effects may be transmitted through the paternal lineage, with a particular focus on the role of epigenetic inheritance. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Developing differences: early-life effects and evolutionary medicine’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faye A Baxter
- 1 Royal Hospital for Sick Children , 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh EH9 1LF , UK
| | - Amanda J Drake
- 1 Royal Hospital for Sick Children , 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh EH9 1LF , UK.,2 University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh , 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ , UK
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32
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Chung FFL, Herceg Z. The Promises and Challenges of Toxico-Epigenomics: Environmental Chemicals and Their Impacts on the Epigenome. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2020; 128:15001. [PMID: 31950866 PMCID: PMC7015548 DOI: 10.1289/ehp6104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been estimated that a substantial portion of chronic and noncommunicable diseases can be caused or exacerbated by exposure to environmental chemicals. Multiple lines of evidence indicate that early life exposure to environmental chemicals at relatively low concentrations could have lasting effects on individual and population health. Although the potential adverse effects of environmental chemicals are known to the scientific community, regulatory agencies, and the public, little is known about the mechanistic basis by which these chemicals can induce long-term or transgenerational effects. To address this question, epigenetic mechanisms have emerged as the potential link between genetic and environmental factors of health and disease. OBJECTIVES We present an overview of epigenetic regulation and a summary of reported evidence of environmental toxicants as epigenetic disruptors. We also discuss the advantages and challenges of using epigenetic biomarkers as an indicator of toxicant exposure, using measures that can be taken to improve risk assessment, and our perspectives on the future role of epigenetics in toxicology. DISCUSSION Until recently, efforts to apply epigenomic data in toxicology and risk assessment were restricted by an incomplete understanding of epigenomic variability across tissue types and populations. This is poised to change with the development of new tools and concerted efforts by researchers across disciplines that have led to a better understanding of epigenetic mechanisms and comprehensive maps of epigenomic variation. With the foundations now in place, we foresee that unprecedented advancements will take place in the field in the coming years. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6104.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zdenko Herceg
- Epigenetics Group, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
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33
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Casier K, Boivin A, Carré C, Teysset L. Environmentally-Induced Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance: Implication of PIWI Interacting RNAs. Cells 2019; 8:cells8091108. [PMID: 31546882 PMCID: PMC6770481 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmentally-induced transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is an emerging field. The understanding of associated epigenetic mechanisms is currently in progress with open questions still remaining. In this review, we present an overview of the knowledge of environmentally-induced transgenerational inheritance and associated epigenetic mechanisms, mainly in animals. The second part focuses on the role of PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a class of small RNAs involved in the maintenance of the germline genome, in epigenetic memory to put into perspective cases of environmentally-induced transgenerational inheritance involving piRNA production. Finally, the last part addresses how genomes are facing production of new piRNAs, and from a broader perspective, how this process might have consequences on evolution and on sporadic disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Casier
- Transgenerational Epigenetics & small RNA Biology, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire Biologie du Développement, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, UMR7622, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Antoine Boivin
- Transgenerational Epigenetics & small RNA Biology, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire Biologie du Développement, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, UMR7622, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Clément Carré
- Transgenerational Epigenetics & small RNA Biology, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire Biologie du Développement, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, UMR7622, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Laure Teysset
- Transgenerational Epigenetics & small RNA Biology, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire Biologie du Développement, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, UMR7622, 75005 Paris, France.
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34
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Krishnan K, Hasbum A, Morales D, Thompson LM, Crews D, Gore AC. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals alter the neuromolecular phenotype in F2 generation adult male rats. Physiol Behav 2019; 211:112674. [PMID: 31491443 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2019.112674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) exposures to the fetus have long-lasting effects on health and disease in adulthood. Such EDC exposure to the F1 fetuses also reaches the germ cells that become the F2 generation. Previously, we demonstrated that adult social and communicative behaviors such as ultrasonic vocalizations and mating behaviors were altered by EDCs in F2 rats, especially males. In the current study, we used the brains of these F2 males to ascertain the underlying molecular changes in the hypothalamus related to these behavioral outcomes. Their progenitors were Sprague-Dawley rat dams, treated on pregnancy days 8 to 18 with one of three treatments: a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) mixture, Aroclor 1221, selected because it is weakly estrogenic; the anti-androgenic fungicide vinclozolin (VIN); or the vehicle, 6% dimethylsulfoxide in sesame oil (VEH). In adulthood, F1 male and female offspring were bred with untreated partners to generate paternal or maternal lineages of the F2 offspring, the subjects of molecular work. Quantitative real-time PCR was conducted in the medial preoptic area (POA) and the ventromedial nucleus (VMN) of the hypothalamus, selected for their roles in social and sexual behaviors. Of the genes assessed, steroid hormone receptors (estrogen receptor α, androgen receptor, progesterone receptor) but not dopamine receptors 1 and 2 or DNA methyltransferase 3a expression were altered, particularly in the VIN males. Several significant correlations between behavior and gene expression were also detected. These results suggest that preconceptional exposure of male rats to EDCs at the germ cell stage alters the neuromolecular phenotype in adulthood in a lineage-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krittika Krishnan
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Asbiel Hasbum
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Daniel Morales
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - David Crews
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America; Department of Integrative Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America
| | - Andrea C Gore
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America; Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, United States of America.
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35
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Transcriptome analysis revealed bisphenol A and nonylphenol affect reproduction. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 88:39-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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36
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Scarano WR, Bedrat A, Alonso-Costa LG, Aquino AM, Fantinatti B, Justulin LA, Barbisan LF, Freire PP, Flaws JA, Bernardo L. Exposure to an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture during prostate development induces microRNA upregulation and transcriptome modulation in rats. Toxicol Sci 2019; 171:84-97. [PMID: 31199487 PMCID: PMC6736208 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental exposure to phthalates during intrauterine development might increase susceptibility to neoplasms in reproductive organs such as the prostate. Although studies have suggested an increase in prostatic lesions in adult animals submitted to perinatal exposure to phthalates, the molecular pathways underlying these alterations remain unclear. Genome-wide levels of mRNAs and miRNAs were monitored with RNA-seq to determine if perinatal exposure to a phthalate mixture in pregnant rats is capable of modifying gene expression expression during prostate development of the filial generation. The mixture contains diethyl-phthalate, di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate, dibutyl-phthalate, di-isononyl-phthalate, di-isobutyl-phthalate, and benzylbutyl-phthalate. Pregnant females were divided into 4 groups and orally dosed daily from GD10 to PND21 with corn oil (Control:C) or the phthalate mixture at three doses (20 μg/kg/d:T1; 200 μg/kg/d:T2; 200 mg/kg/d:T3). The phthalate mixture decreased anogenital distance, prostate weight and decreased testosterone level at the lowest exposure dose at PND22. The mixture also increased inflammatory foci and focal hyperplasia incidence at PND120. miR-184 was upregulated in all treated groups in relation to control and miR-141-3p was only upregulated at the lowest dose. In addition, 120 genes were deregulated at the lowest dose with several of these genes related to developmental, differentiation and oncogenesis. The data indicate that phthalate exposure at lower doses can cause greater gene expression modulation as well as other downstream phenotypes than exposure at higher doses. A significant fraction of the downregulated genes were predicted to be targets of miR-141-3p and miR-184, both of which were induced at the lower exposure doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wellerson R Scarano
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.,Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health & Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amina Bedrat
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health & Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luiz G Alonso-Costa
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Ariana M Aquino
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno Fantinatti
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis A Justulin
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis F Barbisan
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Paula P Freire
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, Department of Morphology, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL
| | - Lemos Bernardo
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health & Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences Program, Boston, MA, USA
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Arzuaga X, Smith MT, Gibbons CF, Skakkebæk NE, Yost EE, Beverly BEJ, Hotchkiss AK, Hauser R, Pagani RL, Schrader SM, Zeise L, Prins GS. Proposed Key Characteristics of Male Reproductive Toxicants as an Approach for Organizing and Evaluating Mechanistic Evidence in Human Health Hazard Assessments. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2019; 127:65001. [PMID: 31199676 PMCID: PMC6792367 DOI: 10.1289/ehp5045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessing chemicals for their potential to cause male reproductive toxicity involves the evaluation of evidence obtained from experimental, epidemiological, and mechanistic studies. Although mechanistic evidence plays an important role in hazard identification and evidence integration, the process of identifying, screening and analyzing mechanistic studies and outcomes is a challenging exercise due to the diversity of research models and methods and the variety of known and proposed pathways for chemical-induced toxicity. Ten key characteristics of carcinogens provide a valuable tool for organizing and assessing chemical-specific data by potential mechanisms for cancer-causing agents. However, such an approach has not yet been developed for noncancer adverse outcomes. OBJECTIVES The objective in this study was to identify a set of key characteristics that are frequently exhibited by exogenous agents that cause male reproductive toxicity and that could be applied for identifying, organizing, and summarizing mechanistic evidence related to this outcome. DISCUSSION The identification of eight key characteristics of male reproductive toxicants was based on a survey of known male reproductive toxicants and established mechanisms and pathways of toxicity. The eight key characteristics can provide a basis for the systematic, transparent, and objective organization of mechanistic evidence relevant to chemical-induced effects on the male reproductive system. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP5045.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xabier Arzuaga
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Martyn T. Smith
- University of California, Berkeley, School of Public Health, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Catherine F. Gibbons
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Niels E. Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erin E. Yost
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Brandiese E. J. Beverly
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation, National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrew K. Hotchkiss
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rodrigo L. Pagani
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Steven M. Schrader
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA (retired)
| | - Lauren Zeise
- Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, California Environmental Protection Agency, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Gail S. Prins
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Rosenfeld CS, Cooke PS. Endocrine disruption through membrane estrogen receptors and novel pathways leading to rapid toxicological and epigenetic effects. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 187:106-117. [PMID: 30465854 PMCID: PMC6370520 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen binding to estrogen receptors (ESR) triggers signaling cascades within cells. Historically, a major emphasis has been characterizing estrogen-induced genomic actions resulting from binding to nuclear estrogen receptor 1 (nESR1). However, recent evidence indicates the first receptors estrogens encounter as they enter a cell, membrane ESR1 (mESR1), also play crucial roles. Membrane and nuclear ESR are derived from the same transcripts but the former are directed to the membrane via palmitoylation. Binding and activation of mESR1 leads to rapid fluctuations in cAMP and Ca+2 and stimulation of protein kinase pathways. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) that mimic 17β-estradiol can signal through mESR1 and elicit non-genomic effects. Most current EDC studies have focused on genomic actions via nESR1. However, increasing number of studies have begun to examine potential EDC effects mediated through mESR1, and some EDC might have higher potency for signaling through mESR1 than nESR1. The notion that such chemicals might also affect mESR1 signaling via palmitoylation and depalmitoylation pathways has also begun to gain currency. Recent development of transgenic mice that lack either mESR1 or nESR1, while retaining functional ESR1 in the other compartment, will allow more precise in vivo approaches to determine EDC effects through nESR1 and/or mESR1. It is increasingly becoming apparent in this quickly evolving field that EDC directly affect mESR and estrogen signaling, but such chemicals can also affect proportion of ESR reaching the membrane. Future EDC studies should be designed to consider the full range of effects through mESR alone and in combination with nESR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl S Rosenfeld
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA; Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA; Thompson Center for Autism and Neurobehavioral Disorders, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Paul S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
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Krishnan K, Mittal N, Thompson LM, Rodriguez-Santiago M, Duvauchelle CL, Crews D, Gore AC. Effects of the Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, Vinclozolin and Polychlorinated Biphenyls, on Physiological and Sociosexual Phenotypes in F2 Generation Sprague-Dawley Rats. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2018; 126:97005. [PMID: 30212226 PMCID: PMC6375392 DOI: 10.1289/ehp3550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during gestation influences development of the F1 generation offspring and can result in disease and dysfunction in adulthood. Limited evidence suggests consequences on the F2 generation, exposed as germ cells within the F1 fetus. These F2s provide a unique window into the programming effects of EDCs. OBJECTIVE This study assessed intergenerational effects of EDC exposure on adult physiology and behavior in Sprague-Dawley rats. METHODS Pregnant rats were exposed to either a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) mixture, Aroclor 1,221 (A1221), the fungicide vinclozolin (VIN), or the vehicle (VEH) (6% dimethylsulfoxide in sesame oil) alone. A1221 is weakly estrogenic, while VIN is antiandrogenic, enabling us to compare different classes of EDCs. The F1 male and female offspring were bred to generate the paternal- and maternal-lineage F2 generation. This F2 generation was assessed for physiological outcomes, ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs), and sexual behavior in adulthood. RESULTS Each EDC caused phenotypic effects in a sex- and lineage-dependent manner. The most robustly affected group was the paternal-lineage males. F2 VIN paternal male descendants had increased body weight throughout the lifespan, lower concentrations of circulating estradiol, and lower adrenal and testicular indices. Both VIN and A1221 paternal-lineage males also exhibited the greatest number of changes in the characteristics of USVs in response to an opposite-sex animal and changes in sexual behaviors in a mating test. CONCLUSION Exposure of rats to EDCs at the germ cell stage led to differences in the physiological and behavioral phenotype later in life, especially in males. This finding has implications for multigenerational physiological and reproductive health in wildlife and humans. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP3550.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krittika Krishnan
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Nitish Mittal
- 2 Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Lindsay M Thompson
- 2 Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Christine L Duvauchelle
- 2 Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
| | - David Crews
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
- 4 Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Andrea C Gore
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
- 2 Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
- 3 Institute of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin , Austin, Texas, USA
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Reza AMMT, Choi YJ, Han SG, Song H, Park C, Hong K, Kim JH. Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri-implantation embryos. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2018; 94:415-438. [PMID: 30151880 PMCID: PMC7379200 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Musa Md Talimur Reza
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Gu Han
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chankyu Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
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Zuccarello P, Oliveri Conti G, Cavallaro F, Copat C, Cristaldi A, Fiore M, Ferrante M. Implication of dietary phthalates in breast cancer. A systematic review. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 118:667-674. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Abstract
Environmental factors, particularly during early life, are important for the later metabolic health of the individual. In our obesogenic environment, it is of major socio-economic importance to investigate the mechanisms that contribute to the risk of metabolic ill health. Increasing evidence from a variety of model organisms suggests that non-genetically determined phenotypes, including metabolic effects such as glucose intolerance and obesity, can be passed between generations, which encourages us to revisit heredity. Inheritance of altered epigenetic information through the germ line has been proposed as one plausible mechanism. Whether the germline epigenome can be altered by environmental conditions such as diet and the extent to which this occurs in humans are the subject of intense current interest and debate, especially given that extensive germline epigenetic reprogramming is known to occur. As epigenetic mechanisms are often highly conserved between organisms, studying epigenetic inheritance in plants and lower metazoans has the potential to inform our investigation in mammals. This Review explores the extent to which epigenetic inheritance contributes to heredity in these different organisms, whether the environment can affect epigenetic inheritance and whether there is any evidence for the inheritance of acquired phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Radford
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
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Walker VR, Boyles AL, Pelch KE, Holmgren SD, Shapiro AJ, Blystone CR, Devito MJ, Newbold RR, Blain R, Hartman P, Thayer KA, Rooney AA. Human and animal evidence of potential transgenerational inheritance of health effects: An evidence map and state-of-the-science evaluation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:48-69. [PMID: 29549716 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of reports suggest early life exposures result in adverse effects in offspring who were never directly exposed; this phenomenon is termed "transgenerational inheritance." Given concern for public health implications for potential effects of exposures transmitted to subsequent generations, it is critical to determine how widespread and robust this phenomenon is and to identify the range of exposures and possible outcomes. OBJECTIVES This scoping report examines the evidence for transgenerational inheritance associated with exposure to a wide range of stressors in humans and animals to identify areas of consistency, uncertainty, data gaps, and to evaluate general risk of bias issues for the transgenerational study design. METHODS A protocol was developed to collect and categorize the literature into a systematic evidence map for transgenerational inheritance by health effects, exposures, and evidence streams following the Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) approach for conducting literature-based health assessments. RESULTS A PubMed search yielded 63,758 unique records from which 257 relevant studies were identified and categorized into a systematic evidence map by evidence streams (46 human and 211 animal), broad health effect categories, and exposures. Data extracted from the individual studies are available in the Health Assessment Workspace Collaborative (HAWC) program. There are relatively few bodies of evidence where multiple studies evaluated the same exposure and the same or similar outcomes. Studies evaluated for risk of bias generally had multiple issues in design or conduct. CONCLUSIONS The evidence mapping illustrated that risk of bias, few studies, and heterogeneity in exposures and endpoints examined present serious limitations to available bodies of evidence for assessing transgenerational effects. Targeted research is suggested to addressed inconsistencies and risk of bias issues identified, and thereby establish more robust bodies of evidence to critically assess transgenerational effects - particularly by adding data on exposure-outcome pairs where there is some evidence (i.e., reproductive, metabolic, and neurological effects).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vickie R Walker
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Abee L Boyles
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Katherine E Pelch
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Andrew J Shapiro
- Program Operations Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Chad R Blystone
- Toxicology Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael J Devito
- NTP Laboratory, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Retha R Newbold
- Researcher Emeritus, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Kristina A Thayer
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrew A Rooney
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Cartier J, Smith T, Thomson JP, Rose CM, Khulan B, Heger A, Meehan RR, Drake AJ. Investigation into the role of the germline epigenome in the transmission of glucocorticoid-programmed effects across generations. Genome Biol 2018; 19:50. [PMID: 29636086 PMCID: PMC5891941 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-018-1422-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Early life exposure to adverse environments affects cardiovascular and metabolic systems in the offspring. These programmed effects are transmissible to a second generation through both male and female lines, suggesting germline transmission. We have previously shown that prenatal overexposure to the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (Dex) in rats reduces birth weight in the first generation (F1), a phenotype which is transmitted to a second generation (F2), particularly through the male line. We hypothesize that Dex exposure affects developing germ cells, resulting in transmissible alterations in DNA methylation, histone marks and/or small RNA in the male germline. Results We profile epigenetic marks in sperm from F1 Sprague Dawley rats expressing a germ cell-specific GFP transgene following Dex or vehicle treatment of the mothers, using methylated DNA immunoprecipitation sequencing, small RNA sequencing and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing for H3K4me3, H3K4me1, H3K27me3 and H3K9me3. Although effects on birth weight are transmitted to the F2 generation through the male line, no differences in DNA methylation, histone modifications or small RNA were detected between germ cells and sperm from Dex-exposed animals and controls. Conclusions Although the phenotype is transmitted to a second generation, we are unable to detect specific changes in DNA methylation, common histone modifications or small RNA profiles in sperm. Dex exposure is associated with more variable 5mC levels, particularly at non-promoter loci. Although this could be one mechanism contributing to the observed phenotype, other germline epigenetic modifications or non-epigenetic mechanisms may be responsible for the transmission of programmed effects across generations in this model. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13059-018-1422-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessy Cartier
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Thomas Smith
- MRC Computational Genomics Analysis and Training Programme, University of Oxford, MRC WIMM Centre for Computational Biology, The Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - John P Thomson
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Catherine M Rose
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Batbayar Khulan
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Andreas Heger
- MRC Computational Genomics Analysis and Training Programme, University of Oxford, MRC WIMM Centre for Computational Biology, The Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Oxford, OX3 9DS, UK
| | - Richard R Meehan
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Amanda J Drake
- University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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Latchney SE, Fields AM, Susiarjo M. Linking inter-individual variability to endocrine disruptors: insights for epigenetic inheritance. Mamm Genome 2018; 29:141-152. [PMID: 29218402 PMCID: PMC5849504 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-017-9729-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can induce a myriad of adverse health effects. An area of active investigation is the multi- and transgenerational inheritance of EDC-induced adverse health effects referring to the transmission of phenotypes across multiple generations via the germline. The inheritance of EDC-induced adverse health effects across multiple generations can occur independent of genetics, spurring much research into the transmission of underlying epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetic mechanisms play important roles in the development of an organism and are responsive to environmental exposures. To date, rodent studies have demonstrated that acquired epigenetic marks, particularly DNA methylation, that are inherited following parental EDC exposure can escape embryonic epigenome reprogramming. The acquired epimutations can lead to subsequent adult-onset diseases. Increasing studies have reported inter-individual variations that occur with epigenetic inheritance. Factors that underlie differences among individuals could reveal previously unidentified mechanisms of epigenetic transmission. In this review, we give an overview of DNA methylation and posttranslational histone modification as the potential mechanisms for disease transmission, and define the requirements for multi- and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. We subsequently evaluate rodent studies investigating how acquired changes in epigenetic marks especially DNA methylation across multiple generations can vary among individuals following parental EDC exposure. We also discuss potential sources of inter-individual variations and the challenges in identifying these variations. We conclude our review discussing the challenges in applying rodent generational studies to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Latchney
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Ashley M Fields
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA
| | - Martha Susiarjo
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY, 14642, USA.
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The "evolutionary field" hypothesis. Non-Mendelian transgenerational inheritance mediates diversification and evolution. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 134:27-37. [PMID: 29223657 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics is increasingly regarded as a potential contributing factor to evolution. Building on apparently unrelated results, here I propose that RNA-containing nanovesicles, predominantly small regulatory RNAs, are released from somatic tissues in the bloodstream, cross the Weismann barrier, reach the epididymis, and are eventually taken up by spermatozoa; henceforth the information is delivered to oocytes at fertilization. In the model, a LINE-1-encoded reverse transcriptase activity, present in spermatozoa and early embryos, plays a key role in amplifying and propagating these RNAs as extrachromosomal structures. It may be conceived that, over generations, the cumulative effects of sperm-delivered RNAs would cross a critical threshold and overcome the buffering capacity of embryos. As a whole, the process can promote the generation of an information-containing platform that drives the reshaping of the embryonic epigenetic landscape with the potential to generate ontogenic changes and redirect the evolutionary trajectory. Over time, evolutionary significant, stably acquired variations could be generated through the process. The interplay between these elements defines the concept of "evolutionary field", a self-consistent, comprehensive information-containing platform and a source of discontinuous evolutionary novelty.
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Spadafora C. Sperm-Mediated Transgenerational Inheritance. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2401. [PMID: 29255455 PMCID: PMC5722983 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa of virtually all species can spontaneously take up exogenous DNA or RNA molecules and internalize them into nuclei. In this article I review evidence for a key role of a reverse transcriptase (RT) activity, encoded by LINE-1 retrotransposons, in the fate of the internalized nucleic acid molecules and their implication in transgenerational inheritance. LINE-1-derived RT, present in sperm heads, can reverse-transcribe the internalized molecules in cDNA copies: exogenous RNA is reverse-transcribed in a one-step reaction, whereas DNA is first transcribed into RNA and subsequently reverse-transcribed. Both RNA and cDNA molecules can be delivered from sperm cells to oocytes at fertilization, further propagated throughout embryogenesis and inherited in a non-Mendelian fashion in tissues of adult animals. The reverse-transcribed sequences are extrachromosomal, low-abundance, and mosaic distributed in tissues of adult individuals, where they are variably expressed. These “retrogenes” are transcriptionally competent and induce novel phenotypic traits in animals. Growing evidence indicate that cancer tissues produce DNA- and RNA-containing exosomes. We recently found that these exosomes are released in the bloodstream and eventually taken up into epididymal spermatozoa, consistent with the emerging view that a transgenerational flow of extrachromosomal RNA connects soma to germline and, further, to next generation embryos. Spermatozoa play a crucial bridging role in this process: they act as collectors of somatic information and as delivering vectors to the next generation. On the whole, this phenomenon is compatible with a Lamarckian-type view and closely resembles Darwinian pangenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Spadafora
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology, National Research Council of Italy, Rome, Italy
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MicroRNA Signaling in Embryo Development. BIOLOGY 2017; 6:biology6030034. [PMID: 28906477 PMCID: PMC5617922 DOI: 10.3390/biology6030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is essential for embryonic development and serves important roles in gametogenesis. miRNAs are secreted into the extracellular environment by the embryo during the preimplantation stage of development. Several cell types secrete miRNAs into biological fluids in the extracellular environment. These fluid-derived miRNAs have been shown to circulate the body. Stable transport is dependent on proper packaging of the miRNAs into extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes. These vesicles, which also contain RNA, DNA and proteins, are on the forefront of research on cell-to-cell communication. Interestingly, EVs have been identified in many reproductive fluids, such as uterine fluid, where their miRNA content is proposed to serve as a mechanism of crosstalk between the mother and conceptus. Here, we review the role of miRNAs in molecular signaling and discuss their transport during early embryo development and implantation.
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Abstract
Zebrafish have been extensively used for studying vertebrate development and modeling human diseases such as cancer. In the last two decades, they have also emerged as an important model for developmental toxicology research and, more recently, for studying the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD). It is widely recognized that epigenetic mechanisms mediate the persistent effects of exposure to chemicals during sensitive windows of development. There is considerable interest in understanding the epigenetic mechanisms associated with DOHaD using zebrafish as a model system. This review summarizes our current knowledge on the effects of environmental chemicals on DNA methylation, histone modifications and noncoding RNAs in the context of DOHaD, and suggest some key considerations in designing experiments for characterizating the mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelakanteswar Aluru
- Biology Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA
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Beck D, Sadler-Riggleman I, Skinner MK. Generational comparisons (F1 versus F3) of vinclozolin induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of sperm differential DNA methylation regions (epimutations) using MeDIP-Seq. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2017; 3:dvx016. [PMID: 29147574 PMCID: PMC5685552 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvx016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmentally induced epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease and phenotypic variation has been shown to involve DNA methylation alterations in the germline (e.g. sperm). These differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) are termed epimutations and in part transmit the transgenerational phenotypes. The agricultural fungicide vinclozolin exposure of a gestating female rat has previously been shown to promote transgenerational disease and epimutations in F3 generation (great-grand-offspring) animals. The current study was designed to investigate the actions of direct fetal exposure on the F1 generation rat sperm DMRs compared to the F3 transgenerational sperm DMRs. A protocol involving methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) followed by next-generation sequencing (Seq) was used in the current study. Bioinformatics analysis of the MeDIP-Seq data was developed and several different variations in the bioinformatic analysis were evaluated. Observations indicate needs to be considered. Interestingly, the F1 generation DMRs were found to be fewer in number and for the most part distinct from the F3 generation epimutations. Observations suggest the direct exposure induced F1 generation sperm DMRs appear to promote in subsequent generations alterations in the germ cell developmental programming that leads to the distinct epimutations in the F3 generation. This may help explain the differences in disease and phenotypes between the direct exposure F1 generation and transgenerational F3 generation. Observations demonstrate a distinction between the direct exposure versus transgenerational epigenetic programming induced by environmental exposures and provide insights into the molecular mechanisms involved in the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Ingrid Sadler-Riggleman
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
| | - Michael K. Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA
- Correspondence address. Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4236, USA. Tel: +1-509-335-1524; Fax: +1-509-335-2176; E-mail:
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