201
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Ribosomal mutations cause p53-mediated dark skin and pleiotropic effects. Nat Genet 2008; 40:963-70. [PMID: 18641651 DOI: 10.1038/ng.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2008] [Accepted: 05/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in genes encoding ribosomal proteins cause the Minute phenotype in Drosophila and mice, and Diamond-Blackfan syndrome in humans. Here we report two mouse dark skin (Dsk) loci caused by mutations in Rps19 (ribosomal protein S19) and Rps20 (ribosomal protein S20). We identify a common pathophysiologic program in which p53 stabilization stimulates Kit ligand expression, and, consequently, epidermal melanocytosis via a paracrine mechanism. Accumulation of p53 also causes reduced body size and erythrocyte count. These results provide a mechanistic explanation for the diverse collection of phenotypes that accompany reduced dosage of genes encoding ribosomal proteins, and have implications for understanding normal human variation and human disease.
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202
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Horsch M, Schädler S, Gailus-Durner V, Fuchs H, Meyer H, de Angelis MH, Beckers J. Systematic gene expression profiling of mouse model series reveals coexpressed genes. Proteomics 2008; 8:1248-56. [PMID: 18338826 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200700725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A major aim of the Human Brain Proteome Project (HBPP) is a better understanding of the molecular etiology and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Transgenic and loss-of-function mouse mutant lines (MMLs) serve as experimental models. Transcriptome and proteome regulate each other in a complex and controlled way, and their comparative analysis is an essential aspect. As a fundamental study, we have assessed transcript profiles using a microarray containing 21 000 cDNA probes in a series of disease models within the German Mouse Clinic (GMC). Seventeen distinct organs of one adult stage were systematically collected for each submitted MML. Samples for gene expression profiling are individually selected based on conspicuous phenotypes in at least one of 14 GMC phenotype screens or on previous knowledge of the mutant phenotype. By microarray experiments expression patterns of 90 organs from 46 MMLs were analysed, identifying up to 232 differentially expressed genes in 45 organs. Here we present an overview of the results of all MMLs analysed and demonstrate the efficiency of systematic genome-wide expression profiling for the detection of molecular phenotypes in organs of a mammalian model organism. We identify the recurring regulation of particular genes and groups of coexpressed genes in apparently unrelated MMLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Horsch
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Institute of Experimental Genetics, Neuherberg, Germany
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203
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Lisse TS, Thiele F, Fuchs H, Hans W, Przemeck GKH, Abe K, Rathkolb B, Quintanilla-Martinez L, Hoelzlwimmer G, Helfrich M, Wolf E, Ralston SH, de Angelis MH. ER stress-mediated apoptosis in a new mouse model of osteogenesis imperfecta. PLoS Genet 2008; 4:e7. [PMID: 18248096 PMCID: PMC2222924 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.0040007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/30/2007] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteogenesis imperfecta is an inherited disorder characterized by increased bone fragility, fractures, and osteoporosis, and most cases are caused by mutations affecting the type I collagen genes. Here, we describe a new mouse model for Osteogenesis imperfecta termed Aga2 (abnormal gait 2) that was isolated from the Munich N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis program and exhibited phenotypic variability, including reduced bone mass, multiple fractures, and early lethality. The causal gene was mapped to Chromosome 11 by linkage analysis, and a C-terminal frameshift mutation was identified in the Col1a1 (procollagen type I, alpha 1) gene as the cause of the disorder. Aga2 heterozygous animals had markedly increased bone turnover and a disrupted native collagen network. Further studies showed that abnormal proα1(I) chains accumulated intracellularly in Aga2/+ dermal fibroblasts and were poorly secreted extracellularly. This was associated with the induction of an endoplasmic reticulum stress-specific unfolded protein response involving upregulation of BiP, Hsp47, and Gadd153 with caspases-12 and −3 activation and apoptosis of osteoblasts both in vitro and in vivo. These studies resulted in the identification of a new model for Osteogenesis imperfecta, and identified a role for intracellular modulation of the endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated unfolded protein response machinery toward osteoblast apoptosis during the pathogenesis of disease. Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heterogeneous collection of connective tissue disorders typically caused by mutations in the COL1A1/2 genes that encode the chains of type I collagen, the principle structural protein of bone. Phenotypic expression in OI depends on the nature of the mutation, causing a clinical heterogeneity ranging from a mild risk of fractures to perinatal lethality. Here, we describe a new OI mouse model with a dominant mutation in the terminal C-propeptide domain of Col1a1 generated using the N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis strategy. Heterozygous animals developed severe-to-lethal phenotypes that were associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress, and caspases-12 and −3 activation within calvarial osteoblasts. We provide evidence for endoplasmic reticulum stress–associated apoptosis as a key component in the pathogenesis of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Lisse
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Frank Thiele
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Hans
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Gerhard K. H Przemeck
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Koichiro Abe
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Birgit Rathkolb
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Leticia Quintanilla-Martinez
- Institute of Pathology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Hoelzlwimmer
- Institute of Pathology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Miep Helfrich
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Stuart H Ralston
- Molecular Medicine Centre, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Hrabé de Angelis
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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204
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Loughran SJ, Kruse EA, Hacking DF, de Graaf CA, Hyland CD, Willson TA, Henley KJ, Ellis S, Voss AK, Metcalf D, Hilton DJ, Alexander WS, Kile BT. The transcription factor Erg is essential for definitive hematopoiesis and the function of adult hematopoietic stem cells. Nat Immunol 2008; 9:810-9. [PMID: 18500345 DOI: 10.1038/ni.1617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2007] [Accepted: 04/23/2008] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Ets-related gene (ERG), which encodes a member of the Ets family of transcription factors, is a potent oncogene. Chromosomal rearrangements involving ERG are found in acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Ewing's sarcoma and more than half of all prostate cancers; however, the normal physiological function of Erg is unknown. We did a sensitized genetic screen of the mouse for regulators of hematopoietic stem cell function and report here a germline mutation of Erg. We show that Erg is required for definitive hematopoiesis, adult hematopoietic stem cell function and the maintenance of normal peripheral blood platelet numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Loughran
- Division of Molecular Medicine, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
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205
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Probst FJ, Cooper ML, Cheung SW, Justice MJ. Genotype, phenotype, and karyotype correlation in the XO mouse model of Turner Syndrome. J Hered 2008; 99:512-7. [PMID: 18499648 DOI: 10.1093/jhered/esn027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The murine model for Turner Syndrome is the XO mouse. Unlike their human counterparts, XO mice are typically fertile, and their lack of a second sex chromosome can be transmitted from one generation to the next as an X-linked dominant trait with male lethality. The introduction of an X-linked coat-color marker (tabby) has greatly facilitated the maintenance of this useful mouse strain. XO mice can be produced in large numbers, generation after generation, and rapidly identified on the basis of their sex and coat color. Although this breeding scheme appears to be effective at the phenotype level, its utility has never been conclusively proved at the molecular or cytogenetic levels. Here, we clone and sequence the tabby deletion break point and present a multiplex polymerase chain reaction-based assay for the tabby mutation. By combining the results of this assay with whole-chromosome painting data, we demonstrate that genotype, phenotype, and karyotype all show perfect correlation in the publicly available XO breeding stock. This work lays the foundation for the use of this strain to study Turner Syndrome in particular and the X chromosome in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank J Probst
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Room R804, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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206
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Masuya H, Yoshikawa S, Heida N, Toyoda T, Wakana S, Shiroishi T. Phenosite: a web database integrating the mouse phenotyping platform and the experimental procedures in mice. J Bioinform Comput Biol 2008; 5:1173-91. [PMID: 18172924 DOI: 10.1142/s0219720007003168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2007] [Revised: 07/30/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recently, a number of collaborative large-scale mouse mutagenesis programs have been launched. These programs aim for a better understanding of the roles of all individual coding genes and the biological systems in which these genes participate. In international efforts to share phenotypic data among facilities/institutes, it is desirable to integrate information obtained from different phenotypic platforms reliably. Since the definitions of specific phenotypes often depend on a tacit understanding of concepts that tends to vary among different facilities, it is necessary to define phenotypes based on the explicit evidence of assay results. We have developed a website termed PhenoSITE (Phenome Semantics Information with Terminology of Experiments: http://www.gsc.riken.jp/Mouse/), in which we are trying to integrate phenotype-related information using an experimental-evidence-based approach. The site's features include (1) a baseline database for our phenotyping platform; (2) an ontology associating international phenotypic definitions with experimental terminologies used in our phenotyping platform; (3) a database for standardized operation procedures of the phenotyping platform; and (4) a database for mouse mutants using data produced from the large-scale mutagenesis program at RIKEN GSC. We have developed two types of integrated viewers to enhance the accessibility to mutant resource information. One viewer depicts a matrix view of the ontology-based classification and chromosomal location of each gene; the other depicts ontology-mediated integration of experimental protocols, baseline data, and mutant information. These approaches rely entirely upon experiment-based evidence, ensuring the reliability of the integrated data from different phenotyping platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Masuya
- Mouse Functional Genomics Research Group, RIKEN GSC, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
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207
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Abstract
Body mass and composition reflect the combined effects of three processes: energy intake, energy partitioning (storage), and energy expenditure. Energy is released from food as it is combusted to carbon dioxide and water, and is expended as heat and work within a cell. The energy stores, mainly in adipose tissue, represent the net balance between intake and expenditure. The methods outlined in this unit evaluate these three processes by measuring food intake and lipid absorption, body fat composition, and energy expenditure. Evaluation of food intake and fat mass is a useful first-line phenotyping test indicating altered energy homeostasis. Evaluation of energy expenditure in this unit addresses obligatory basal energy expenditure (for performance of cellular and organ functions), as measured by indirect calorimetry. The combined results of these tests provide indications of the metabolic defects in a mouse model and help to identify molecular targets that cause these abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen A Argmann
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France
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208
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From ENU mutagenesis to population genetics. Mamm Genome 2008; 19:221-5. [PMID: 18365275 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-008-9104-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2008] [Accepted: 02/17/2008] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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209
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Zhang Q, Cho KH, Cho JW, Cha DS, Park HJ, Yoon S, Zhang S, Song CW. Studies on the Small Body Size Mouse Developed by Mutagen N-Ethyl- N-nitrosourea. Toxicol Res 2008; 24:69-78. [PMID: 32038779 PMCID: PMC7006338 DOI: 10.5487/tr.2008.24.1.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutant mouse which show dwarfism has been developed by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis using BALB/c mice. The mutant mouse was inherited as autosomal recessive trait and named Small Body Size (SBS) mouse. The phenotype of SBS mouse was not apparent at birth, but it was possible to distinguish mutant phenotype from normal mice 1 week after birth. In this study, we examined body weight changes and bone mineral density (BMD), and we also carried out genetic linkage analysis to map the causative gene(s) of SBS mouse. Body weight changes were observed from birth to 14 weeks of age in both affected (n = 30) and normal mice (n = 24). BMD was examined in each five SBS and normal mice between 3 and 6 weeks of age, respectively. For the linkage analysis, we produced backcross progeny [(SBS × C57BL/6J) F1 × SBS] N2 mice (n = 142), and seventy-four microsatellite markers were used for primary linkage analysis. Body weight of affected mice was consistently lower than that of the normal mice, and was 43.7% less than that of normal mice at 3 weeks of age (P < 0.001). As compared with normal mice at 3 and 6 weeks of age, BMD of the SBS mice was significantly low. The results showed 15.5% and 14.1% lower in total body BMD, 15.3% and 8.7% lower in forearm BMD, and 29.7% and 20.1% lower in femur BMD, respectively. The causative gene was mapped on chromosome 10. The map order and the distance between markers were D10Mit248 - 2.1 cM - D10Mit51 - 4.2 cM - sbs - 0.7 cM - D10Mit283 - 1.4 cM - D10Mit106 - 11.2 cM - D10Mit170.
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Affiliation(s)
- QianKun Zhang
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea.,210Department of Veterinary Medicine, YanBian University, Longjing, China
| | - Kyu-Hyuk Cho
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Jae-Woo Cho
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Dal-Sun Cha
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Han-Jin Park
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Seokjoo Yoon
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - ShouFa Zhang
- 210Department of Veterinary Medicine, YanBian University, Longjing, China
| | - Chang-Woo Song
- 110Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
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210
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Cho KH, Cho JW, Song CW. Studies on N-Ethyl- N-nitrosourea Mutagenesis in BALB/c Mice. Toxicol Res 2008; 24:59-68. [PMID: 32038778 PMCID: PMC7006260 DOI: 10.5487/tr.2008.24.1.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
N-ethyl-N-nitrosoures (ENU) is effective in inducing hypermorphic mutation as well as hypomorphic and antimorphic mutations. Therefore, this mutagen is used to the production of mutant in the mice. In order to perform an effective ENU mutagenesis using BALB/cAnN mice, determination of optimal dosage and dosage regimen of ENU is necessary. And this study tried to develop a suitable screening method and searched for novel and various mutants as model animals in phenotypedriven ENU mutagenesis. We have carried out dosage regimen for mutagenizing dose of 200 mg/kg ENU in the BALB/c mice. Total screened mice were 30,133. As the results of Esaki and Cho’s Phenotype Screening, we got 2,516 phenotypic and behavior abnormalities in G1, G2 and G3 mice. One hundred thirty five G1 phenodeviants were tested for inheritance and 16 dominant mutants were discovered. Forty two recessive mutants were also found in tested 201 micropedigrees. Early-onset mutant mice included the dysmorphology of face, eye, tail, limb, skin, and foot and abnormal behavior like circling, swimming, head tossing, stiff-walking, high cholesterol level, and tremor etc. In this study we could effectively screen G3 recessive mutants. The frequent and concise early-onset screening before weaning will be available for ENU mutagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyu-Hyuk Cho
- Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Jae-Woo Cho
- Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
| | - Chang-Woo Song
- Department of Research & Development, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, P.O BOX 123, Yuseong, Daejeon, 305-343 Korea
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211
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Quiet as a mouse: dissecting the molecular and genetic basis of hearing. Nat Rev Genet 2008; 9:277-90. [PMID: 18283275 DOI: 10.1038/nrg2309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Mouse genetics has made crucial contributions to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of hearing. With the help of a plethora of mouse mutants, many of the key genes that are involved in the development and functioning of the auditory system have been elucidated. Mouse mutants continue to shed light on the genetic and physiological bases of human hearing impairment, including both early- and late-onset deafness. A combination of genetic and physiological studies of mouse mutant lines, allied to investigations into the protein networks of the stereocilia bundle in the inner ear, are identifying key complexes that are crucial for auditory function and for providing profound insights into the underlying causes of hearing loss.
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212
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss mouse models of diabetic nephropathy and their use in discovering genetic risk factors predisposing to diabetic nephropathy. RECENT FINDINGS Despite occurring in only 10-40% of diabetic patients, diabetic nephropathy is the largest single cause of end stage renal disease in the USA. Accumulated evidence points to critical genetic factors that predispose a subset of diabetic patients to nephropathy. Defining the genes that confer risk for nephropathy in human populations has proven challenging. The use of robust genetic reagents available in the laboratory mouse provides a complementary approach to defining genes that predispose to diabetic nephropathy in mice and humans. These findings support the existence of dominant mutations predisposing to diabetic nephropathy in mice as well as substantiating an important role for eNOS in forestalling the development of diabetic nephropathy. SUMMARY When studied for a sufficient duration of diabetic hyperglycemia, some strains of mice exhibit changes similar to those of human diabetic nephropathy. The unique genetic reagents in mice should help accelerate the identification of genes predisposing to diabetic nephropathy.
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213
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Aigner B, Rathkolb B, Herbach N, Hrabé de Angelis M, Wanke R, Wolf E. Diabetes models by screen for hyperglycemia in phenotype-driven ENU mouse mutagenesis projects. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2008; 294:E232-40. [PMID: 18056790 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00592.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
More than 150 million people suffer from diabetes mellitus worldwide, and this number is expected to rise substantially within the next decades. Despite its high prevalence, the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus is not completely understood. Therefore, appropriate experimental models are essential tools to gain more insight into the genetics and pathogenesis of the disease. Here, we describe the current efforts to establish novel diabetes models derived from unbiased, phenotype-driven, large-scale N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mouse mutagenesis projects started a decade ago using hyperglycemia as a high-throughput screen parameter. Mouse lines were established according to their hyperglycemia phenotype over several generations, thereby revealing a mutation as cause for the aberrant phenotype. Chromosomal assignment of the causative mutation and subsequent candidate gene analysis led to the detection of the mutations that resulted in novel alleles of genes already known to be involved in glucose homeostasis, like glucokinase, insulin 2, and insulin receptor. Additional ENU-induced hyperglycemia lines are under genetic analysis. Improvements in screen for diabetic animals are implemented to detect more subtle phenotypes. Moreover, diet challenge assays are being employed to uncover interactions between genetic and environmental factors in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus. The new mouse mutants recovered in phenotype-driven ENU mouse mutagenesis projects complement the available models generated by targeted mutagenesis of candidate genes, all together providing the large resource of models required for a systematic dissection of the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Hackerstrasse 27, Oberschleissheim, Germany.
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214
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Pawlak CR, Sanchis-Segura C, Soewarto D, Wagner S, Hrabé de Angelis M, Spanagel R. A phenotype-driven ENU mutagenesis screen for the identification of dominant mutations involved in alcohol consumption. Mamm Genome 2008; 19:77-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s00335-007-9087-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2007] [Accepted: 11/23/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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215
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Abstract
The innate arm of our immune system is the first line of defence against infections. In addition, it is believed to drive adaptive immune responses, which help fight pathogens and provide long-term memory. As such, the innate immune system is instrumental for protection against pathogens that would otherwise destroy their host. Although our understanding of the innate immune components involved in pathogen sensing and fighting is improving, it is still limited. This is particularly exemplified by increased documentation of innate immune deficiencies in humans that often result in high and recurrent susceptibility to infections or even death, without the genetic cause being evident. To provide further insight into the mechanisms by which pathogen sensing and eradication occur, several strategies can be used. The current review focuses on the forward genetic approaches that have been used to dissect innate immunity in the fruit fly and the mouse. For both animal models, forward genetics has been instrumental in the deciphering of innate immunity and has greatly improved our understanding of how we respond to invading pathogens.
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216
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Jakob T, Köllisch GV, Howaldt M, Bewersdorff M, Rathkolb B, Müller ML, Sandholzer N, Nitschke L, Schiemann M, Mempel M, Ollert M, Neubauer A, Soewarto DA, Kremmer E, Ring J, Behrendt H, Flaswinkel H. Novel mouse mutants with primary cellular immunodeficiencies generated by genome-wide mutagenesis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2008; 121:179-184.e7. [PMID: 17767948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2007.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2006] [Revised: 06/27/2007] [Accepted: 07/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary cellular immunodeficiencies are a group of genetic disorders in which 1 or more components of the cellular immune system are lacking or dysfunctional. OBJECTIVE We sought to identify novel mouse mutants that display primary cellular immunodeficiencies. METHODS Genome-wide N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis was performed in mice, followed by a phenotype screen of immunologic blood parameters. RESULTS We identified novel mouse mutants with isolated B-cell deficiency, combined block in early B- and T-cell development, combined T-cell and natural killer cell reduction, and 3 different forms of T-cell deficiencies. One of the mutants, designated DeltaT3, displayed a combined phenotype of increased IgE, absence of peripheral T cells, and block in late thymocyte differentiation. In addition, DeltaT3 mice were unable to mount specific humoral immune responses. Chromosomal mapping and sequencing of candidate genes revealed a novel point mutation in the kinase domain of the T-cell receptor zeta chain-associated protein kinase (Zap70). In contrast to Zap70-deficient mice, DeltaT3 mutants displayed normal Zap70 mRNA and residual Zap70 protein levels. Complementation studies with Zap70-deficient mice confirmed that the point mutation found in Zap70 was causative for the DeltaT3 phenotype, including increased IgE plasma levels, a phenotype that has not been associated with altered Zap70 function in the past. CONCLUSION Random genome-wide mutagenesis combined with a phenotype screen can be used to generate novel mouse mutants with primary cellular immunodeficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thilo Jakob
- Allergy Research Group, Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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217
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Breyer MD, Tchekneva E, Qi Z, Takahashi T, Fogo AB, Harris RC. Examining diabetic nephropathy through the lens of mouse genetics. Curr Diab Rep 2007; 7:459-66. [PMID: 18255011 DOI: 10.1007/s11892-007-0078-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Although diabetic nephropathy occurs in only a minority of patients with diabetes, it is the major cause of end-stage renal disease in the United States. Hyperglycemia and hypertension are important factors predisposing patients to diabetic nephropathy, but accumulating evidence points to critical genetic factors predisposing only a subset of patients with diabetes to nephropathy. It has been challenging to define the genes conferring risk for nephropathy in human populations. Comparative genomics using the robust genetic reagents available in laboratory mice should provide a complementary approach to defining genes that may predispose to diabetic nephropathy in mice and humans. This article reviews new studies to identify genetic risk factors for diabetic nephropathy and the unique approaches that may be used to elucidate the genetic pathogenesis of this disorder in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Breyer
- Biotherapeutics Discovery Research, Lilly Research Labs, Eli Lilly and Company, 355 E. Merrill Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA.
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218
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Sun LV, Jin K, Liu Y, Yang W, Xie X, Ye L, Wang L, Zhu L, Ding S, Su Y, Zhou J, Han M, Zhuang Y, Xu T, Wu X, Gu N, Zhong Y. PBmice: an integrated database system of piggyBac (PB) insertional mutations and their characterizations in mice. Nucleic Acids Res 2007; 36:D729-34. [PMID: 17932058 PMCID: PMC2238892 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkm790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA transposon piggyBac (PB) is a newly established mutagen for large-scale mutagenesis in mice. We have designed and implemented an integrated database system called PBmice (PB Mutagenesis Information CEnter) for storing, retrieving and displaying the information derived from PB insertions (INSERTs) in the mouse genome. This system is centered on INSERTs with information including their genomic locations and flanking genomic sequences, the expression levels of the hit genes, and the expression patterns of the trapped genes if a trapping vector was used. It also archives mouse phenotyping data linked to INSERTs, and allows users to conduct quick and advanced searches for genotypic and phenotypic information relevant to a particular or a set of INSERT(s). Sequence-based information can be cross-referenced with other genomic databases such as Ensembl, BLAST and GBrowse tools used in PBmice offer enhanced search and display for additional information relevant to INSERTs. The total number and genomic distribution of PB INSERTs, as well as the availability of each PB insertional LINE can also be viewed with user-friendly interfaces. PBmice is freely available at http://www.idmshanghai.cn/PBmice or http://www.scbit.org/PBmice/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling V Sun
- Institute of Developmental Biology and Molecular Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, Shanghai Center for Bioinformation Technology, Shanghai 200235, China.
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219
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Lan CC, Laurenson S, Copp BR, Cattin PM, Love DR. Whole organism approaches to chemical genomics: the promising role of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Expert Opin Drug Discov 2007; 2:1389-401. [PMID: 23484534 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2.10.1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Chemical genomics is a new and rapidly developing field. It refers to the use of cell-permeable small molecules, which are highly specific for their protein targets, in order to dissect biological pathways and to discover new drug leads. Small-molecule screening is usually limited to high-throughput approaches that use defined cell lines; however, whole organism screening is gaining increasing attention. This review addresses the latter concept and highlights the advances in whole organism-based screening, with an emphasis on the use of the zebrafish (Danio rerio).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan-Ching Lan
- University of Auckland, School of Biological Sciences, Private Bag 92019, Auckland Mail Centre, Auckland 1142, New Zealand +64 9 3737599 ; ext: 87228; +64 9 3737417 ;
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220
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Bielohuby M, Herbach N, Wanke R, Maser-Gluth C, Beuschlein F, Wolf E, Hoeflich A. Growth analysis of the mouse adrenal gland from weaning to adulthood: time- and gender-dependent alterations of cell size and number in the cortical compartment. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2007; 293:E139-46. [PMID: 17374700 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00705.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The adrenal gland is of critical importance for a plethora of biological processes. We performed the first systematic analysis of adrenal gland growth using unbiased stereological methods in male and female mice from weaning to adulthood (weeks 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11) at the organ, compartment, and cellular levels. Adrenal weights increased from week 3 to week 7 in male and female mice, remained at this level in females, but decreased by 25% between week 7 and week 9 in males. Female adrenal glands displayed a higher weight at any stage investigated. The volume of the zona fasciculata was consistently higher in female vs. male mice. In both genders, the number of zona fasciculata cells reached a maximum at the age of 7 wk and decreased significantly until week 9. Serum corticosterone concentrations decreased from 3 to 11 wk of age both in male and female mice. However, the estimated total amounts of corticosterone in the circulation were similar in 3- and 11-wk-old mice. Furthermore, total circulating corticosterone was higher in females than in males at an age of 5 and 11 wk. In the zona glomerulosa and in the X-zone, time- and gender-dependent growth effects were observed. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that growth and function of the adrenal glands are markedly influenced by gender and age. These factors require careful consideration in studies aiming at the functional dissection of genetic and environmental factors affecting adrenal growth and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Bielohuby
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
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221
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Tucci V, Achilli F, Blanco G, Lad HV, Wells S, Godinho S, Nolan PM. Reaching and grasping phenotypes in the mouse (Mus musculus): a characterization of inbred strains and mutant lines. Neuroscience 2007; 147:573-82. [PMID: 17574766 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2007] [Revised: 04/17/2007] [Accepted: 04/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Skilled movements, such as reaching and grasping, have classically been considered as originating in the primate lineage. For this reason, the use of rodents to investigate the genetic and molecular machinery of reaching and grasping has been limited in research. A few studies in rodents have now shown that these movements are not exclusive to primates. Here we present a new test, the Mouse Reaching and Grasping (MoRaG) performance scale, intended to help researchers in the characterization of these motor behaviors in the mouse. Within the MoRaG test battery we identified early phenotypes for the characterization of motor neurone (Tg[SOD1-G93A](dl)1Gur mice) and neurodegenerative (TgN(HD82Gln)81Dbo transgenic mice) disease models in addition to specific motor deficits associated with aging (C3H/HeH inbred strain). We conclude that the MoRaG test can be used to further investigate complex neuromuscular, neurological, neurodegenerative and behavioral disorders. Moreover, our study supports the validity of the mouse as a model for reaching and grasping studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Tucci
- MRC Mammalian Genetics Unit, Harwell, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK.
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222
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Aigner B, Rathkolb B, Mohr M, Klempt M, Hrabé de Angelis M, Wolf E. Generation of ENU-Induced Mouse Mutants with Hypocholesterolemia: Novel Tools for Dissecting Plasma Lipoprotein Homeostasis. Lipids 2007; 42:731-7. [PMID: 17554576 DOI: 10.1007/s11745-007-3075-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Accepted: 05/10/2007] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Pathologic plasma lipoprotein cholesterol levels play a key role in the development and pathogenesis of human atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Plasma cholesterol homeostasis is regulated by genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Animal models showing aberrant plasma cholesterol levels are used for the identification and analysis of novel causative genes. Here, we searched for inherited hypocholesterolemia phenotypes in randomly mutant mice which may contribute to the detection of disease protective alleles. In the Munich ENU mouse mutagenesis project, clinical chemistry blood analysis was carried out on more than 15,500 G1 offspring and 230 G3 pedigrees of chemically mutagenized inbred C3H mice to detect dominant and recessive mutations leading to a decreased plasma total cholesterol level. We identified 66 animals consistently showing hypocholesterolemia. Transmission of the altered phenotype to the subsequent generations led to the successful establishment of 14 independent hypocholesterolemic lines. Line-specific differences were detected by clinical chemistry analysis of plasma HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Thus, we successfully established a novel panel of ENU-derived mutant mouse lines for their use in the identification of alleles selectively influencing the plasma cholesterol homeostasis. Such findings may be subsequently used for humans and other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Hackerstr. 27, 85764, Oberschleissheim, Germany.
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223
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Breyer MD, Tchekneva E, Qi Z, Takahashi T, Fogo AB, Zhao HJ, Harris RC. Genetics of diabetic nephropathy: lessons from mice. Semin Nephrol 2007; 27:237-47. [PMID: 17418691 DOI: 10.1016/j.semnephrol.2007.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Although diabetic nephropathy occurs only in a minority of diabetic patients (approximately 30%), it is the major single cause of end-stage renal disease in the United States. Hyperglycemia and hypertension are important factors predisposing patients to nephropathy, however, accumulating evidence points to critical genetic factors that predispose only a subset of diabetic patients to nephropathy. Defining the genes responsible for nephropathy risk in human populations has proven challenging. Comparative genomics using the robust genetic reagents available in the laboratory mouse should provide a complementary approach to defining genes that may predispose to diabetic nephropathy in mice and human beings. In this article we review studies that have started to identify genetic risk factors for diabetic nephropathy in mice and the multiple approaches that may be used to elucidate the genetic pathogenesis of this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Breyer
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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224
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Oliver PL, Bitoun E, Davies KE. Comparative genetic analysis: the utility of mouse genetic systems for studying human monogenic disease. Mamm Genome 2007; 18:412-24. [PMID: 17514509 PMCID: PMC1998876 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-007-9014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2007] [Revised: 03/19/2007] [Accepted: 03/22/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
One of the long-term goals of mutagenesis programs in the mouse has been to generate mutant lines to facilitate the functional study of every mammalian gene. With a combination of complementary genetic approaches and advances in technology, this aim is slowly becoming a reality. One of the most important features of this strategy is the ability to identify and compare a number of mutations in the same gene, an allelic series. With the advent of gene-driven screening of mutant archives, the search for a specific series of interest is now a practical option. This review focuses on the analysis of multiple mutations from chemical mutagenesis projects in a wide variety of genes and the valuable functional information that has been obtained from these studies. Although gene knockouts and transgenics will continue to be an important resource to ascertain gene function, with a significant proportion of human diseases caused by point mutations, identifying an allelic series is becoming an equally efficient route to generating clinically relevant and functionally important mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter L. Oliver
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, MRC Functional Genetics Unit, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QX UK
| | - Emmanuelle Bitoun
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, MRC Functional Genetics Unit, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QX UK
| | - Kay E. Davies
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, MRC Functional Genetics Unit, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QX UK
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225
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Nieman BJ, Bishop J, Dazai J, Bock NA, Lerch JP, Feintuch A, Chen XJ, Sled JG, Henkelman RM. MR technology for biological studies in mice. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2007; 20:291-303. [PMID: 17451169 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Mouse models are crucial for the study of genetic factors and processes that influence human disease. In addition to tools for measuring genetic expression and establishing genotype, tools to accurately and comparatively assess mouse phenotype are essential in order to characterize pathology and make comparisons with human disease. MRI provides a powerful means of evaluating various anatomical and functional changes and hence is growing in popularity as a phenotypic readout for biomedical research studies. To accommodate the large numbers of mice needed in most biological studies, mouse MRI must offer high-throughput image acquisition and efficient image analysis. This article reviews the technology of multiple-mouse MRI, a method that images multiple mice or specimens simultaneously as a means of enabling high-throughput studies. Aspects of image acquisition and computational analysis in multiple-mouse studies are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Nieman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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226
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Abstract
Despite the pre-eminence of the mouse in modelling human disease, several aspects of murine biology limit its routine use in large-scale genetic and therapeutic screening. Many researchers who are interested in an embryologically and genetically tractable disease model have now turned to zebrafish. Zebrafish biology allows ready access to all developmental stages, and the optical clarity of embryos and larvae allow real-time imaging of developing pathologies. Sophisticated mutagenesis and screening strategies on a large scale, and with an economy that is not possible in other vertebrate systems, have generated zebrafish models of a wide variety of human diseases. This Review surveys the achievements and potential of zebrafish for modelling human diseases and for drug discovery and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Lieschke
- Cancer and Haematology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, 3050, Australia.
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227
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Kallnik M, Elvert R, Ehrhardt N, Kissling D, Mahabir E, Welzl G, Faus-Kessler T, de Angelis MH, Wurst W, Schmidt J, Hölter SM. Impact of IVC housing on emotionality and fear learning in male C3HeB/FeJ and C57BL/6J mice. Mamm Genome 2007; 18:173-86. [PMID: 17431719 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-007-9002-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2006] [Accepted: 01/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Housing conditions are known to influence laboratory animal behavior. However, it is not known whether housing mice in individually ventilated cages (IVCs) to maintain optimal hygienic conditions alters behavioral baselines established in conventional housing. This issue is important with regard to comparability and reproducibility of data. Therefore, we investigated the impact of IVC housing on emotionality and fear learning in male C3HeB/FeJ (C3H) and C57BL/6J (B6J) mice housed singly either in conventional type II cages with wire bar lids (Conventional), or in IVCs of the same size, but with smooth, untextured lids (IVC classic), thus acoustically attenuated from external stimuli and with limited climbing facilities compared to Conventional. To evaluate the role of climbing, additional mice were kept in IVCs with lids having wire bars ("grid") added to the inner surface (IVC grid). Spontaneous behavior, sensorimotor behavior, and fear learning were measured. IVC housing reduced activity and enhanced anxiety-related behavior in both strains, whereas grooming latency was reduced in B6J only. IVC housing increased Acoustic Startle Response in C3H but not in B6J mice. The "grid" did not compensate for these IVC housing effects. In contrast, B6J mice in IVC grid performed best in fear potentiated startle while B6J mice in IVC classic performed the worst, suggesting that climbing facilities combined with IVC housing facilitate FPS performance in singly-housed B6J males. Our data show that IVC housing can affect behavioral performance and can modulate behavioral parameters in a general and a strain-specific manner, thus having an impact on mouse functional genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kallnik
- Institute of Developmental Genetics, GSF-National Research Center for Environment and Health, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
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228
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Parkinson N, Hardisty-Hughes RE, Tateossian H, Tsai HT, Brooker D, Morse S, Lalane Z, MacKenzie F, Fray M, Glenister P, Woodward AM, Polley S, Barbaric I, Dear N, Hough TA, Hunter AJ, Cheeseman MT, Brown SDM. Mutation at the Evi1 locus in Junbo mice causes susceptibility to otitis media. PLoS Genet 2007; 2:e149. [PMID: 17029558 PMCID: PMC1592239 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.0020149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2006] [Accepted: 08/23/2006] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Otitis media (OM), inflammation of the middle ear, remains the most common cause of hearing impairment in children. It is also the most common cause of surgery in children in the developed world. There is evidence from studies of the human population and mouse models that there is a significant genetic component predisposing to OM, yet nothing is known about the underlying genetic pathways involved in humans. We identified an N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced dominant mouse mutant Junbo with hearing loss due to chronic suppurative OM and otorrhea. This develops from acute OM that arises spontaneously in the postnatal period, with the age of onset and early severity dependent on the microbiological status of the mice and their air quality. We have identified the causal mutation, a missense change in the C-terminal zinc finger region of the transcription factor Evi1. This protein is expressed in middle ear basal epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and neutrophil leukocytes at postnatal day 13 and 21 when inflammatory changes are underway. The identification and characterization of the Junbo mutant elaborates a novel role for Evi1 in mammalian disease and implicates a new pathway in genetic predisposition to OM. Otitis media (OM), inflammation of the middle ear, is the most common cause of deafness in children. Although acute episodes of OM in children are associated with middle ear infections, in a substantial portion of cases recurrent episodes of OM, or a chronic suppurative OM, will develop. There is evidence from genetic studies of human families that there is a significant genetic component contributing to the development of recurrent and chronic forms of OM. However, the genes involved have not been identified. The authors have identified and characterized mouse mutants that demonstrate chronic OM as a route to identifying genes involved with OM. This study describes one mutant, Junbo, which shares many features with human OM. Junbo develops an acute OM following birth that subsequently develops into a chronic suppurative form of OM. Junbo carries a mutation in the transcription factor gene, Evi1. Evi1 is expressed in a variety of cell types in the middle ear lining when inflammatory changes are underway. The identification of the Junbo mutation implicates a new gene involved in predisposition to OM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Parkinson
- Mammalian Gentics Unit, Medical Research Council, Harwell, United Kingdom
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229
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Schwander M, Sczaniecka A, Grillet N, Bailey JS, Avenarius M, Najmabadi H, Steffy BM, Federe GC, Lagler EA, Banan R, Hice R, Grabowski-Boase L, Keithley EM, Ryan AF, Housley GD, Wiltshire T, Smith RJH, Tarantino LM, Müller U. A forward genetics screen in mice identifies recessive deafness traits and reveals that pejvakin is essential for outer hair cell function. J Neurosci 2007; 27:2163-75. [PMID: 17329413 PMCID: PMC6673480 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4975-06.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Deafness is the most common form of sensory impairment in the human population and is frequently caused by recessive mutations. To obtain animal models for recessive forms of deafness and to identify genes that control the development and function of the auditory sense organs, we performed a forward genetics screen in mice. We identified 13 mouse lines with defects in auditory function and six lines with auditory and vestibular defects. We mapped several of the affected genetic loci and identified point mutations in four genes. Interestingly, all identified genes are expressed in mechanosensory hair cells and required for their function. One mutation maps to the pejvakin gene, which encodes a new member of the gasdermin protein family. Previous studies have described two missense mutations in the human pejvakin gene that cause nonsyndromic recessive deafness (DFNB59) by affecting the function of auditory neurons. In contrast, the pejvakin allele described here introduces a premature stop codon, causes outer hair cell defects, and leads to progressive hearing loss. We also identified a novel allele of the human pejvakin gene in an Iranian pedigree that is afflicted with progressive hearing loss. Our findings suggest that the mechanisms of pathogenesis associated with pejvakin mutations are more diverse than previously appreciated. More generally, our findings demonstrate that recessive screens in mice are powerful tools for identifying genes that control the development and function of mechanosensory hair cells and cause deafness in humans, as well as generating animal models for disease.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Chromosome Mapping
- Deafness/chemically induced
- Deafness/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Ethylnitrosourea/analogs & derivatives
- Female
- Genes, Recessive
- Genetic Testing
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer/cytology
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer/pathology
- Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer/physiology
- Humans
- Male
- Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mutagens
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Pedigree
- Point Mutation
- Psychomotor Agitation/genetics
- Sequence Alignment
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schwander
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute for Childhood and Neglected Disease, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Anna Sczaniecka
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute for Childhood and Neglected Disease, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Nicolas Grillet
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute for Childhood and Neglected Disease, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Janice S. Bailey
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Matthew Avenarius
- Department of Otolaryngology and the Interdepartmental Ph.D. Genetic Program, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Hossein Najmabadi
- Genetic Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Brian M. Steffy
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Glenn C. Federe
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Erica A. Lagler
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Raheleh Banan
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute for Childhood and Neglected Disease, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Rudy Hice
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | | | - Elisabeth M. Keithley
- Departments of Surgery and Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California 92093, and
| | - Allen F. Ryan
- Departments of Surgery and Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California 92093, and
| | - Gary D. Housley
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tim Wiltshire
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Richard J. H. Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology and the Interdepartmental Ph.D. Genetic Program, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Lisa M. Tarantino
- Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, San Diego, California 92121
| | - Ulrich Müller
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute for Childhood and Neglected Disease, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037
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230
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Nieman BJ, Flenniken AM, Adamson SL, Henkelman RM, Sled JG. Anatomical phenotyping in the brain and skull of a mutant mouse by magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Physiol Genomics 2007; 24:154-62. [PMID: 16410543 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00217.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Since genetically modified mice have become more common in biomedical research as models of human disease, a need has also grown for efficient and quantitative methods to assess mouse phenotype. One powerful means of phenotyping is characterization of anatomy in mutant vs. normal populations. Anatomical phenotyping requires visualization of structures in situ, quantification of complex shape differences between mouse populations, and detection of subtle or diffuse abnormalities during high-throughput survey work. These aims can be achieved with imaging techniques adapted from clinical radiology, such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. These imaging technologies provide an excellent nondestructive method for visualization of anatomy in live individuals or specimens. The computer-based analysis of these images then allows thorough anatomical characterizations. We present an automated method for analyzing multiple-image data sets. This method uses image registration to identify corresponding anatomy between control and mutant groups. Within- and between-group shape differences are used to map regions of significantly differing anatomy. These regions are highlighted and represented quantitatively by displacements and volume changes. This methodology is demonstrated for a partially characterized mouse mutation generated by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis that is a putative model of the human syndrome oculodentodigital dysplasia, caused by point mutations in the gene encoding connexin 43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Nieman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.
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231
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Barbaric I, Wells S, Russ A, Dear TN. Spectrum of ENU-induced mutations in phenotype-driven and gene-driven screens in the mouse. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2007; 48:124-42. [PMID: 17295309 DOI: 10.1002/em.20286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis in mice has become a standard tool for (i) increasing the pool of mutants in many areas of biology, (ii) identifying novel genes involved in physiological processes and disease, and (iii) in assisting in assigning functions to genes. ENU is assumed to cause random mutations throughout the mouse genome, but this presumption has never been analyzed. This is a crucial point, especially for large-scale mutagenesis, as a bias would reflect a constraint on identifying possible genetic targets. There is a significant body of published data now available from both phenotype-driven and gene-driven ENU mutagenesis screens in the mouse that can be used to reveal the effectiveness and limitations of an ENU mutagenesis approach. Analysis of the published data is presented in this paper. As expected for a randomly acting mutagen, ENU-induced mutations identified in phenotype-driven screens were in genes that had higher coding sequence length and higher exon number than the average for the mouse genome. Unexpectedly, the data showed that ENU-induced mutations were more likely to be found in genes that had a higher G + C content and neighboring base analysis revealed that the identified ENU mutations were more often directly flanked by G or C nucleotides. ENU mutations from phenotype-driven and gene-driven screens were dominantly A:T to T:A transversions or A:T to G:C transitions. Knowledge of the spectrum of mutations that ENU elicits will assist in positional cloning of ENU-induced mutations by allowing prioritization of candidate genes based on some of their inherent features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Barbaric
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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232
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Abstract
Platelets are cell fragments lacking nuclei that play a key role in blood clotting. Using an impressive genetic screen involving ENU-mutagenesis of whole mice, Mason et al. (2007) report in this issue their identification of mutations in the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-x(L) that cause accelerated death of platelets leading to platelet deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Qi
- Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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233
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Wakayama T. Establishment of nuclear transfer embryonic stem cell lines from adult somatic cells by nuclear transfer and its application. ERNST SCHERING RESEARCH FOUNDATION WORKSHOP 2007:111-23. [PMID: 16903420 DOI: 10.1007/3-540-31437-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear transfer can be used to generate embryonic stem cell (ntESC) lines from a patient's own somatic cells. We have shown that ntESCs can be generated relatively easily from a variety of mouse genotypes and cell types of both sexes, even though it may be more difficult to generate clones directly. Several reports have already demonstrated that ntESCs can be used in regenerative medicine in order to rescue immunodeficient or infertile phenotypes. However, it is unclear whether ntES cells are identical to fertilized embryonic stem cells (ESCs). This review seeks to describe the phenotype and possible abnormalities of ntESC lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Wakayama
- Riken Center for Developmental Biology, Kobe, Japan.
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234
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Peters LL, Robledo RF, Bult CJ, Churchill GA, Paigen BJ, Svenson KL. The mouse as a model for human biology: a resource guide for complex trait analysis. Nat Rev Genet 2007; 8:58-69. [PMID: 17173058 DOI: 10.1038/nrg2025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The mouse has been a powerful force in elucidating the genetic basis of human physiology and pathophysiology. From its beginnings as the model organism for cancer research and transplantation biology to the present, when dissection of the genetic basis of complex disease is at the forefront of genomics research, an enormous and remarkable mouse resource infrastructure has accumulated. This review summarizes those resources and provides practical guidelines for their use, particularly in the analysis of quantitative traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luanne L Peters
- The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609, USA.
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235
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Aigner B, Rathkolb B, Herbach N, Kemter E, Schessl C, Klaften M, Klempt M, de Angelis MH, Wanke R, Wolf E. Screening for increased plasma urea levels in a large-scale ENU mouse mutagenesis project reveals kidney disease models. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2007; 292:F1560-7. [PMID: 17264314 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00213.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Kidney diseases lead to the failure of urinary excretion of metabolism products. In the Munich ethylnitrosourea (ENU) mouse mutagenesis project, which is done on a C3H inbred genetic background, blood samples of more than 15,000 G1 offspring and 500 G3 pedigrees were screened for alterations in clinical-chemical parameters. We identified 44 animals consistently exhibiting increased plasma urea concentrations. Transmission analysis of the altered phenotype of 23 mice to subsequent generations led to the establishment of five mutant lines. Both sexes were affected in these lines. Urinary urea levels were decreased in the mutants. In addition, most mutants showed increased plasma and decreased urinary creatinine levels. Pathological investigation of kidneys from the five mutant lines revealed a broad spectrum of alterations, ranging from no macroscopic and light microscopic kidney alterations to decreased kidney weight-to-body weight ratio, dilation of the renal pelvis, and severe glomerular lesions. Thus screening for elevated plasma urea levels in a large-scale ENU mouse mutagenesis project resulted in the successful establishment of mouse strains which are valuable tools for molecular studies of mechanisms involved in urea excretion or which represent interesting models for kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Aigner
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and BiotechnologyInstitute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.
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236
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Silver JD, Hilton DJ, Bahlo M, Kile BT. Probabilistic analysis of recessive mutagenesis screen strategies. Mamm Genome 2007; 18:5-22. [PMID: 17245609 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-006-0057-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2006] [Accepted: 09/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Random mutagenesis screens for recessive phenotypes require three generations of breeding, using either a backcross (BC) or intercross (IC) strategy. Hence, they are more costly and technically demanding than those for dominant phenotypes. Maximizing the return from these screens requires maximizing the number of mutations that are bred to homozyosity in the G(3) generation. Using a probabilistic approach, we compare different designs of screens for recessive phenotypes and the impact each one has on the number of mutations that can be effectively screened. We address the issue of BC versus IC strategies and consider genome-wide, region-specific screens and suppressor screens. We find that optimally designed BC and IC screens allow the screening of, on average, similar numbers of mutations but that interpedigree variation is more pronounced when the IC strategy is employed. By conducting a retrospective analysis of published mutagenesis screens, we show that, depending on the strategy, a threefold difference in the numbers of mutations screened per animal used could be expected. This method allows researchers to contrast, for a range of experimental designs, the cost per mutation screened and to maximize the number of mutations that one can expect to screen in a given experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy D Silver
- Division of Molecular Medicine and the Division of Bioinformatics, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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237
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Meyer CW, Elvert R, Scherag A, Ehrhardt N, Gailus-Durner V, Fuchs H, Schäfer H, Hrabé de Angelis M, Heldmaier G, Klingenspor M. Power matters in closing the phenotyping gap. THE SCIENCE OF NATURE - NATURWISSENSCHAFTEN 2007; 94:401-6. [PMID: 17216184 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-006-0203-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2006] [Revised: 11/08/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Much of our understanding of physiology and metabolism is derived from investigating mouse mutants and transgenic mice, and open-access platforms for standardized mouse phenotyping such as the German Mouse Clinic (GMC) are currently viewed as one powerful tool for identifying novel gene-function relationships. Phenotyping or phenotypic screening involves the comparison of wild-type control mice with their mutant or transgenic littermates. In our study, we explored the extent to which standardized phenotyping will succeed in detecting biologically relevant phenotypic differences in mice generated and provided by different collaborators. We analyzed quantitative metabolic data (body mass, energy intake, and energy metabolized) collected at the GMC under the current workflow, and used them for statistical power considerations. Our results demonstrate that there is substantial variability in these parameters among lines of wild-type C57BL/6 (B6) mice from different sources. Given this variable background noise in mice that serve as controls, subtle phenotypes in mutant or transgenic littermates may be overlooked. Furthermore, a phenotype observed in one cohort of a mutant line may not be reproducible (to the same extent) in mice coming from a different environment or supplier. In the light of these constraints, we encourage researchers to incorporate information on intrastrain variability into future study planning, or to perform advanced hierarchical analyses. Both will ultimately improve the detectability of novel phenotypes by phenotypic screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola W Meyer
- Faculty of Biology, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 8, Marburg, Germany.
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238
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McGowan KA, Fuchs H, Hrabé de Angelis M, Barsh GS. Identification of a Keratin 4 Mutation in a Chemically Induced Mouse Mutant that Models White Sponge Nevus. J Invest Dermatol 2007; 127:60-4. [PMID: 16858417 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jid.5700498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
With the goal of increasing the number of genetic entry points for studying physiologic processes and human disease, large-scale, systematic, chemical mutagenesis projects in mice have been initiated in several different centers. We have been studying mouse mutants that exhibit dominantly inherited defects in either skin and/or hair color. Here, we describe a bright coat color mutant, Bright coat color 1 (Bcc1), which develops light-colored hair at 4 weeks of age, and when homozygous exhibits oral leukoplakia and blistering, and growth retardation. We identified a missense mutation in mutant animals that predicts an N154S amino-acid substitution in the 1A domain of Keratin 4 (encoded by the Krt2-4 gene), a region known to be mutated in human patients with white sponge nevus (WSN). Bcc1 recapitulates the gross pathologic, histologic, and genetic aspects of the human disorder, WSN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A McGowan
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305-5323, USA.
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239
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Wakayama T. Production of Cloned Mice and ES Cells from Adult Somatic Cells by Nuclear Transfer: How to Improve Cloning Efficiency? J Reprod Dev 2007; 53:13-26. [PMID: 17332696 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.18120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it has now been 10 years since the first cloned mammals were generated from somatic cells using nuclear transfer (NT), most cloned embryos usually undergo developmental arrest prior to or soon after implantation, and the success rate for producing live offspring by cloning remains below 5%. The low success rate is believed to be associated with epigenetic errors, including abnormal DNA hypermethylation, but the mechanism of "reprogramming" is unclear. We have been able to develop a stable NT method in the mouse in which donor nuclei are directly injected into the oocyte using a piezo-actuated micromanipulator. Especially in the mouse, only a few laboratories can make clones from adult somatic cells, and cloned mice are never successfully produced from most mouse strains. However, this technique promises to be an important tool for future research in basic biology. For example, NT can be used to generate embryonic stem (NT-ES) cell lines from a patient's own somatic cells. We have shown that NT-ES cells are equivalent to ES cells derived from fertilized embryos and that they can be generated relatively easily from a variety of mouse genotypes and cell types of both sexes, even though it may be more difficult to generate clones directly. In general, NT-ES cell techniques are expected to be applied to regenerative medicine; however, this technique can also be applied to the preservation of genetic resources of mouse strain instead of embryos, oocytes and spermatozoa. This review describes how to improve cloning efficiency and NT-ES cell establishment and further applications.
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240
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Rubio-Aliaga I, Soewarto D, Wagner S, Klaften M, Fuchs H, Kalaydjiev S, Busch DH, Klempt M, Rathkolb B, Wolf E, Abe K, Zeiser S, Przemeck GKH, Beckers J, de Angelis MH. A genetic screen for modifiers of the delta1-dependent notch signaling function in the mouse. Genetics 2006; 175:1451-63. [PMID: 17179084 PMCID: PMC1840053 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.106.067298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved transduction pathway involved in embryonic patterning and regulation of cell fates during development. Recent studies have demonstrated that this pathway is integral to a complex system of interactions, which are also involved in distinct human diseases. Delta1 is one of the known ligands of the Notch receptors. Mice homozygous for a loss-of-function allele of the Delta1 gene Dll1(lacZ/lacZ) die during embryonic development. Here, we present the results of two phenotype-driven modifier screens. Heterozygous Dll1(lacZ) knockout animals were crossed with ENU-mutagenized mice and screened for dysmorphological, clinical chemical, and immunological variants that are dependent on the Delta1 loss-of-function allele. First, we show that mutagenized heterozygous Dll1(lacZ) offspring have reduced body weight and altered specific clinical chemical parameters, including changes in metabolites and electrolytes relevant for kidney function. In our mutagenesis screen we have successfully generated 35 new mutant lines. Of major interest are 7 mutant lines that exhibit a Dll1(lacZ/+)-dependent phenotype. These mutant mouse lines provide excellent in vivo tools for studying the role of Notch signaling in kidney and liver function, cholesterol and iron metabolism, cell-fate decisions, and during maturation of T cells in the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Rubio-Aliaga
- Institute of Experimental Genetics, GSF Research Center for Environment and Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
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241
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Huang HW, Chiang YJ, Hung SI, Li CL, Yen JJY. An IL-7 splicing-defect lymphopenia mouse model revealed
by genome-wide mutagenesis. J Biomed Sci 2006; 14:169-81. [PMID: 17151827 DOI: 10.1007/s11373-006-9135-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2006] [Accepted: 10/25/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Homeostasis of the hematopoietic system is tightly regulated by an array of cytokines that control proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of various cell lineages. To identify genes that are essential for hematopoietic homeostasis, we screened C57BL/6 mice that had been genome-wide mutagenized by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) to produce altered blood cell composition. We identified a mutant mouse line with a drastic reduction in the number of T and B cell lineages in lymphatic tissues and peripheral blood, as well as severe atrophy of the thymus and lymph nodes. Genotyping with a genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker set mapped the mutant phenotype to chromosome 3A and subsequent direct DNA sequencing revealed a G-to-A point mutation in the splicing donor site of the third exon of the candidate gene for IL-7, a lymphocyte survival cytokine. Such mutation resulted in skipping of exon 3 and production of an internally truncated IL-7 (DeltaE3-IL7). Furthermore, using recombinant proteins produced in a baculoviral system, we demonstrated that DeltaE3-IL7 had no detectable anti-apoptotic activity even at a dose that was 30 times more than that required for a wild-type protein to manifest a full activity in a naïve T cell survival assay. Our data suggest that this mutant mouse line provides an alternative animal model for the study of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) syndrome in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Wen Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
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242
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Tchekneva EE, Rinchik EM, Polosukhina D, Davis LS, Kadkina V, Mohamed Y, Dunn SR, Sharma K, Qi Z, Fogo AB, Breyer MD. A Sensitized Screen of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea–Mutagenized Mice Identifies Dominant Mutants Predisposed to Diabetic Nephropathy. J Am Soc Nephrol 2006; 18:103-12. [PMID: 17151334 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2006020164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a late diabetic complication that comprises progressively increasing albuminuria, declining GFR, and increased cardiovascular risk. Only a minority of patients with diabetes (25 to 40%) develop nephropathy, and there is evidence that heritable genetic factors predispose these "at-risk" individuals to DN. Comparing variability among inbred mouse strains with respect to a specific phenotype can model interhuman variability, and each strain represents a genetically homogeneous system with a defined risk for nephropathy. C57BL/6 mice, which are relatively resistant to DN, were mutagenized using N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea and screened for mutants that developed excess albuminuria on a sensitizing type 1 diabetic background contributed by the dominant Akita mutation in insulin-2 gene (Ins2(Akita)). Two of 375 diabetic G1 founders were found to exhibit albumin excretion rates persistently 10-fold greater than albumin excretion rates in nonmutagenized Ins2(Akita) controls. This albuminuria trait was heritable and transmitted to approximately 50% of Ins2(Akita) G2 and G3 progeny, consistent with a simple, dominantly inherited trait, but was never observed in nondiabetic offspring. During the course of 1 yr, albuminuric Ins2(Akita) G2 and G3 progeny developed reduced inulin clearance with elevated blood urea nitrogen and plasma creatinine. Glomerular histology revealed mesangial expansion, and glomerular basement membrane thickening as determined by electron microscopy was enhanced in diabetic mutant kidneys. Hereditary albuminuric N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-induced mutants were redesignated as Nphrp1 (nephropathy1) and Nphrp2 (nephropathy2) mice for two generated lines. These novel mutants provide new, robust mouse models of DN and should help to elucidate the underlying genetic basis of predisposition to DN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena E Tchekneva
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 21st Avenue S. at Garland, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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243
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Runkel F, Klaften M, Koch K, Böhnert V, Büssow H, Fuchs H, Franz T, Hrabé de Angelis M. Morphologic and molecular characterization of two novel Krt71 (Krt2-6g) mutations: Krt71rco12 and Krt71rco13. Mamm Genome 2006; 17:1172-82. [PMID: 17143583 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-006-0084-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2006] [Accepted: 08/30/2006] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We have analyzed two novel mouse mutant strains, Rco12 and Rco13, displaying a wavy pelage and curly vibrissae that have been identified in an ENU screen for dominant mutations affecting the pelage. The mutations were mapped to mouse Chromosome 15 and identified as missense point mutations in the first exon of the Krt71 (formerly called Krt2-6g) gene causing alterations of amino acid residue 143 from alanine to glycine (Rco12) and residue 146 from isoleucine to phenylalanine. The morphologic analyses demonstrated that both mutations cause identical phenotypes leading to the formation of filamentous aggregates in Henle's and Huxley's layers of the inner root sheath (IRS) of the hair follicle that leads to the bending of the hair shaft. Both novel mutations are located in the immediate vicinity of previously identified mutations in murine Krt71 that cause similar phenotypes and alter the helix initiation motif of the keratin. The characterization of these mutants demonstrates the importance of this Krt71 domain for the formation of linear IRS intermediate filaments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Runkel
- Anatomisches Institut, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Nussallee 10, D-53115 Bonn, Germany
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244
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Kao HJ, Cheng CF, Chen YH, Hung SI, Huang CC, Millington D, Kikuchi T, Wu JY, Chen YT. ENU mutagenesis identifies mice with cardiac fibrosis and hepatic steatosis caused by a mutation in the mitochondrial trifunctional protein beta-subunit. Hum Mol Genet 2006; 15:3569-77. [PMID: 17116638 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddl433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Using the metabolomics-guided screening coupled to N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea-mediated mutagenesis, we identified mice that exhibited elevated levels of long-chain acylcarnitines. Whole genome homozygosity mapping with 262 SNP markers mapped the disease gene to chromosome 5 where candidate genes Hadha and Hadhb, encoding the mitochondria trifunctional protein (MTP) alpha- and beta-subunits, respectively, are located. Direct sequencing revealed a normal alpha-subunit, but detected a nucleotide T-to-A transversion in exon 14 (c.1210T>A) of beta-subunit (Hadhb) which resulted in a missense mutation of methionine to lysine (M404K). Western blot analysis showed a significant reduction of both the alpha- and beta-subunits, consistent with reduced enzyme activity in both the long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase and the long-chain 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase activities. These mice had a decreased weight gain and cardiac arrhythmias which manifested from a prolonged PR interval to a complete atrio-ventricular dissociation, and died suddenly between 9 and 16 months of age. Histopathological studies showed multifocal cardiac fibrosis and hepatic steatosis. This mouse model will be useful to further investigate the mechanisms underlying arrhythmogenesis relating to lipotoxic cardiomyopathy and to investigate pathophysiology and treatment strategies for human MTP deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Jung Kao
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei, Taiwan
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245
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Abstract
Over the past years new vectors and methodologies have been developed to carry out large-scale genome-wide insertional mutagenesis screens in the mouse. Gene trapping, the most commonly used technique, is based on the insertion of a retroviral- or plasmid-based vector into a gene, resulting in a loss-of-function mutation, while simultaneously reporting its expression pattern and providing a molecular tag to facilitate cloning. The discovery of vertebrate DNA transposons in the mouse and recent improvements has also led to their increased use in insertional mutagenesis screens. Several public resources have been set-up recently by the academic community to distribute information and materials generated from these large-scale screens. These new resources should accelerate the study and understanding of biological and developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S Raymond
- Program in Developmental Biology, Division of Basic Sciences, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
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246
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Caspary T, Anderson KV. Uncovering the uncharacterized and unexpected: unbiased phenotype-driven screens in the mouse. Dev Dyn 2006; 235:2412-23. [PMID: 16724327 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.20853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotype-based chemical mutagenesis screens for mouse mutations have undergone a transformation in the past five years from a potential approach to a practical tool. This change has been driven by the relative ease of identifying causative mutations now that the complete genome sequence is available. These unbiased screens make it possible to identify genes, gene functions and processes that are uniquely important to mammals. In addition, because chemical mutagenesis generally induces point mutations, these alleles often uncover previously unappreciated functions of known proteins. Here we provide examples of the success stories from forward genetic screens, emphasizing the examples that illustrate the discovery of mammalian-specific processes that could not be discovered in other model organisms. As the efficiency of sequencing and mutation detection continues to improve, it is likely that forward genetic screens will provide an even more important part of the repertoire of mouse genetics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Caspary
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
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247
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Alexander WS, Viney EM, Zhang JG, Metcalf D, Kauppi M, Hyland CD, Carpinelli MR, Stevenson W, Croker BA, Hilton AA, Ellis S, Selan C, Nandurkar HH, Goodnow CC, Kile BT, Nicola NA, Roberts AW, Hilton DJ. Thrombocytopenia and kidney disease in mice with a mutation in the C1galt1 gene. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:16442-7. [PMID: 17062753 PMCID: PMC1637601 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0607872103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis screen in mice was performed to isolate regulators of circulating platelet number. We report here recessive thrombocytopenia and kidney disease in plt1 mice, which is the result of a severe but partial loss-of-function mutation in the gene encoding glycoprotein-N-acetylgalactosamine-3-beta-galactosyltransferase (C1GalT1), an enzyme essential for the synthesis of extended mucin-type O-glycans. Platelet half-life and basic hemostatic parameters were unaffected in plt1/plt1 mice, and the thrombocytopenia and kidney disease were not attenuated on a lymphocyte-deficient rag1-null background. gpIbalpha and podocalyxin were found to be major underglycosylated proteins in plt1/plt1 platelets and the kidney, respectively, implying that these are key targets for C1GalT1, appropriate glycosylation of which is essential for platelet production and kidney function. Compromised C1GalT1 activity has been associated with immune-mediated diseases in humans, most notably Tn syndrome and IgA nephropathy. The disease in plt1/plt1 mice suggests that, in addition to immune-mediated effects, intrinsic C1Gal-T1 deficiency in megakaryocytes and the kidney may contribute to pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren S. Alexander
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- To whom correspondence may be addressed. E-mail:
or
| | - Elizabeth M. Viney
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Jian-Guo Zhang
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Donald Metcalf
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- To whom correspondence may be addressed. E-mail:
or
| | - Maria Kauppi
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Craig D. Hyland
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Marina R. Carpinelli
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - William Stevenson
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Ben A. Croker
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Adrienne A. Hilton
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Sarah Ellis
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Trescowthick Research Laboratories, St. Andrew's Place, East Melbourne, Victoria 3002, Australia
| | - Carly Selan
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; and
| | - Harshal H. Nandurkar
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent's Hospital, 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia; and
| | - Christopher C. Goodnow
- Australian Cancer Research Foundation Genetics Laboratory, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Mills Road, Australian National University, Canberra 2601, Australia
| | - Benjamin T. Kile
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Nicos A. Nicola
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Andrew W. Roberts
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Douglas J. Hilton
- *The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
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248
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Masuya H, Sezutsu H, Sakuraba Y, Sagai T, Hosoya M, Kaneda H, Miura I, Kobayashi K, Sumiyama K, Shimizu A, Nagano J, Yokoyama H, Kaneko S, Sakurai N, Okagaki Y, Noda T, Wakana S, Gondo Y, Shiroishi T. A series of ENU-induced single-base substitutions in a long-range cis-element altering Sonic hedgehog expression in the developing mouse limb bud. Genomics 2006; 89:207-14. [PMID: 17049204 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2006.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2006] [Revised: 09/06/2006] [Accepted: 09/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mammal-fish-conserved-sequence 1 (MFCS1) is a highly conserved sequence that acts as a limb-specific cis-acting regulator of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) expression, residing 1 Mb away from the Shh coding sequence in mouse. Using gene-driven screening of an ENU-mutagenized mouse archive, we obtained mice with three new point mutations in MFCS1: M101116, M101117, and M101192. Phenotype analysis revealed that M101116 mice exhibit preaxial polydactyly and ectopic Shh expression at the anterior margin of the limb buds like a previously identified mutant, M100081. In contrast, M101117 and M101192 show no marked abnormalities in limb morphology. Furthermore, transgenic analysis revealed that the M101116 and M100081 sequences drive ectopic reporter gene expression at the anterior margin of the limb bud, in addition to the normal posterior expression. Such ectopic expression was not observed in the embryos carrying a reporter transgene driven by M101117. These results suggest that M101116 and M100081 affect the negative regulatory activity of MFCS1, which suppresses anterior Shh expression in developing limb buds. Thus, this study shows that gene-driven screening for ENU-induced mutations is an effective approach for exploring the function of conserved, noncoding sequences and potential cis-regulatory elements.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Conserved Sequence
- DNA Primers/genetics
- Enhancer Elements, Genetic
- Ethylnitrosourea
- Extremities/embryology
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
- Genes, Regulator
- Genes, Reporter
- Genetic Complementation Test
- Hedgehog Proteins/genetics
- In Situ Hybridization
- Limb Deformities, Congenital/embryology
- Limb Deformities, Congenital/genetics
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Inbred DBA
- Mice, Mutant Strains
- Mice, Transgenic
- Phenotype
- Point Mutation
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Pregnancy
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Masuya
- Mouse Functional Genomics Research Group, RIKEN GSC 3-1-1 Kouyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
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249
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Kermany MH, Parker LL, Guo YK, Miller D, Swanson DJ, Yoo TJ, Goldowitz D, Zuo J. Identification of 17 hearing impaired mouse strains in the TMGC ENU-mutagenesis screen. Hear Res 2006; 220:76-86. [PMID: 16949226 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2006.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2006] [Revised: 07/08/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The Tennessee Mouse Genome Consortium (TMGC) employed an N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU)-mutagenesis scheme to identify mouse recessive mutants with hearing phenotypes. We employed auditory brainstem responses (ABR) to click and 8, 16, and 32 kHz stimuli and screened 285 pedigrees (1819 mice of 8-11 weeks old in various mixed genetic backgrounds) each bred to carry a homozygous ENU-induced mutation. To define mutant pedigrees, we measured > or = 12 mice per pedigree in > or = 2 generations and used a criterion where the mean ABR threshold per pedigree was two standard deviations above the mean of all offspring from the same parental strain. We thus identified 17 mutant pedigrees (6%), all exhibiting hearing loss at high frequencies (> or = 16 kHz) with an average threshold elevation of 30-35 dB SPL. Interestingly, four mutants showed sex-biased hearing loss and six mutants displayed wide range frequency hearing loss. Temporal bone histology revealed that six of the first nine mutants displayed cochlear morphological defects: degeneration of spiral ganglia, spiral ligament fibrocytes or inner hair cells (but not outer hair cells) mostly in basal turns. In contrast to other ENU-mutagenesis auditory screens, our screen identified high-frequency, mild and sex-biased hearing defects. Further characterization of these 17 mouse models will advance our understanding of presbycusis and noise-induced hearing loss in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Habiby Kermany
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
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250
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Zheng QY, Hardisty-Hughes R, Brown SDM. Mouse models as a tool to unravel the genetic basis for human otitis media. Brain Res 2006; 1091:9-15. [PMID: 16917982 PMCID: PMC2855297 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2006.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of otitis media (OM) is multifactorial and includes infection, anatomical factors, immunologic status, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. OM remains the most common cause of hearing impairment in childhood. Genetic predisposition is increasingly recognized as an important factor. The completion of the mouse genome sequence has offered a powerful basket of tools for investigating gene function and can expect to generate a rich resource of mouse mutants for the elucidation of genetic factors underlying OM. We review the literature and discuss recent progresses in developing mouse models and using mouse models to uncover the genetic basis for human OM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Yin Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology, Case Western Reserve Universuty, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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