Id1 and Id3 are required for neurogenesis, angiogenesis and vascularization of tumour xenografts

Inflammation-induced S100A8 activates Id3 and promotes colorectal tumorigenesis

The aberrant expression of S100A8 and S100A9 is linked to nonresolving inflammation and ultimately to carcinogenesis, whereas the underlying mechanism that allows inflammation to progress to specific cancer types remains unknown. Here, we report that S100A8 was induced by inflammation and then promoted colorectal tumorigenesis downstream by activating Id3 (inhibitor of differentiation 3). Using gene expression profiling and immunohistochemistry, we found that both S100A8 and S100A9 were upregulated in the chemically-induced colitis-associated cancer mouse model and in human colorectal cancer specimens. Furthermore, we showed that S100A8 and S100A9 acted as chemoattractant proteins by recruiting macrophages, promoting the proliferation and invasion of colon cancer cell, as well as spurring the cycle that culminates in the acceleration of cancer metastasis in a nude mouse model. S100A8 regulated colon cancer cell cycle and proliferation by inducing Id3 expression while inhibiting p21. Id3 expression was regulated by Smad5, which was directly phosphorylated by Akt1. Our study revealed a novel mechanism in which inflammation-induced S100A8 promoted colorectal tumorigenesis by acting upstream to activate the Akt1-Smad5-Id3 axis.

Differential expression of id genes and their potential regulator znf238 in zebrafish adult neural progenitor cells and neurons suggests distinct functions in adult neurogenesis

Teleost fish display a remarkable ability to generate new neurons and to repair brain lesions during adulthood. They are, therefore, a very popular model to investigate the molecular mechanisms of constitutive and induced neurogenesis in adult vertebrates. In this study, we investigated the expression patterns of inhibitor of DNA binding (id) genes and of their potential transcriptional repressor, znf238, in the whole brain of adult zebrafish. We show that while id1 is exclusively expressed in ventricular cells in the whole brain, id2a, id3 and id4 genes are expressed in broader areas. Interestingly, znf238 was also detected in these regions, its expression overlapping with id2a, id3 and id4 expression. Further detailed characterization of the id-expressing cells demonstrated that (a) id1 is expressed in type 1 and type 2 neural progenitors as previously published, (b) id2a in type 1, 2 and 3 neural progenitors, (c) id3 in type 3 neural progenitors and (d) id4 in postmitotic neurons. Our data provide a detailed map of id and znf238 expression in the brain of adult zebrafish, supplying a framework for studies of id genes function during adult neurogenesis and brain regeneration in the zebrafish.

Mecp2 regulates neural cell differentiation by suppressing the Id1 to Her2 axis in zebrafish

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurological disorder caused by mutations in the X-linked protein methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). The endogenous function of MeCP2 during neural differentiation is still unclear. Here, we report that mecp2 is required for brain development in zebrafish. Mecp2 was broadly expressed initially in embryos and enriched later in the brain. Either morpholino knockdown or genetic depletion of mecp2 inhibited neuronal differentiation, whereas its overexpression promoted neuronal differentiation, suggesting an essential role of mecp2 in directing neural precursors into differentiated neurons. Mechanistically, her2 (the zebrafish ortholog of mammalian Hes5) was upregulated in mecp2 morphants in an Id1-dependent manner. Moreover, knockdown of either her2 or id1 fully rescued neuronal differentiation in mecp2 morphants. These results suggest that Mecp2 plays an important role in neural cell development by suppressing the Id1–Her2 axis, and provide new evidence that embryonic neural defects contribute to the later motor and cognitive dysfunctions in RTT.

Id1 suppresses anti-tumour immune responses and promotes tumour progression by impairing myeloid cell maturation

A central mechanism of tumour progression and metastasis involves the generation of an immunosuppressive ‘macroenvironment' mediated in part through tumour-secreted factors. Here we demonstrate that upregulation of the Inhibitor of Differentiation 1 (Id1), in response to tumour-derived factors, such as TGFβ, is responsible for the switch from dendritic cell (DC) differentiation to myeloid-derived suppressor cell expansion during tumour progression. Genetic inactivation of Id1 largely corrects the myeloid imbalance, whereas Id1 overexpression in the absence of tumour-derived factors re-creates it. Id1 overexpression leads to systemic immunosuppression by downregulation of key molecules involved in DC differentiation and suppression of CD8 T-cell proliferation, thus promoting primary tumour growth and metastatic progression. Furthermore, advanced melanoma patients have increased plasma TGFβ levels and express higher levels of ID1 in myeloid peripheral blood cells. This study reveals a critical role for Id1 in suppressing the anti-tumour immune response during tumour progression and metastasis.

Tumour progression is promoted by the generation of an immunosuppressive macroenvironment. Here, the authors demonstrate that the Inhibitor of Differentiation 1 promotes the switch from dendritic cell differentiation towards myeloid-derived suppressor cell expansion during tumour progression.

Global Developmental Gene Programing Involves a Nuclear Form of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor-1 (FGFR1)

Genetic studies have placed the Fgfr1 gene at the top of major ontogenic pathways that enable gastrulation, tissue development and organogenesis. Using genome-wide sequencing and loss and gain of function experiments the present investigation reveals a mechanism that underlies global and direct gene regulation by the nuclear form of FGFR1, ensuring that pluripotent Embryonic Stem Cells differentiate into Neuronal Cells in response to Retinoic Acid. Nuclear FGFR1, both alone and with its partner nuclear receptors RXR and Nur77, targets thousands of active genes and controls the expression of pluripotency, homeobox, neuronal and mesodermal genes. Nuclear FGFR1 targets genes in developmental pathways represented by Wnt/β-catenin, CREB, BMP, the cell cycle and cancer-related TP53 pathway, neuroectodermal and mesodermal programing networks, axonal growth and synaptic plasticity pathways. Nuclear FGFR1 targets the consensus sequences of transcription factors known to engage CREB-binding protein, a common coregulator of transcription and established binding partner of nuclear FGFR1. This investigation reveals the role of nuclear FGFR1 as a global genomic programmer of cell, neural and muscle development.

Genomic Analysis of the BMP Family in Glioblastomas

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a grade IV glioma with a median survival of 15 months. Recently, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling has been shown to promote survival in xenograft murine models. To gain a better understanding of the role of BMP signaling in human GBMs, we examined the genomic alterations of 90 genes associated with BMP signaling in GBM patient samples. We completed this analysis using publically available datasets compiled through The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Glioma Molecular Diagnostic Initiative. Here we show how mRNA expression is altered in GBM samples and how that is associated with patient survival, highlighting both known and novel associations between BMP signaling and GBM biology.

Flow-induced protein kinase A-CREB pathway acts via BMP signaling to promote HSC emergence

Kim et al. identify a novel shear stress–induced pathway involving protein kinase A, CREB, and bone morphogenetic protein that regulates hematopoietic stem cell generation in the embryonic aorta.

Fluid shear stress promotes the emergence of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the aorta–gonad–mesonephros (AGM) of the developing mouse embryo. We determined that the AGM is enriched for expression of targets of protein kinase A (PKA)–cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB), a pathway activated by fluid shear stress. By analyzing CREB genomic occupancy from chromatin-immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) data, we identified the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway as a potential regulator of CREB. By chemical modulation of the PKA–CREB and BMP pathways in isolated AGM VE-cadherin⁺ cells from mid-gestation embryos, we demonstrate that PKA–CREB regulates hematopoietic engraftment and clonogenicity of hematopoietic progenitors, and is dependent on secreted BMP ligands through the type I BMP receptor. Finally, we observed blunting of this signaling axis using Ncx1-null embryos, which lack a heartbeat and intravascular flow. Collectively, we have identified a novel PKA–CREB–BMP signaling pathway downstream of shear stress that regulates HSC emergence in the AGM via the endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition.

Retinoic acid signaling and neuronal differentiation

The identification of neurological symptoms caused by vitamin A deficiency pointed to a critical, early developmental role of vitamin A and its metabolite, retinoic acid (RA). The ability of RA to induce post-mitotic, neural phenotypes in various stem cells, in vitro, served as early evidence that RA is involved in the switch between proliferation and differentiation. In vivo studies have expanded this "opposing signal" model, and the number of primary neurons an embryo develops is now known to depend critically on the levels and spatial distribution of RA. The proneural and neurogenic transcription factors that control the exit of neural progenitors from the cell cycle and allow primary neurons to develop are partly elucidated, but the downstream effectors of RA receptor (RAR) signaling (many of which are putative cell cycle regulators) remain largely unidentified. The molecular mechanisms underlying RA-induced primary neurogenesis in anamniote embryos are starting to be revealed; however, these data have been not been extended to amniote embryos. There is growing evidence that bona fide RARs are found in some mollusks and other invertebrates, but little is known about their necessity or functions in neurogenesis. One normal function of RA is to regulate the cell cycle to halt proliferation, and loss of RA signaling is associated with dedifferentiation and the development of cancer. Identifying the genes and pathways that mediate cell cycle exit downstream of RA will be critical for our understanding of how to target tumor differentiation. Overall, elucidating the molecular details of RAR-regulated neurogenesis will be decisive for developing and understanding neural proliferation-differentiation switches throughout development.

Id1 Deficiency Protects against Tumor Formation in Apc(Min/+) Mice but Not in a Mouse Model of Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer

Different mechanisms contribute to the development of sporadic, hereditary and colitis-associated colorectal cancer. Inhibitor of DNA binding/differentiation (Id) proteins act as dominant-negative antagonists of basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors. Id1 is a promising target for cancer therapy, but little is known about its role in the development of colon cancer. We used immunohistochemistry to demonstrate that Id1 is overexpressed in human colorectal adenomas and carcinomas, whether sporadic or syndromic. Furthermore, elevated Id1 levels were found in dysplasia and colon cancer arising in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Because levels of PGE2 are also elevated in both colitis and colorectal neoplasia, we determined whether PGE2 could induce Id1. PGE2 via EP4 stimulated protein kinase A activity resulting in enhanced pCREB-mediated Id1 transcription in human colonocytes. To determine the role of Id1 in carcinogenesis, two mouse models were used. Consistent with the findings in humans, Id1 was overexpressed in tumors arising in both Apc(Min) (/+) mice, a model of familial adenomatous polyposis, and in experimental colitis-associated colorectal neoplasia. Id1 deficiency led to significant decrease in the number of intestinal tumors in Apc(Min) (/+) mice and prolonged survival. In contrast, Id1 deficiency did not affect the number or size of tumors in the model of colitis-associated colorectal neoplasia, likely due to exacerbation of colitis associated with Id1 loss. Collectively, these results suggest that Id1 plays a role in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. Our findings also highlight the need for different strategies to reduce the risk of colitis-associated colorectal cancer compared with sporadic or hereditary colorectal cancer.

Id3 induces an Elk-1-caspase-8-dependent apoptotic pathway in squamous carcinoma cells

Inhibitor of differentiation/DNA-binding (Id) proteins are helix–loop–helix (HLH) transcription factors. The Id protein family (Id1–Id4) mediates tissue homeostasis by regulating cellular processes including differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Ids typically function as dominant negative HLH proteins, which bind other HLH proteins and sequester them away from DNA promoter regions. Previously, we have found that Id3 induced apoptosis in immortalized human keratinocytes upon UVB exposure, consistent with its role as a tumor suppressor. To investigate the role of Id3 in malignant squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells (A431), a tetracycline-regulated inducible system was used to induce Id3 in cell culture and mouse xenograft models. We found that upon Id3 induction, there was a decrease in cell number under low serum conditions, as well as in soft agar. Microarray, RT-PCR, immunoblot, siRNA, and inhibitor studies revealed that Id3 induced expression of Elk-1, an E-twenty-six (ETS)-domain transcription factor, inducing procaspase-8 expression and activation. Id3 deletion mutants revealed that 80 C-terminal amino acids, including the HLH, are important for Id3-induced apoptosis. In a mouse xenograft model, Id3 induction decreased tumor size by 30%. Using immunofluorescent analysis, we determined that the tumor size decrease was also mediated through apoptosis. Furthermore, we show that Id3 synergizes with 5-FU and cisplatin therapies for nonmelanoma skin cancer cells. Our studies have shown a molecular mechanism by which Id3 induces apoptosis in SCC, and this information can potentially be used to develop new treatments for SCC patients.

An arabinogalactan from flowers of Panax notoginseng inhibits angiogenesis by BMP2/Smad/Id1 signaling

Angiogenesis plays an essential role in tumor development. Blocking angiogenesis in tumor has become a promising tactic in limiting cancer progression. Here, an arabinogalactan polysaccharide, RN1 was isolated from flowers of Panax notoginseng. Its structure was determined to possess a backbone of 1,6-linked Galp branched at C3 by side 1,3-linked Galp, with branches attached at position O-3 of it. The branches mainly contained 1,5-linked, 1,3,5-linked, terminal Arabinose and terminal Galactose. RN1 could inhibit microvessel formation in the BxPC-3 pancreatic cancer cell xenograft tumor in nude mice. The antiangiogenesis assay showed that RN1 could reduce the migratory activity of endothelial cells and their ability of tube formation on matrigel, but no effect on endothelial cells growth. Further studies revealed that RN1 could inhibit BMP2/Smad1/5/8/Id1 signaling. All those data indicated the RN1 had an antiangiogenic effect via BMP2 signaling and could be a potential novel inhibitor of angiogenesis.

Expression and function of the ID1 gene during transforming growth factor-β1-induced differentiation of human embryonic stem cells to endothelial cells

ID1 can mediate transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/activin receptor-like kinase-1 (ALK1)-induced (and Smad-dependent) migration in endothelial cells (ECs). However, the role that ID1 plays during differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) into ECs induced by TGF-β1 remains unclear. In this study, a hESC differentiation model that recapitulates the developmental steps of vasculogenesis during the early stages of embryonic development was used to explore this question. We found that TGF-β1 increases endothelial cell differentiation and inhibits endothelial tube formation. Furthermore, at an early stage of differentiation, TGF-β1 may induce in vitro differentiation of hESCs into ECs by inhibiting expression of ID1, while at a later stage of differentiation, TGF-β1 may stimulate the proliferation and migration of ECs via the ALK1/Smad1/5/ID1 pathway. Downregulation of ID1 by gene silencing can lead to acceleration of TGF-β1-induced hESC differentiation into ECs and inhibition of proliferation and migration of ECs. This study may reveal some mechanisms of in vivo vasculogenesis in the early stages of embryonic development.

Changes in the expression of DNA-binding/differentiation protein inhibitors in neurons and glial cells of the gerbil hippocampus following transient global cerebral ischemia

Inhibitors of DNA-binding/differentiation (ID) proteins bind to basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors, including those that regulate differentiation and cell-cycle progression during development, and regulate gene transcription. However, little is known about the role of ID proteins in the brain under transient cerebral ischemic conditions. In the present study, we examined the effects of ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury on the immunoreactivity and protein levels of IDs 1–4 in the gerbil hippocampus proper Cornu Ammonis regions CA1–3 following 5 min of transient cerebral ischemia. Strong ID1 immunoreactivity was detected in the nuclei of pyramidal neurons in the hippocampal CA1–3 regions; immunoreactivity was significantly changed following I-R in the CA1 region, but not in the CA2/3 region. Five days following I-R, ID1 immunoreactivity was not detected in the CA1 pyramidal neurons. ID1 immunoreactivity was detected only in GABAergic interneurons in the ischemic CA1 region. Weak ID4 immunoreactivity was detected in non-pyramidal cells, and immunoreactivity was again only changed in the ischemic CA1 region. Five days following I-R, strong ID4 immunoreactivity was detected in non-pyramidal cells, which were identified as microglia, and not astrocytes, in the ischemic CA1 region. Furthermore, changes in the protein levels of ID1 and ID4 in the ischemic CA1 region studied by western blot were consistent with patterns of immunoreactivity. In summary, these results indicate that immunoreactivity and protein levels of ID1 and ID4 are distinctively altered following transient cerebral ischemia only in the CA1 region, and that the changes in ID1 and ID4 expression may relate to the ischemia-induced delayed neuronal death.

Berberine suppresses Id-1 expression and inhibits the growth and development of lung metastases in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an invasive cancer with a high rate of recurrence and metastasis. Agents with anti-proliferative as well as anti-metastatic activity will be ideal for effective treatment. Here, we demonstrated that berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid, harbored potent anti-metastatic and anti-proliferative activities in vivo. Using an orthotopic model of HCC (MHCC-97L), which spontaneously develops lung metastases (one of the most common sites of HCC metastasis), we found that berberine treatment (10mg/kg/2days) significantly reduced lung metastasis from the liver tumors by ~85% (quantitated by bioluminescence emitted from lung metastases). Histological examination also confirmed the reduced incidence and number of lung metastases in berberine-treated mice. Furthermore, berberine effectively suppressed extra-tumor invasion of the primary HCC implant into the surrounding normal liver tissue, illustrating its potent anti-metastatic action in vivo. Consistent with previous reports in other cancer, berberine's anti-tumor activity was accompanied by suppression of cellular proliferation, invasiveness and HIF-1α/VEGF signaling. Strikingly, further mechanistic investigation revealed that berberine exerted profound inhibitory effect on the expression of Id-1, which is a key regulator for HCC development and metastasis. Berberine could suppress the transcription level of Id-1 through inhibiting its promotor activity. Specific downregulation of Id-1 by knocking down its RNA transcripts in HCC cells inhibited cellular growth, invasion and VEGF secretion, demonstrating the functional relevance of Id-1 downregulation induced by berberine. Lastly, berberine's anti-proliferative and anti-invasive activities could be partially rescued by Id-1 overexpression in HCC models, revealing a novel anti-cancer/anti-invasive mechanism of berberine via Id-1 suppression.

The potential role of inhibitor of differentiation-3 in human adipose tissue remodeling and metabolic health

Metabolic health in obesity is known to differ among individuals, and the distribution of visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) plays an important role in this regard. Adipose tissue expansion is dependent on new blood vessel formation in order to prevent hypoxia and inflammation in the tissue. Regulation of angiogenesis in SAT and VAT in response to diet is therefore crucial for the metabolic outcome in obesity. Knowledge about the underlying genetic mechanisms determining metabolic health in obesity is very limited. We aimed to review the literature of the inhibitor of differentiation-3 (ID3) gene in relation to adipose tissue and angiogenesis in humans in order to determine whether ID3 could be involved in the regulation of adipose tissue expansion and metabolic health in human obesity. We find evidence that ID3 is involved in regulatory mechanisms in adipose tissue and regulates angiogenesis in many tissues including adipose tissue. We discuss how this might influence obesity and metabolic health in obesity and further discuss some potential mechanisms by which ID3 might regulate visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue expansion. The combined results from the reviewed literature suggest ID3 to play a potential role in the underlying regulatory mechanisms of metabolic health in human obesity. The literature is still sparse and further studies focusing on human ID3 in relation to the nature of obesity are warranted.

Direct interaction between Id1 and Zrf1 controls neural differentiation of embryonic stem cells

Id proteins are dominant-negative regulators within the HLH family of proteins. In embryonic stem cells (ESCs), Id1 and Id3 maintain the pluripotent state by preventing neural differentiation. The Id1-interacting protein Zrf1 plays a crucial role as a chromatin-bound factor in specification of the neural fate from ESCs. Here, we show that Id1 blocks Zrf1 recruitment to chromatin, thus preventing the activation of neural genes in ESCs. Upon differentiation, Id1 expression decreases thus inducing Zrf1 binding to neural genes. Importantly, depletion of Zrf1 rescues the expression of Polycomb targets involved in neural specification which are up-regulated in Id1 knock-out ESCs. We therefore identified Zrf1 as transcriptional regulator of neural fate downstream of Id1 in ESCs.

miRNA-17 members that target Bmpr2 influence signaling mechanisms important for embryonic stem cell differentiation in vitro and gastrulation in embryos

Body axes and germ layers evolve at gastrulation, and in mammals are driven by many genes; however, what orchestrates the genetic pathways during gastrulation remains elusive. Previously, we presented evidence that microRNA-17 (miRNA-17) family members, miR-17-5p, miR-20a, miR-93, and miR-106a were differentially expressed in mouse embryos and functioned to control differentiation of the stem cell population. Here, we identify function(s) that these miRNAs have during gastrulation. Fluorescent in situ hybridization miRNA probes reveal that these miRNAs are localized at the mid/posterior primitive streak (ps) in distinct populations of primitive ectoderm, mesendoderm, and mesoderm. Seven different miRNA prediction algorithms are identified in silico bone morphogenic protein receptor 2 (Bmpr2) as a target of these miRNAs. Bmpr2 is a member of the TGFβ pathway and invokes stage-specific changes during gastrulation. Recently, Bmpr2 was shown regulating cytoskeletal dynamics, cell movement, and invasion. Our previous and current data led to a hypothesis by which members of the miR-17 family influence gastrulation by suppressing Bmpr2 expression at the primitive streak. This suppression influences fate decisions of cells by affecting genes downstream of BMPR2 as well as mesoderm invasion through regulation of actin dynamics.

ID1 is a functional marker for intestinal stem and progenitor cells required for normal response to injury

LGR5 and BMI1 mark intestinal stem cells in crypt base columnar cells and +4 position cells, respectively, but characterization of functional markers in these cell populations is limited. ID1 maintains the stem cell potential of embryonic, neural, and long-term repopulating hematopoietic stem cells. Here, we show in both human and mouse intestine that ID1 is expressed in cycling columnar cells, +4 position cells, and transit-amplifying cells in the crypt. Lineage tracing revealed ID1+ cells to be self-renewing, multipotent stem/progenitor cells that are responsible for the long-term renewal of the intestinal epithelium. Single ID1+ cells can generate long-lived organoids resembling mature intestinal epithelium. Complete knockout of Id1 or selective deletion of Id1 in intestinal epithelium or in LGR5+ stem cells sensitizes mice to chemical-induced colon injury. These experiments identify ID1 as a marker for intestinal stem/progenitor cells and demonstrate a role for ID1 in maintaining the potential for repair in response to colonic injury.

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ID1 is expressed in mouse and human intestinal and colonic stem and progenitor cells

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ID1+ cells are long-lived and multipotent

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Deletion of Id1 in stem and progenitor cells sensitizes mice to colon injury

Regulation of EPCs: The Gateway to Blood Vessel Formation

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are primitive endothelial precursors which are known to functionally contribute to the pathogenesis of disease. To date a number of distinct subtypes of these cells have been described, with differing maturation status, cellular phenotype, and function. Although there is much debate on which subtype constitutes the true EPC population, all subtypes have endothelial characteristics and contribute to neovascularisation. Vasculogenesis, the process by which EPCs contribute to blood vessel formation, can be dysregulated in disease with overabundant vasculogenesis in the context of solid tumours, leading to tumour growth and metastasis, and conversely insufficient vasculogenesis can be present in an ischemic environment. Importantly, it is widely known that transcription factors tightly regulate cellular phenotype and function by controlling the expression of particular target genes and in turn regulating specific signalling pathways. This suggests that transcriptional regulators may be potential therapeutic targets to control EPC function. Herein, we discuss the observed EPC subtypes described in the literature and review recent studies describing the role of a number of transcriptional families in the regulation of EPC phenotype and function in normal and pathological conditions.

Transcriptional regulatory events initiated by Ascl1 and Neurog2 during neuronal differentiation of P19 embryonic carcinoma cells

As members of the proneural basic-helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors, Ascl1 and Neurog2 direct the differentiation of specific populations of neurons at various times and locations within the developing nervous system. In order to characterize the mechanisms employed by these two bHLH factors, we generated stable, doxycycline-inducible lines of P19 embryonic carcinoma cells that express comparable levels of Ascl1 and Neurog2. Upon induction, both Ascl1 and Neurog2 directed morphological and immunocytochemical changes consistent with initiation of neuronal differentiation. Comparison of Ascl1- and Neurog2-regulated genes by microarray analyses showed both shared and distinct transcriptional changes for each bHLH protein. In both Ascl1- and Neurog2-differentiating cells, repression of Oct4 mRNA levels was accompanied by increased Oct4 promoter methylation. However, DNA demethylation was not detected for genes induced by either bHLH protein. Neurog2-induced genes included glutamatergic marker genes while Ascl1-induced genes included GABAergic marker genes. The Neurog2-specific induction of a gene encoding a protein phosphatase inhibitor, Ppp1r14a, was dependent on distinct, canonical E-box sequences within the Ppp1r14a promoter and the nucleotide sequences within these E-boxes were partially responsible for Neurog2-specific regulation. Our results illustrate multiple novel mechanisms by which Ascl1 and Neurog2 regulate gene repression during neuronal differentiation in P19 cells.

Gfi-1 regulates the erythroid transcription factor network through Id2 repression in murine hematopoietic progenitor cells

Growth factor independence 1 (Gfi-1) is a part of the transcriptional network that regulates the development of adult hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Gfi-1-null (Gfi-1(-/-)) mice have reduced numbers of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), impaired radioprotective function of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs), and myeloid and erythroid hyperplasia. We found that the development of HPCs and erythropoiesis, but not HSC function, was rescued by reducing the expression of inhibitor of DNA-binding protein 2 (Id2) in Gfi-1(-/-) mice. Analysis of Gfi-1(-/-);Id2(+/-) mice revealed that short-term HSCs, common myeloid progenitors (CMPs), erythroid burst-forming units, colony-forming units in spleen, and more differentiated red cells were partially restored by reducing Id2 levels in Gfi-1(-/-) mice. Moreover, short-term reconstituting cells, and, to a greater extent, CMP and megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitor development, and red blood cell production (anemia) were rescued in mice transplanted with Gfi-1(-/-);Id2(+/-) bone marrow cells (BMCs) in comparison with Gfi-1(-/-) BMCs. Reduction of Id2 expression in Gfi-1(-/-) mice increased the expression of Gata1, Eklf, and EpoR, which are required for proper erythropoiesis. Reducing the levels of other Id family members (Id1 and Id3) in Gfi-1(-/-) mice did not rescue impaired HPC function or erythropoiesis. These data provide new evidence that Gfi-1 is linked to the erythroid gene regulatory network by repressing Id2 expression.

Microvascular lesions by estrogen-induced ID3: its implications in cerebral and cardiorenal vascular disease

Severe symptoms of cerebral and cardiorenal vascular diseases can be triggered when cerebral, coronary, or glomerular arterioles grow inappropriately as a result of abnormal cell proliferation. The risk factor(s) and molecular mechanisms responsible for microvascular lesion formation are largely unknown. Although controversial, both animal and epidemiological studies have shown that estrogen increases the risk of stroke which may be due to microvascular lesions. Since microvascular diseases are characterized by excessive vessel growth, it is plausible that estrogen-induced neovascularization contributes to the growth of microvascular lesions. We present evidence for how ID3 overexpression in endothelial cells contributes to the development of an estrogen-induced neovascular phenotype with an additional focus on Pyk2 kinase. Our data showed that ID3 overexpression increased neovascularization, cell migration, and spheroid growth of human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells, hCMEC/D3. ID3-overexpressing cells showed significant estrogen-induced G2/M phase transition. Estrogen treatment increased both ID3 phosphorylation; total protein that was inhibited by tamoxifen, and Pyk2-mediated estrogen-induced ID3 mRNA expression. These findings suggest that Pyk2 signals ID3 expression and ID3 is necessary for estrogen-induced neovascularization in hCMEC/D3 cells. A better understanding of how microvascular lesions depend on ID3 may open new avenues for prevention and treatment of neurological diseases.

Increased expression of Id1 and Id3 promotes tumorigenicity by enhancing angiogenesis and suppressing apoptosis in small cell lung cancer

Constant deregulation of Id1 and Id3 has been implicated in a wide range of carcinomas. However, underlying molecular evidence for the joint role of Id1 and Id3 in the tumorigenicity of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is sparse. Investigating the biological significance of elevated expression in SCLC cells, we found that Id1 and Id3 co-suppression resulted in significant reduction of proliferation rate, invasiveness and anchorage-independent growth. Suppressing both Id1 and Id3 expression also greatly reduced the average size of tumors produced by transfectant cells when inoculated subcutaneously into nude mice. Further investigation revealed that suppressed expression of Id1 and Id3 was accompanied by decreased angiogenesis and increased apoptosis. Therefore, the SCLC tumorigenicity suppression effect of double knockdown of Id1 and Id3 may be regulated through pathways of apoptosis and angiogenesis.

Diversity is in my veins: role of bone morphogenetic protein signaling during venous morphogenesis in zebrafish illustrates the heterogeneity within endothelial cells

Endothelial cells are a highly diverse group of cells which display distinct cellular responses to exogenous stimuli. Although the aptly named vascular endothelial growth factor-A signaling pathway is hailed as the most important signaling input for endothelial cells, additional factors also participate in regulating diverse aspects of endothelial behaviors and functions. Given this heterogeneity, these additional factors seem to play a critical role in creating a custom-tailored environment to regulate behaviors and functions of distinct subgroups of endothelial cells. For instance, molecular cues that modulate morphogenesis of arterial vascular beds can be distinct from those that govern morphogenesis of venous vascular beds. Recently, we have found that bone morphogenetic protein signaling selectively promotes angiogenesis from venous vascular beds without eliciting similar responses from arterial vascular beds in zebrafish, indicating that bone morphogenetic protein signaling functions as a context-dependent regulator during vascular morphogenesis. In this review, we will provide an overview of the molecular mechanisms that underlie proangiogenic effects of bone morphogenetic protein signaling on venous vascular beds in the context of endothelial heterogeneity and suggest a more comprehensive picture of the molecular mechanisms of vascular morphogenesis during development.

Neural deletion of Tgfbr2 impairs angiogenesis through an altered secretome

Simultaneous generation of neural cells and that of the nutrient-supplying vasculature during brain development is called neurovascular coupling. We report on a transgenic mouse with impaired transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)-signalling in forebrain-derived neural cells using a Foxg1-cre knock-in to drive the conditional knock-out of the Tgfbr2. Although the expression of FOXG1 is assigned to neural progenitors and neurons of the telencephalon, Foxg1^cre/+;Tgfbr2^flox/flox (Tgfbr2-cKO) mutants displayed intracerebral haemorrhage. Blood vessels exhibited an atypical, clustered appearance were less in number and displayed reduced branching. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A, insulin-like growth factor (IGF) 1, IGF2, TGFβ, inhibitor of DNA binding (ID) 1, thrombospondin (THBS) 2, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS) 1 were altered in either expression levels or tissue distribution. Accordingly, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) displayed branching defects after stimulation with conditioned medium (CM) that was derived from primary neural cultures of the ventral and dorsal telencephalon of Tgfbr2-cKO. Supplementing CM of Tgfbr2-cKO with VEGFA rescued these defects, but application of TGFβ aggravated them. HUVEC showed reduced migration towards CM of mutants compared with controls. Supplementing the CM with growth factors VEGFA, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 2 and IGF1 partially restored HUVEC migration. In contrast, TGFβ supplementation further impaired migration of HUVEC. We observed differences along the dorso-ventral axis of the telencephalon with regard to the impact of these factors on the phenotype. Together these data establish a TGFBR2-dependent molecular crosstalk between neural and endothelial cells during brain vessel development. These findings will be useful to further elucidate neurovascular interaction in general and to understand pathologies of the blood vessel system such as intracerebral haemorrhages, hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia, Alzheimeŕs disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy or tumour biology.

Characterization of the BAC Id3-enhanced green fluorescent protein transgenic mouse line for in vivo imaging of astrocytes

Astrocytes are highly ramified glial cells with critical roles in brain physiology and pathology. Recently, breakthroughs in imaging technology have expanded our understanding of astrocyte function in vivo. The in vivo study of astrocytic dynamics, however, is limited by the tools available to label astrocytes and their processes. Here, we characterize the bacterial artificial chromosome transgenic Id3-EGFP knock-in mouse to establish its usefulness for in vivo imaging of astrocyte processes. Using fixed brain sections, we observed enhanced green fluorescent protein expression in astrocytes and blood vessel walls throughout the brain, although the extent and cell type specificity of expression depended on the brain area and developmental age. Using in vivo two-photon imaging, we visualized astrocytes in cortical layers 1-3 in both thin skull and window preparations. In adult animals, astrocytic cell bodies and fine processes could be followed over many hours. Our results suggest that Id3 mice could be used for in vivo imaging of astrocytes and blood vessels in development and adulthood.

ID1 promotes breast cancer metastasis by S100A9 regulation

Metastasis is a major factor responsible for mortality in patients with breast cancer. Inhibitor of DNA binding 1 (Id1) has been shown to play an important role in cell differentiation, tumor angiogenesis, cell invasion, and metastasis. Despite the data establishing Id1 as a critical factor for lung metastasis in breast cancer, the pathways and molecular mechanisms of Id1 functions in metastasis remain to be defined. Here, we show that Id1 interacts with TFAP2A to suppress S100A9 expression. We show that expression of Id1 and S100A9 is inversely correlated in both breast cancer cell lines and clinical samples. We also show that the migratory and invasive phenotypes in vitro and metastasis in vivo induced by Id1 expression are rescued by reestablishment of S100A9 expression. S100A9 also suppresses the expression of known metastasis-promoting factor RhoC activated by Id1 expression. Our results suggest that Id1 promotes breast cancer metastasis by the suppression of S100A9 expression.

IMPLICATIONS

Novel pathways by Id1 regulation in metastasis.

Inhibitor of differentiation 4 (ID4) inactivation promotes de novo steroidogenesis and castration-resistant prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the Western world. The transition of androgen-dependent PCa to castration-resistant (CRPC) is a major clinical manifestation during disease progression and presents a therapeutic challenge. Our studies have shown that genetic ablation of inhibitor of differentiation 4 (Id4), a dominant-negative helix loop helix protein, in mice results in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia lesions and decreased Nkx3.1 expression without the loss of androgen receptor (Ar) expression. ID4 is also epigenetically silenced in the majority of PCa. However, the clinical relevance and molecular pathways altered by ID4 inactivation in PCa are not known. This study investigates the effect of loss of ID4 in PCa cell lines on tumorigenicity and addresses the underlying mechanism. Stable silencing of ID4 in LNCaP cells (L-ID4) resulted in increased proliferation, migration, invasion, and anchorage-independent growth. An increase in the rate of tumor growth, weight, and volume was observed in L-ID4 xenografts compared with that in the LNCaP cells transfected with nonspecific short hairpin RNA (L+ns) in noncastrated mice. Interestingly, tumors were also observed in castrated mice, suggesting that loss of ID4 promotes CRPC. RNA sequence analysis revealed a gene signature mimicking that of constitutively active AR in L-ID4, which was consistent with gain of de novo steroidogenesis. Prostate-specific antigen expression as a result of persistent AR activation was observed in L-ID4 cells but not in L+ns cells. The results demonstrate that ID4 acts as a tumor suppressor in PCa, and its loss, frequently observed in PCa, promotes CRPC through constitutive AR activation.

Id1 expression promotes T regulatory cell differentiation by facilitating TCR costimulation

T regulatory (Treg) cells play crucial roles in the regulation of cellular immunity. The development of Treg cells depends on signals from TCRs and IL-2Rs and is influenced by a variety of transcription factors. The basic helix-loop-helix proteins are known to influence TCR signaling thresholds. Whether this property impacts Treg differentiation is not understood. In this study, we interrogated the role of basic helix-loop-helix proteins in the production of Treg cells using the CD4 promoter-driven Id1 transgene. We found that Treg cells continued to accumulate as Id1 transgenic mice aged, resulting in a significant increase in Treg cell counts in the thymus as well as in the periphery compared with wild-type controls. Data from mixed bone marrow assays suggest that Id1 acts intrinsically on developing Treg cells. We made a connection between Id1 expression and CD28 costimulatory signaling because Id1 transgene expression facilitated the formation of Treg precursors in CD28(-/-) mice and the in vitro differentiation of Treg cells on thymic dendritic cells despite the blockade of costimulation by anti-CD80/CD86. Id1 expression also allowed in vitro Treg differentiation without anti-CD28 costimulation, which was at least in part due to enhanced production of IL-2. Notably, with full strength of costimulatory signals, however, Id1 expression caused modest but significant suppression of Treg induction. Finally, we demonstrate that Id1 transgenic mice were less susceptible to the induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, thus illustrating the impact of Id1-mediated augmentation of Treg cell levels on cellular immunity.

Vasculogenesis: a crucial player in the resistance of solid tumours to radiotherapy

Tumours have two main ways to develop a vasculature: by angiogenesis, the sprouting of endothelial cells from nearby blood vessels, and vasculogenesis, the formation of blood vessels from circulating cells. Because tumour irradiation abrogates local angiogenesis, the tumour must rely on the vasculogenesis pathway for regrowth after irradiation. Tumour irradiation produces a marked influx of CD11b(+) myeloid cells (macrophages) into the tumours, and these are crucial to the formation of blood vessels in the tumours after irradiation and for the recurrence of the tumours. This process is driven by increased tumour hypoxia, which increases levels of HIF-1 (hypoxia-inducible factor 1), which in turn upregulates SDF-1 (stromal cell-derived factor 1 or CXCL12), the main driver of the vasculogenesis pathway. Inhibition of HIF-1 or of its downstream target SDF-1 prevents the radiation-induced influx of the CD11b(+) myeloid cells and delays or prevents the tumours from recurring following irradiation. Others and we have shown that with a variety of tumours in both mice and rats, the inhibition of the SDF-1/CXCR4 pathway delays or prevents the recurrence of implanted or autochthonous tumours following irradiation or following treatment with vascular disrupting agents or some chemotherapeutic drugs such as paclitaxel. In addition to the recruited macrophages, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are also recruited to the irradiated tumours, a process also driven by SDF-1. Together, the recruited proangiogenic macrophages and the EPCs reform the tumour vasculature and allow the tumour to regrow following irradiation. This is a new paradigm with major implications for the treatment of solid tumours by radiotherapy.

MicroRNA-885-3p inhibits the growth of HT-29 colon cancer cell xenografts by disrupting angiogenesis via targeting BMPR1A and blocking BMP/Smad/Id1 signaling

The previous studies in this lab discovered that microRNA-885-3p (miR-885-3p) was regulated by a sulfated polysaccharide that bound to bone morphogenetic protein receptor, type IA (BMPR1A) to inhibit angiogenesis. However, its specific role and its mechanism of action in tumor cells have not been elucidated. We show that miR-885-3p markedly suppresses angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. MiR-885-3p inhibits Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and downregulates DNA-binding protein inhibitor ID-1 (Id1), a proangiogenic factor, by targeting BMPR1A, leading to impaired angiogenesis. Overexpression or silencing of BMPR1A affects angiogenesis in a Smad/Id1-dependent manner. We further show that miR-885-3p impairs the growth of HT-29 colon cancer cell xenografts in nude mice by suppressing angiogenesis through disruption of BMPR1A and Smad/Id1 signaling. These results support a novel role for miR-885-3p in tumor angiogenesis by targeting BMPR1A, which regulates a proangiogenic factor, and provide new evidence that targeting miRNAs might be an effective therapeutic strategy for improving colon cancer treatment.

Id transcriptional regulators in adipogenesis and adipose tissue metabolism

Id proteins (Id1-Id4) are helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcriptional regulators that lack a basic DNA binding domain. They act as negative regulators of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors by forming heterodimers and inhibit their DNA binding and transcriptional activity. Id proteins are implicated in the regulation of various cellular mechanisms such as cell proliferation, cellular differentiation, cell fate determination, angiogenesis and tumorigenesis. A handful of recent studies also disclosed that Id proteins have critical functions in adipocyte differentiation and adipose tissue metabolism. Here, we reviewed the progress made thus far in understanding the specific functions of Id proteins in adipose tissue differentiation and metabolism. In addition to reviewing the known mechanisms of action, we also discuss possible additional mechanisms in which Id proteins might participate in regulating adipogenic and metabolic pathways.

TGF-β1-induced expression of Id-1 is associated with tumor progression in gastric cancer

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and inhibitor of differentiation/DNA-binding 1 (Id-1) have been shown to be associated with aggressive metastatic behavior of cancer cells in many malignant tumors. However, their role in gastric cancer (GC) has not been established. In this study, we investigated the relationship between expression of Id-1 and TGF-β1 in GC as well as their association with GC progression. The immunohistochemical analysis of 71 human GC samples indicated that both Id-1 and TGF-β1 were markedly upregulated in tumor tissue compared with the adjacent tissue; in addition, a significant positive correlation was found between the expression levels of Id-1 and TGF-β1 by Pearson's correlation analysis. Furthermore, the investigation of the association of Id-1 and TGF-β1 with patient clinical characteristics revealed that Id-1 expression was significantly correlated with tumor differentiation, while TGF-β1 was associated with lymph node metastasis. The results were validated in vitro by using a GC cell line, AGS. The expression of Id-1 was upregulated at 24 and 48 h after the treatment with TGF-β1, whereas it did not affect the proliferation of cells. TGF-β1 also influenced the expression of N-cadherin and β-catenin. Our results suggested that Id-1 and TGF-β1 played important roles in the progression of GC, in which Id-1 might act as a downstream mediator of TGF-β1 signaling through a regulatory mechanism involving N-cadherin and β-catenin. The TGF-β1/Id-1 axis might serve as a future therapeutic target for GC.

ID proteins regulate diverse aspects of cancer progression and provide novel therapeutic opportunities

The inhibitor of differentiation (ID) proteins are helix-loop-helix transcriptional repressors with established roles in stem cell self-renewal, lineage commitment, and niche interactions. While deregulated expression of ID proteins in cancer was identified more than a decade ago, emerging evidence has revealed a central role for ID proteins in neoplastic progression of multiple tumor types that often mirrors their function in physiological stem and progenitor cells. ID proteins are required for the maintenance of cancer stem cells, self-renewal, and proliferation in a range of malignancies. Furthermore, ID proteins promote metastatic dissemination through their role in remodeling the tumor microenvironment and by promoting tumor-associated endothelial progenitor cell proliferation and mobilization. Here, we discuss the latest findings in this area and the clinical opportunities that they provide.

Inhibitor of DNA-binding protein 1 knockdown arrests the growth of colorectal cancer cells and suppresses hepatic metastasis in vivo

Inhibitor of DNA-binding protein 1 (ID1) is commonly abnormally overexpressed in colorectal cancer (CRC); yet, the functional significance of ID1 in the growth and invasive properties of CRC cells remains largely unclear. The present study investigated the effects of ID1 downregulation on the cell growth and metastatic features of CRC. Using lentiviral shRNA infection, stable ID1-knockdown (KD) HCT116 and SW620 cells, human metastatic CRC cell lines, were created. In vitro, the migration/invasion capacity of the ID1-KD CRC cells was assessed by a wound healing assay. The activities of MMP2 and MMP-9 were measured by gelatin zymography. The expression of CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), PCNA and survivin were determined by immunoblot analysis and qRT-PCR. The effects of ID1 knockdown on tumor growth and hepatic metastasis were demonstrated by a xenograft study in mice. The results showed evident decreases in proliferation, migration and invasion and an increased apoptosis rate in the ID1-KD CRC cells. Similarly, ID1 knockdown significantly decreased mRNA and protein levels of PCNA, survivin, CXCR4, MMP2 and MMP9. Overexpression of CXCR4 antagonized the negative effect on the migration and invasion abilities of the ID1-KD cells. As compared with the control, ID1 knockdown prevented tumor growth and profoundly suppressed hepatic metastasis in vivo. The present study demonstrated the significance of ID1 in colon cancer progression, and its effect on tumor invasiveness and metastatic properties may be partly dependent on CXCR4.

Elevated Id2 expression results in precocious neural stem cell depletion and abnormal brain development

Id2 is a helix-loop-helix transcription factor essential for normal development, and its expression is dysregulated in many human neurological conditions. Although it is speculated that elevated Id2 levels contribute to the pathogenesis of these disorders, it is unknown whether dysregulated Id2 expression is sufficient to perturb normal brain development or function. Here, we show that mice with elevated Id2 expression during embryonic stages develop microcephaly, and that females in particular are prone to generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Analyses of Id2 transgenic brains indicate that Id2 activity is highly cell context specific: elevated Id2 expression in naive neural stem cells (NSCs) in early neuroepithelium induces apoptosis and loss of NSCs and intermediate progenitors. Activation of Id2 in maturing neuroepithelium results in less severe phenotypes and is accompanied by elevation of G1 cyclin expression and p53 target gene expression. In contrast, activation of Id2 in committed intermediate progenitors has no significant phenotype. Functional analysis with Id2-overexpressing and Id2-null NSCs shows that Id2 negatively regulates NSC self-renewal in vivo, in contrast to previous cell culture experiments. Deletion of p53 function from Id2-transgenic brains rescues apoptosis and results in increased incidence of brain tumors. Furthermore, Id2 overexpression normalizes the increased self-renewal of p53-null NSCs, suggesting that Id2 activates and modulates the p53 pathway in NSCs. Together, these data suggest that elevated Id2 expression in embryonic brains can cause deregulated NSC self-renewal, differentiation, and survival that manifest in multiple neurological outcomes in mature brains, including microcephaly, seizures, and brain tumors.

Developmental and pathological angiogenesis in the central nervous system

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing vessels, in the central nervous system (CNS) is seen both as a normal physiological response as well as a pathological step in disease progression. Formation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an essential step in physiological CNS angiogenesis. The BBB is regulated by a neurovascular unit (NVU) consisting of endothelial and perivascular cells as well as vascular astrocytes. The NVU plays a critical role in preventing entry of neurotoxic substances and regulation of blood flow in the CNS. In recent years, research on numerous acquired and hereditary disorders of the CNS has increasingly emphasized the role of angiogenesis in disease pathophysiology. Here, we discuss molecular mechanisms of CNS angiogenesis during embryogenesis as well as various pathological states including brain tumor formation, ischemic stroke, arteriovenous malformations, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Inhibiting vasculogenesis after radiation: a new paradigm to improve local control by radiotherapy

Tumors are supported by blood vessels, and it has long been debated whether their response to irradiation is affected by radiation damage to the vasculature. We have shown in preclinical models that, indeed, radiation is damaging to the tumor vasculature and strongly inhibits tumor angiogenesis. However, the vasculature can recover by colonization from circulating cells, primarily proangiogenenic CD11b+ monocytes or macrophages from the bone marrow. This secondary pathway of blood vessel formation, known as vasculogenesis, thus acts to restore the tumor vasculature and allows the tumor to recur following radiation. The stimulus for the influx of these CD11b+ cells into tumors following irradiation is the increased levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 in the tumor due to induced tumor hypoxia secondary to blood vessel loss. This increases tumor levels of the chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1, which has chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7 on monocytes and endothelial cells thereby capturing these cells in the tumors. The increase in CD11b+ monocytes in tumors following irradiation can be prevented using antibodies or small molecules that inhibit hypoxia-inducible factor-1 or the interaction of stromal cell-derived factor-1 with its receptors. We show that the effect of inhibiting these chemokine-chemokine receptor interactions is a marked increase in the radiation response of transplanted or chemically induced tumors in mice and rats. This strategy of inhibiting vasculogenesis following tumor irradiation is a new paradigm in radiotherapy and suggests that higher levels of local control of tumors in several sites would be achievable with this strategy.

Tis21 is required for adult neurogenesis in the subventricular zone and for olfactory behavior regulating cyclins, BMP4, Hes1/5 and Ids

Bone morphogenic proteins (BMPs) and the Notch pathway regulate quiescence and self-renewal of stem cells of the subventricular zone (SVZ), an adult neurogenic niche. Here we analyze the role at the intersection of these pathways of Tis21 (Btg2/PC3), a gene regulating proliferation and differentiation of adult SVZ stem and progenitor cells. In Tis21-null SVZ and cultured neurospheres, we observed a strong decrease in the expression of BMP4 and its effectors Smad1/8, while the Notch anti-neural mediators Hes1/5 and the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) inhibitors Id1-3 increased. Consistently, expression of the proneural bHLH gene NeuroD1 decreased. Moreover, cyclins D1/2, A2, and E were strongly up-regulated. Thus, in the SVZ Tis21 activates the BMP pathway and inhibits the Notch pathway and the cell cycle. Correspondingly, the Tis21-null SVZ stem cells greatly increased; nonetheless, the proliferating neuroblasts diminished, whereas the post-mitotic neuroblasts paradoxically accumulated in SVZ, failing to migrate along the rostral migratory stream to the olfactory bulb. The ability, however, of neuroblasts to migrate from SVZ explants was not affected, suggesting that Tis21-null neuroblasts do not migrate to the olfactory bulb because of a defect in terminal differentiation. Notably, BMP4 addition or Id3 silencing rescued the defective differentiation observed in Tis21-null neurospheres, indicating that they mediate the Tis21 pro-differentiative action. The reduced number of granule neurons in the Tis21-null olfactory bulb led to a defect in olfactory detection threshold, without effect on olfactory memory, also suggesting that within olfactory circuits new granule neurons play a primary role in odor sensitivity rather than in memory.

GLCE regulates PC12 cell neuritogenesis induced by nerve growth factor through activating SMAD/ID3 signalling

Depletion of glucuronic acid epimerase causes arrested PC12 cell growth and promotes the neuritogenesis and differentiation induced by nerve growth factor through activating SMAD/ID3 signalling. This action is independent of its enzymatic activity.

Dextran induces differentiation of circulating endothelial progenitor cells

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) have been demonstrated to be effective for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, the differentiation process from circulation to adhesion has not been clarified because circulating EPCs rarely attached to dishes in EPC cultures previously. Here we investigated whether immature circulating EPCs differentiate into mature adhesive EPCs in response to dextran. When floating‐circulating EPCs derived from ex vivo expanded human cord blood were cultured with 5% and 10% dextran, they attached to fibronectin‐coated dishes and grew exponentially. The bioactivities of adhesion, proliferation, migration, tube formation, and differentiated type of EPC colony formation increased in EPCs exposed to dextran. The surface protein expression rate of the endothelial markers vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐R1/2, VE‐cadherin, Tie2, ICAM1, VCAM1, and integrin αv/β3 increased in EPCs exposed to dextran. The mRNA levels of VEGF‐R1/2, VE‐cadherin, Tie2, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, MMP9, and VEGF increased in EPCs treated with dextran. Those of endothelium‐related transcription factors ID1/2, FOXM1, HEY1, SMAD1, FOSL1, NFkB1, NRF2, HIF1A, EPAS1 increased in dextran‐treated EPCs; however, those of hematopoietic‐ and antiangiogenic‐related transcription factors TAL1, RUNX1, c‐MYB, GATA1/2, ERG, FOXH1, HHEX, SMAD2/3 decreased in dextran‐exposed EPCs. Inhibitor analysis showed that PI3K/Akt, ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 signal transduction pathways are involved in the differentiation in response to dextran. In conclusion, dextran induces differentiation of circulating EPCs in terms of adhesion, migration, proliferation, and vasculogenesis. The differentiation mechanism in response to dextran is regulated by multiple signal transductions including PI3K/Akt, ERK1/2, JNK, and p38. These findings indicate that dextran is an effective treatment for EPCs in regenerative medicines.

The bHLH factors extramacrochaetae and daughterless control cell cycle in Drosophila imaginal discs through the transcriptional regulation of the Cdc25 phosphatase string

One of the major issues in developmental biology is about having a better understanding of the mechanisms that regulate organ growth. Identifying these mechanisms is essential to understand the development processes that occur both in physiological and pathological conditions, such as cancer. The E protein family of basic helix-loop helix (bHLH) transcription factors, and their inhibitors the Id proteins, regulate cell proliferation in metazoans. This notion is further supported because the activity of these factors is frequently deregulated in cancerous cells. The E protein orthologue Daughterless (Da) and the Id orthologue Extramacrochaetae (Emc) are the only members of these classes of bHLH proteins in Drosophila. Although these factors are involved in controlling proliferation, the mechanism underlying this regulatory activity is poorly understood. Through a genetic analysis, we show that during the development of epithelial cells in the imaginal discs, the G2/M transition, and hence cell proliferation, is controlled by Emc via Da. In eukaryotic cells, the main activator of this transition is the Cdc25 phosphatase, string. Our genetic analyses reveal that the ectopic expression of string in cells with reduced levels of Emc or high levels of Da is sufficient to rescue the proliferative defects seen in these mutant cells. Moreover, we present evidence demonstrating a role of Da as a transcriptional repressor of string. Taken together, these findings define a mechanism through which Emc controls cell proliferation by regulating the activity of Da, which transcriptionally represses string.

Precise control of cell proliferation is critical for normal development and tissue homeostasis. Members of the inhibitor of differentiation (Id) family of helix-loop-helix (HLH) proteins are key regulators that coordinate the balance between cell division and differentiation. These proteins exert this function in part by combining with ubiquitously expressed bHLH transcription factors (E proteins), preventing these transcription factors from forming functional hetero- or homodimeric DNA binding complexes. Deregulation of the activity of Id proteins frequently leads to tumour formation. The Daughterless (Da) and Extramacrochaetae (Emc) proteins are the only members of the E and Id families in Drosophila, yet their role in the control of cell proliferation has not been determined. In this study, we show that the elimination of emc or the ectopic expression of da arrests cells in the G2 phase of the cell cycle. Moreover, we demonstrate that emc controls cell proliferation via Da, which acts as a transcriptional repressor of the Cdc25 phosphatase string. These results provide an important insight into the mechanisms through which Id and E protein interactions control cell cycle progression and therefore how the disruption of the function of Id proteins can induce oncogenic transformation.

COX-2 overexpression increases malignant potential of human glioma cells through Id1

Increased COX-2 expression directly correlates with glioma grade and is associated with shorter survival in glioblastoma (GBM) patients. COX-2 is also regulated by epidermal growth factor receptor signaling which is important in the pathogenesis of GBMs. However, COX-2 expression has not been previously shown to directly alter malignancy of GBMs. Id1 is a member of the helix-loop-helix (HLH) family of transcriptional repressors that act as dominant-negative inhibitors of basic-HLH factors. This factor has been shown to be regulated by COX-2 in breast carcinoma cells and recent studies suggest that Id1 may also be involved in the genesis/progression of gliomas. We now show that COX-2 increases the aggressiveness of GBM cells. GBM cells with COX-2 overexpression show increased growth of colonies in soft agar. Tumorigenesis in vivo is also increased in both subcutaneous flank and orthotopic intracranial tumor models. COX-2 overexpression induces Id1 expression in two GBM cell lines suggesting a role for Id1 in glioma transformation/tumorigenesis. Furthermore, we find direct evidence of a role for Id1 with significant suppression of in vitro transformation and in vivo tumorigenesis in COX-2-overexpressing GBM cells where Id1 has been knocked down. In fact, Id1 is even more efficient at enhancing transformation/tumorigenesis of GBM cells than COX-2. Finally, GBM cells with COX-2 or Id1 overexpression show greater migration/invasive potential and tumors that arise from these cells also display increased microvessel density, results in line with the increased malignant potential seen in these cells. Thus, COX-2 enhances the malignancy of GBM cells through induction of Id1.

Inhibitor of DNA binding 1 as a secreted angiogenic transcription factor in rheumatoid arthritis

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by enhanced blood vessel development in joint synovium. This involves the recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), allowing for de novo vessel formation and pro-inflammatory cell infiltration. Inhibitor of DNA Binding 1 (Id1) is a transcription factor characteristic of EPCs that influences cell maturation.

Method

Enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to examine Id1 levels in synovial fluid (SF) and endothelial cells (ECs), respectively. Immunohistology was used to determine the expression of Id1 in synovial tissue (ST). Human dermal microvascular EC (HMVEC) migration and tube forming assays were used to determine if recombinant human Id1 (rhuId1) and/or RA SF immunodepleted Id1 showed angiogenic activity. We also utilized the RA ST severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mouse chimera to examine if Id1 recruits EPCs to RA synovium.

Results

ST samples immunostained for Id1 showed heightened expression in RA compared to osteoarthritis (OA) and normal (NL) ST. By immunofluorescence staining, we found significantly more Id1 in RA compared to OA and NL vasculature, showing that Id1 expressing cells, and therefore EPCs, are most active in vascular remodeling in the RA synovium. We also detected significantly more Id1 in RA compared to OA and other arthritis SFs by ELISA, which correlates highly with Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 16 (CXCL16) levels. In vitro chemotaxis assays showed that Id1 is highly chemotactic for HMVECs and can be attenuated by inhibition of Nuclear Factor κB and phosphoinositide 3-kinase. Using in vitro Matrigel assays, we found that HMVECs form tubes in response to rhuId1 and that Id1 immunodepleted from RA SF profoundly decreases tube formation in Matrigel in vitro. PCR showed that Id1 mRNA could be up-regulated in EPCs compared to HMVECs in response to CXCL16. Finally, using the K/BxN serum induced arthritis model, we found that EC CXCR6 correlated with Id1 expression by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

We conclude that Id1 correlates highly with CXCL16 expression, EPC recruitment, and blood vessel formation in the RA joint, and that Id1 is potently angiogenic and can be up-regulated in EPCs by CXCL16.

Macrophage/epithelium cross-talk regulates cell cycle progression and migration in pancreatic progenitors

Macrophages populate the mesenchymal compartment of all organs during embryogenesis and have been shown to support tissue organogenesis and regeneration by regulating remodeling of the extracellular microenvironment. Whether this mesenchymal component can also dictate select developmental decisions in epithelia is unknown. Here, using the embryonic pancreatic epithelium as model system, we show that macrophages drive the epithelium to execute two developmentally important choices, i.e. the exit from cell cycle and the acquisition of a migratory phenotype. We demonstrate that these developmental decisions are effectively imparted by macrophages activated toward an M2 fetal-like functional state, and involve modulation of the adhesion receptor NCAM and an uncommon "paired-less" isoform of the transcription factor PAX6 in the epithelium. Over-expression of this PAX6 variant in pancreatic epithelia controls both cell motility and cell cycle progression in a gene-dosage dependent fashion. Importantly, induction of these phenotypes in embryonic pancreatic transplants by M2 macrophages in vivo is associated with an increased frequency of endocrine-committed cells emerging from ductal progenitor pools. These results identify M2 macrophages as key effectors capable of coordinating epithelial cell cycle withdrawal and cell migration, two events critical to pancreatic progenitors' delamination and progression toward their differentiated fates.

Id proteins regulate capillary repair and perivascular cell proliferation following ischemia-reperfusion injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) results in microvascular damage that if not normally repaired, may lead to fibrosis. The Id1 and 3 proteins have a critical role in promoting angiogenesis during development, tumor growth and wound repair by functioning as dominant negative regulators of bHLH transcription factors. The goal of this study was to determine if Id proteins regulate microvascular repair and remodeling and if increased Id1 expression results in decreased capillary loss following AKI. The effect of changes in Id expression in vivo was examined using Id1−/−, Id3RFP/+ (Id1/Id3 KO) and Tek (Tie2)-rtTA, TRE-lacz/TRE Id1 (TRE Id1) mice with doxycycline inducible endothelial Id1 and β-galactosidase expression. Id1 and 3 were co-localized in endothelial cells in normal adult kidneys and protein levels were increased at day 3 following ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and contralateral nephrectomy. Id1/Id3 KO mice had decreased baseline capillary density and pericyte coverage and increased tubular damage following IRI but decreased interstitial cell proliferation and fibrosis compared with WT littermates. No compensatory increase in kidney size occurred in KO mice resulting in increased creatinine compared with WT and TRE Id1 mice. TRE Id1 mice had no capillary rarefaction within 1 week following IRI in comparison with WT littermates. TRE Id1 mice had increased proliferation of PDGFRβ positive interstitial cells and medullary collagen deposition and developed capillary rarefaction and albuminuria at later time points. These differences were associated with increased Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1) and decreased Ang2 expression in TRE Id1 mice. Examination of gene expression in microvascular cells isolated from WT, Id1/Id3 KO and TRE Id1 mice showed increased Ang1 and αSMA in Id1 overexpressing cells and decreased pericyte markers in cells from KO mice. These results suggest that increased Id levels following AKI result in microvascular remodeling associated with increased fibrosis.

The ID proteins: master regulators of cancer stem cells and tumour aggressiveness

Inhibitor of DNA binding (ID) proteins are transcriptional regulators that control the timing of cell fate determination and differentiation in stem and progenitor cells during normal development and adult life. ID genes are frequently deregulated in many types of human neoplasms, and they endow cancer cells with biological features that are hijacked from normal stem cells. The ability of ID proteins to function as central 'hubs' for the coordination of multiple cancer hallmarks has established these transcriptional regulators as therapeutic targets and biomarkers in specific types of human tumours.