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Liu T, Li T, Ke S. Role of the CASZ1 transcription factor in tissue development and disease. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:562. [PMID: 38053207 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01548-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The zinc finger transcription factor gene, CASZ1/Castor (Castor zinc finger 1), initially identified in Drosophila, plays a critical role in neural, cardiac, and cardiovascular development, exerting a complex, multifaceted influence on cell fate and tissue morphogenesis. During neurogenesis, CASZ1 exhibits dynamic expression from early embryonic development to the perinatal period, constituting a key regulator in this process. Additionally, CASZ1 controls the transition between neurogenesis and gliomagenesis. During human cardiovascular system development, CASZ1 is essential for cardiomyocyte differentiation, cardiac morphogenesis, and vascular morphology homeostasis and formation. The deletion or inactivation of CASZ1 mutations can lead to human developmental diseases or tumors, including congenital heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and neuroblastoma. CASZ1 can be used as a biomarker for disease prevention and diagnosis as well as a prognostic indicator for cancer. This review explores the unique functions of CASZ1 in tissue morphogenesis and associated diseases, offering new insights for elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying diseases and identifying potential therapeutic targets for disease prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, 156 Jinshui East Road, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China.
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China.
| | - Tao Li
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Shaorui Ke
- Henan Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Disease, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, 156 Jinshui East Road, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
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2
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Alkhodari M, Widatalla N, Wahbah M, Al Sakaji R, Funamoto K, Krishnan A, Kimura Y, Khandoker AH. Deep learning identifies cardiac coupling between mother and fetus during gestation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:926965. [PMID: 35966548 PMCID: PMC9372367 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.926965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, stillbirth has caused around 2 million fetal deaths worldwide. Although current ultrasound tools are reliably used for the assessment of fetal growth during pregnancy, it still raises safety issues on the fetus, requires skilled providers, and has economic concerns in less developed countries. Here, we propose deep coherence, a novel artificial intelligence (AI) approach that relies on 1 min non-invasive electrocardiography (ECG) to explain the association between maternal and fetal heartbeats during pregnancy. We validated the performance of this approach using a trained deep learning tool on a total of 941 one minute maternal-fetal R-peaks segments collected from 172 pregnant women (20–40 weeks). The high accuracy achieved by the tool (90%) in identifying coupling scenarios demonstrated the potential of using AI as a monitoring tool for frequent evaluation of fetal development. The interpretability of deep learning was significant in explaining synchronization mechanisms between the maternal and fetal heartbeats. This study could potentially pave the way toward the integration of automated deep learning tools in clinical practice to provide timely and continuous fetal monitoring while reducing triage, side-effects, and costs associated with current clinical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohanad Alkhodari
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Mohanad Alkhodari
| | - Namareq Widatalla
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Maisam Wahbah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raghad Al Sakaji
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kiyoe Funamoto
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anita Krishnan
- Division of Cardiology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Yoshitaka Kimura
- Department of Maternal and Child Health Care Medical Science, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ahsan H. Khandoker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Ahsan H. Khandoker
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3
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Hickmott RA, Bosakhar A, Quezada S, Barresi M, Walker DW, Ryan AL, Quigley A, Tolcos M. The One-Stop Gyrification Station - Challenges and New Technologies. Prog Neurobiol 2021; 204:102111. [PMID: 34166774 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2021.102111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of the folded cortical surface is an iconic feature of the human brain shared by a subset of mammals and considered pivotal for the emergence of higher-order cognitive functions. While our understanding of the neurodevelopmental processes involved in corticogenesis has greatly advanced over the past 70 years of brain research, the fundamental mechanisms that result in gyrification, along with its originating cytoarchitectural location, remain largely unknown. This review brings together numerous approaches to this basic neurodevelopmental problem, constructing a narrative of how various models, techniques and tools have been applied to the study of gyrification thus far. After a brief discussion of core concepts and challenges within the field, we provide an analysis of the significant discoveries derived from the parallel use of model organisms such as the mouse, ferret, sheep and non-human primates, particularly with regard to how they have shaped our understanding of cortical folding. We then focus on the latest developments in the field and the complementary application of newly emerging technologies, such as cerebral organoids, advanced neuroimaging techniques, and atomic force microscopy. Particular emphasis is placed upon the use of novel computational and physical models in regard to the interplay of biological and physical forces in cortical folding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan A Hickmott
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia; BioFab3D@ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Abdulhameed Bosakhar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Sebastian Quezada
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Mikaela Barresi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - David W Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Amy L Ryan
- Hastings Centre for Pulmonary Research, Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, USA and Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Anita Quigley
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia; BioFab3D@ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Electromaterials Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia.
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4
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Olivieri B, Rampakakis E, Gilbert G, Fezoua A, Wintermark P. Myelination may be impaired in neonates following birth asphyxia. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2021; 31:102678. [PMID: 34082365 PMCID: PMC8182124 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Myelination is a developmental process that intensifies after birth during the first years of life. We used a T2* mapping sequence to assess myelination in healthy and critically ill neonates with neonatal encephalopathy. Birth asphyxia, in addition to causing the previously well-described direct injury to the brain, may impair myelination.
Background Myelination is a developmental process that begins during the end of gestation, intensifies after birth over the first years of life, and continues well into adolescence. Any event leading to brain injury around the time of birth and during the perinatal period, such as birth asphyxia, may impair this critical process. Currently, the impact of such brain injury related to birth asphyxia on the myelination process is unknown. Objective To assess the myelination pattern over the first month of life in neonates with neonatal encephalopathy (NE) developing brain injury, compared to neonates without injury (i.e., healthy neonates and neonates with NE who do not develop brain injury). Methods Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed around day of life 2, 10, and 30 in healthy neonates and near-term/term neonates with NE who were treated with hypothermia. We evaluated myelination in various regions of interest using a T2* mapping sequence. In each region of interest, we compared the T2* values of the neonates with NE with brain injury to the values of the neonates without injury, according to the MRI timing, by using a repeated measures generalized linear mixed model. Results We obtained 74 MRI scans over the first month of life for 6 healthy neonates, 17 neonates with NE who were treated with hypothermia and did not develop brain injury, and 16 neonates with NE who were treated with hypothermia and developed brain injury. The T2* values significantly increased in the neonates with NE who developed injury in the posterior limbs of the internal capsule (day 2: p < 0.001; day 10: p < 0.001; and day 30: p < 0.001), the thalami (day 2: p = 0.001; day 10: p = 0.006; and day 30: p = 0.016), the lentiform nuclei (day 2: p = 0.005), the anterior white matter (day 2: p = 0.002; day 10: p = 0.006; and day 30: p = 0.002), the posterior white matter (day 2: p = 0.001; day 10: p = 0.008; and day 30: p = 0.03), the genu of the corpus callosum (day 2: p = 0.01; and day 10: p = 0.006), and the optic radiations (day 30: p < 0.001). Conclusion In the neonates with NE who were treated with hypothermia and developed brain injury, birth asphyxia impaired myelination in the regions that are myelinated at birth or soon after birth (the posterior limbs of internal capsule, the thalami, and the lentiform nuclei), in the regions where the myelination process begins only after the perinatal period (optic radiations), and in the regions where this process does not occur until months after birth (anterior/posterior white matter), which suggests that birth asphyxia, in addition to causing the previously well-described direct injury to the brain, may impair myelination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Olivieri
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Emmanouil Rampakakis
- Medical Affairs, JSS Medical Research, Montreal, Québec, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Aliona Fezoua
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pia Wintermark
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Newborn Medicine, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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5
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Bénardais K, Delfino G, Samama B, Devys D, Antal MC, Ghandour MS, Boehm N. BBS4 protein has basal body/ciliary localization in sensory organs but extra-ciliary localization in oligodendrocytes during human development. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 385:37-48. [PMID: 33860840 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03440-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Bardet-Biedl syndrome protein 4 (BBS4) localization has been studied in human embryos/fetuses from Carnegie stage 15 to 37 gestational weeks in neurosensory organs and brain, underlying the major clinical signs of BBS. We observed a correlation between the differentiation of the neurosensory cells (hair cells, photoreceptors, olfactory neurons) and the presence of a punctate BBS4 immunostaining in their apical cytoplasm. In the brain, BBS4 was localized in oligodendrocytes and myelinated tracts. In individual myelinated fibers, BBS4 immunolabelling was discontinuous, predominantly at the periphery of the myelin sheath. BBS4 immunolabelling was confirmed in postnatal developing white matter tracts in mouse as well as in mouse oligodendrocytes cultures. In neuroblasts/neurons, BBS4 was only present in reelin-expressing Cajal-Retzius cells. Our results show that BBS4, a protein of the BBSome, has both basal body/ciliary localization in neurosensory organs but extra-ciliary localization in oligodendrocytes. The presence of BBS4 in developing oligodendrocytes and myelin described in the present paper might attribute a new role to this protein, requiring further investigation in the field of myelin formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bénardais
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France. .,Institut d'Histologie, Service Central de Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France. .,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France. .,Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - G Delfino
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France.,Institut d'Histologie, Service Central de Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - B Samama
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France.,Institut d'Histologie, Service Central de Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France.,Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - D Devys
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France.,Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Institut de Génétique Et de Biologie Moléculaire Et Cellulaire IGBMC, UMR7104, Centre National de La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, Illkirch, France
| | - M C Antal
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France.,Institut d'Histologie, Service Central de Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France.,Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - M S Ghandour
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France
| | - N Boehm
- ICube Laboratory, UMR 7357, Team IMIS, Strasbourg, France.,Institut d'Histologie, Service Central de Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg FMTS, Strasbourg, France.,Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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6
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Montenegro YHA, de Queiroga Nascimento D, de Assis TO, Santos-Lopes SSD. The epigenetics of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in fetal development. Ann Hum Genet 2019; 83:195-213. [PMID: 30843189 DOI: 10.1111/ahg.12306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is an important hormonal mechanism of the human body and is extremely programmable during embryonic and fetal development. Analyzing its development in this period is the key to understanding in fact how vulnerabilities of congenital diseases occur and any other changes in the phenotypic and histophysiological aspects of the fetus. The environment in which the mother is exposed during the gestational period can influence this axis. Knowing this, our objective was to analyze in recent research the possible impact of epigenetic programming on the HPA axis and its consequences for fetal development. This review brought together articles from two databases: ScienceDirect and PUBMED researched based on key words such as "epigenetics, HPA axis, cardiovascular disease, and circulatory problems" where it demonstrated full relevance in experimental and scientific settings. A total of 101 articles were selected following the criteria established by the researchers. Thus, it was possible to verify that the development of the HPA axis is directly related to changes that occur in the cardiovascular system, to the cerebral growth and other systems depending on the influence that it receives in the period of fetal formation.
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7
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Shi J, Chang L, Wang J, Zhang S, Yao Y, Zhang S, Jiang R, Guo L, Guan H, Zhu W. Initial Application of Diffusional Kurtosis Imaging in Evaluating Brain Development of Healthy Preterm Infants. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0154146. [PMID: 27101246 PMCID: PMC4839617 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0154146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the parametric characteristics of diffusional kurtosis imaging (DKI) in the brain development of healthy preterm infants. Materials and Methods Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and DKI were performed in 35 preterm (29 to 36 weeks gestational age [GA]; scanned at 33 to 44 weeks postmenstrual age [PMA]) and 10 term infants (37.4 to 40.7 weeks GA; scanned at 38.3 to 42.9 weeks PMA). Fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD) and mean kurtosis (MK) values from 8 regions of interest, including both white matter (WM) and gray matter (GM), were obtained. Results MK and FA values were positively correlated with PMA in most selected WM regions, such as the posterior limbs of the internal capsule (PLIC) and the splenium of the corpus callosum (SCC). The positive correlation between MK value and PMA in the deep GM region was higher than that between FA and PMA. The MK value gradually decreased from the PLIC to the cerebral lobe. In addition, DKI parameters exhibited subtle differences in the parietal WM between the preterm and term control groups. Conclusions MK may serve as a more reliable imaging marker of the normal myelination process and provide a more robust characterization of deep GM maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Shi
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liwen Chang
- Department ofneonatology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shun Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yihao Yao
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuixia Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rifeng Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Linying Guo
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hanxiong Guan
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- * E-mail: (HXG); (WZZ)
| | - Wenzhen Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- * E-mail: (HXG); (WZZ)
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8
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Zhang JT, Weng ZH, Tsang KS, Tsang LL, Chan HC, Jiang XH. MycN Is Critical for the Maintenance of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neural Crest Stem Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148062. [PMID: 26815535 PMCID: PMC4729679 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The biologic studies of human neural crest stem cells (hNCSCs) are extremely challenging due to the limited source of hNCSCs as well as ethical and technical issues surrounding isolation of early human embryonic tissues. On the other hand, vast majority of studies on MycN have been conducted in human tumor cells, thus, the role of MycN in normal human neural crest development is completely unknown. In the present study, we determined the role of MycN in hNCSCs isolated from in vitro-differentiating human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). For the first time, we show that suppression of MycN in hNCSCs inhibits cell growth and cell cycle progression. Knockdown of MycN in hNCSCs increases the expression of Cdkn1a, Cdkn2a and Cdkn2b, which encodes the cyclin-dependent kinases p21CIP1, p16 INK4a and p15INK4b. In addition, MycN is involved in the regulation of human sympathetic neurogenesis, as knockdown of MycN enhances the expression of key transcription factors involved in sympathetic neuron differentiation, including Phox2a, Phox2b, Mash1, Hand2 and Gata3. We propose that unlimited source of hNCSCs provides an invaluable platform for the studies of human neural crest development and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ting Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Zhi Hui Weng
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Kam Sze Tsang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Lai Ling Tsang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Hsiao Chang Chan
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xiao Hua Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Ministry of Education, Epithelial Cell Biology Research Center, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, PR China
- * E-mail:
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9
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Antal MC, Samama B, Ghandour MS, Boehm N. Human Neural Cells Transiently Express Reelin during Olfactory Placode Development. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135710. [PMID: 26270645 PMCID: PMC4535952 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reelin, an extracellular glycoprotein is essential for migration and correct positioning of neurons during development. Since the olfactory system is known as a source of various migrating neuronal cells, we studied Reelin expression in the two chemosensory olfactory systems, main and accessory, during early developmental stages of human foetuses/embryos from Carnegie Stage (CS) 15 to gestational week (GW) 14. From CS 15 to CS 18, but not at later stages, a transient expression of Reelin was detected first in the presumptive olfactory and then in the presumptive vomeronasal epithelium. During the same period, Reelin-positive cells detach from the olfactory/vomeronasal epithelium and migrate through the mesenchyme beneath the telencephalon. Dab 1, an adaptor protein of the Reelin pathway, was simultaneously expressed in the migratory mass from CS16 to CS17 and, at later stages, in the presumptive olfactory ensheathing cells. Possible involvements of Reelin and Dab 1 in the peripheral migrating stream are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Cristina Antal
- Institut d'Histologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- CNRS UMR 7357, Strasbourg, France
| | - Brigitte Samama
- Institut d'Histologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - M. Said Ghandour
- Laboratoire d’Imagerie et de Neurosciences Cognitives, CNRS, UMR 7237, Strasbourg, France
- CNRS UMR 7357, Strasbourg, France
| | - Nelly Boehm
- Institut d'Histologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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10
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Reid SN, Ziermann JM, Gondré-Lewis MC. Genetically induced abnormal cranial development in human trisomy 18 with holoprosencephaly: comparisons with the normal tempo of osteogenic-neural development. J Anat 2015; 227:21-33. [PMID: 26018729 PMCID: PMC4475356 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Craniofacial malformations are common congenital defects caused by failed midline inductive signals. These midline defects are associated with exposure of the fetus to exogenous teratogens and with inborn genetic errors such as those found in Down, Patau, Edwards' and Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndromes. Yet, there are no studies that analyze contributions of synchronous neurocranial and neural development in these disorders. Here we present the first in-depth analysis of malformations of the basicranium of a holoprosencephalic (HPE) trisomy 18 (T18; Edwards' syndrome) fetus with synophthalmic cyclopia and alobar HPE. With a combination of traditional gross dissection and state-of-the-art computed tomography, we demonstrate the deleterious effects of T18 caused by a translocation at 18p11.31. Bony features included a single developmentally unseparated frontal bone, and complete dual absence of the anterior cranial fossa and ethmoid bone. From a superior view with the calvarium plates removed, there was direct visual access to the orbital foramen and hard palate. Both the eyes and the pituitary gland, normally protected by bony structures, were exposed in the cranial cavity and in direct contact with the brain. The middle cranial fossa was shifted anteriorly, and foramina were either missing or displaced to an abnormal location due to the absence or misplacement of its respective cranial nerve (CN). When CN development was conserved in its induction and placement, the respective foramen developed in its normal location albeit with abnormal gross anatomical features, as seen in the facial nerve (CNVII) and the internal acoustic meatus. More anteriorly localized CNs and their foramina were absent or heavily disrupted compared with posterior ones. The severe malformations exhibited in the cranial fossae, orbital region, pituitary gland and sella turcica highlight the crucial involvement of transcription factors such as TGIF, which is located on chromosome 18 and contributes to neural patterning, in the proper development of neural and cranial structures. Our study of a T18 specimen emphasizes the intricate interplay between bone and brain development in midline craniofacial abnormalities in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaina N Reid
- Laboratory for Neurodevelopment, Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of MedicineWashington, DC, USA
| | - Janine M Ziermann
- Laboratory for Neurodevelopment, Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of MedicineWashington, DC, USA
| | - Marjorie C Gondré-Lewis
- Laboratory for Neurodevelopment, Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of MedicineWashington, DC, USA
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Abstract
The pituitary gland's role as a functional matrix for sella turcica has not been suggested in orthodontic literature. This paper is an attempt to correlate the role of pituitary gland in the development of sella turcica. A case report of dwarfism associated with hypopituitarism is presented to highlight the above hypothesis.
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Neurological failure is the most apprehension complication of pregnancy, labor and the neonatal period. The origin and outcome correlation is frequently doubtful. The arrival of four-dimensional ultrasonography (4D US) and its function to study fetal behavior patterns have initiated to offer insight into the structural and functional fetal brain development. Although many fetal behavioral studies have been conducted, it is still questionable whether the assessment of continuity from fetal to neonatal behavior could improve our ability of early detection of brain pathology. Neurological assessment of fetus in utero is extremely difficult even having such sophisticated equipment like 4D ultrasound. As it is well known that quantity of GMs is not so informative and predictive for neurological impairment, their quality should be assessed. Gestalt perception of premature GMs we are dealing with in utero and several weeks postnatally are not as predictive for the detection of neurologically abnormal fetuses or newborns as fidgety GMs. Therefore, some additional parameters should be added to the prenatal neurological examination in order to improve our ability to make the distinction between normal and abnormal fetuses.
How to cite this article
Kurjak A, Antsaklis P, Stanojevic M. Fetal Neurology: Past, Present and Future. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015;9(1):6-29.
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Ling X, Tang W, Liu G, Huang L, Li B, Li X, Liu S, Xu J. Assessment of brain maturation in the preterm infants using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and enhanced T2 star weighted angiography (ESWAN). Eur J Radiol 2013; 82:e476-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2013.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Kjær I. Sella turcica morphology and the pituitary gland—a new contribution to craniofacial diagnostics based on histology and neuroradiology. Eur J Orthod 2012; 37:28-36. [DOI: 10.1093/ejo/cjs091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Jiang X, Gwye Y, McKeown SJ, Bronner-Fraser M, Lutzko C, Lawlor ER. Isolation and characterization of neural crest stem cells derived from in vitro-differentiated human embryonic stem cells. Stem Cells Dev 2009; 18:1059-70. [PMID: 19099373 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2008.0362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The neural crest is a transient structure of vertebrate embryos that initially generates neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) which then migrate throughout the body to produce a diverse array of mature tissue types. Due to the rarity of adult NCSCs as well as ethical and technical issues surrounding isolation of early embryonic tissues, biologic studies of human NCSCs are extremely challenging. Thus, much of what is known about human neural crest development has been inferred from model organisms. In this study, we report that functional NCSCs can be rapidly generated and isolated from in vitro-differentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Using the stromal-derived inducing activity (SDIA) of PA6 fibroblast co-culture we have induced hESCs to differentiate into neural crest. Within 1 week, migrating cells that express the early neural crest markers p75 and HNK1 as well as numerous other genes associated with neural crest induction such as SNAIL, SLUG, and SOX10 are detectable. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-based isolation of the p75-positive population enriches for cells with genetic, phenotypic, and functional characteristics of NCSCs. These p75-enriched cells readily form neurospheres in suspension culture, self-renew to form secondary spheres, and give rise under differentiation conditions to multiple neural crest lineages including peripheral nerves, glial, and myofibroblastic cells. Importantly, these cells differentiate into neural crest derivatives when transplanted into developing chick embryos in vivo. Thus, this SDIA protocol can be used to successfully and efficiently isolate early human NCSCs from hESCs in vitro. This renewable source of NCSCs provides an invaluable source of cells for studies of both normal and disordered human neural crest development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Jiang
- Divisions of Hematology-Oncology, The Saban Research Institute, Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA
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Coen M, Wevers RA, Lindon JC, Blom HJ. High-resolution 1H NMR spectroscopic investigation of a chick embryo model of neural tube development. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IN CHEMISTRY : MRC 2009; 47 Suppl 1:S62-S67. [PMID: 19862797 DOI: 10.1002/mrc.2534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
High-field (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy together with cryogenic probe capabilities have been applied to obtain metabolic profiles of chick embryos and to determine the suitability of the platform for profiling such mass-limited samples. Metabolic profiles were generated for both pooled and single embryo samples at early stages of neural development, using both 600 and 800 MHz (1)H NMR spectrometer platforms. High-resolution metabolic profiles, representing metabolites from many chemical classes, including triglycerides, organic acids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleosides, were rapidly acquired. Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe congenital malformations, and evidence exists for prevention of NTDs by periconceptional supplementation of the diet with folate. The molecular basis for the protective ability of folate in prevention of NTDs is not clear, although the involvement of methylation has been postulated. Thus, the metabolic profiles of chick embryos following inhibition of enzymes of the methylation cycle and the effect of their action on neural tube closure were investigated. The embryos were profiled at early stages of development, and closure of the neural tube was followed via digital imaging. Metabolic profiles of embryo samples representing both neural tube closure and the neural tube remaining open were discriminated; glucose levels were found to be significantly higher in methylation-inhibited samples. The application of a non-targeted metabolic profiling approach for the study of a chick embryo model of NTDs is novel and presents the exciting potential to provide metabolic insight necessary to elucidate the complex interplay of one-carbon moiety metabolism and NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muireann Coen
- Biomolecular Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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Abstract
This review provides a brief description of folate use and folic acid metabolism in relation to neural tube defect (NTD) risk. First, a meta-analysis of reduction in NTD recurrence and occurrence risk with periconceptional folic acid supplementation is presented. Second, an overview of the complex folate metabolism is given. Third, SNPs for genes involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism that have been studied in relation to NTD riskare discussed. Fourth, the questions whether folate receptor autoantibodies or hampered methylation are mechanisms underlying NTDs are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henk J Blom
- Metabolic Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Free University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Vickaryous MK, Hall BK. Human cell type diversity, evolution, development, and classification with special reference to cells derived from the neural crest. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2006; 81:425-55. [PMID: 16790079 DOI: 10.1017/s1464793106007068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2005] [Revised: 03/29/2006] [Accepted: 04/03/2006] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Metazoans are composed of a finite number of recognisable cell types. Similar to the relationship between species and ecosystems, knowledge of cell type diversity contributes to studies of complexity and evolution. However, as with other units of evolution, the cell type often resists definition. This review proposes guidelines for characterising cell types and discusses cell homology and the various developmental pathways by which cell types arise, including germ layers, blastemata (secondary development/neurulation), stem cells, and transdifferentiation. An updated list of cell types is presented for a familiar, albeit overlooked model taxon, adult Homo sapiens, with 411 cell types, including 145 types of neurons, recognised. Two methods for organising these cell types are explored. One is the artificial classification technique, clustering cells using commonly accepted criteria of similarity. The second approach, an empirical method modeled after cladistics, resolves the classification in terms of shared features rather than overall similarity. While the results of each scheme differ, both methods address important questions. The artificial classification provides compelling (and independent) support for the neural crest as the fourth germ layer, while the cladistic approach permits the evaluation of cell type evolution. Using the cladistic approach we observe a correlation between the developmental and evolutionary origin of a cell, suggesting that this method is useful for predicting which cell types share common (multipotential) progenitors. Whereas the current effort is restricted by the availability of phenotypic details for most cell types, the present study demonstrates that a comprehensive cladistic classification is practical, attainable, and warranted. The use of cell types and cell type comparative classification schemes has the potential to offer new and alternative models for therapeutic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K Vickaryous
- Department of Biology, Life Sciences Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4J1.
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Liu Z, Yang X, Tan F, Cullion K, Thiele CJ. Molecular cloning and characterization of human Castor, a novel human gene upregulated during cell differentiation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2006; 344:834-44. [PMID: 16631614 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2006.03.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2006] [Accepted: 03/26/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Castor is a zinc finger transcription factor that controls cell fate within neuroblast cell lineages in Drosophila melanogaster. Here, we describe the cloning and characterization of a human castor gene (CASZ1) that is structurally homologous to Drosophila castor. We find the expression of castor gene is increased when cells of neural origin as well as mesenchymal origin are induced to differentiation. CASZ1 is expressed in a number of normal tissues and exists in at least two mRNA species of 4.4 and 8.0kb. They are named hCasz5 and hCasz11 because the predicted proteins have 5 and 11 zinc fingers, respectively. Deletion analysis of the proximal 5'-flanking sequences delineates sequences sufficient to drive transcription in cells of neural and non-neural origin. Both hCasz5 and hCasz11 localize predominantly in the nucleus, consistent with their role as Zn-finger containing transcription factor. CASZ1 is expressed in a number of human tumors and localizes to a chromosomal region frequently lost in tumors of neuroectodermal origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Liu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Salihagic-Kadic A, Kurjak A, Medić M, Andonotopo W, Azumendi G. New data about embryonic and fetal neurodevelopment and behavior obtained by 3D and 4D sonography. J Perinat Med 2006; 33:478-90. [PMID: 16318610 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2005.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The development of the human central nervous system (CNS) begins in the early embryonic period and proceeds through a sequence of very complicated processes long after delivery. Although the neurodevelopmental processes are genetically determined, their complexity and intensity implicates the vulnerability of the CNS to number of environmental factors. There is substantial evidence to show that many neurological problems, from minor cerebral dysfunction to the cerebral palsy, originate form the prenatal, rather than perinatal or postnatal periods of life. A variety of neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases is nowadays considered to originate, at least partly, from the prenatal incidents. In most of these conditions, there is no reliable parameter for detection or prediction of cerebral lesions and there is an urgent need to develop strategies that would enable the early detection of cerebral lesions or indications that such lesions might occur. The new, advanced, imaging techniques such as 3-dimensional and 4-dimensional sonography, opened a new perspective for the investigation of structural and functional development of fetal CNS. The application of these techniques might improve our understanding of the prenatal neurodevelopmental events and possibly facilitate the development of diagnostic strategies for early detection or prevention of brain dysfunctions and damage.
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Prayer D, Kasprian G, Krampl E, Ulm B, Witzani L, Prayer L, Brugger PC. MRI of normal fetal brain development. Eur J Radiol 2006; 57:199-216. [PMID: 16413984 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2005.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2005] [Revised: 11/14/2005] [Accepted: 11/16/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Normal fetal brain maturation can be studied by in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from the 18th gestational week (GW) to term, and relies primarily on T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted (DW) sequences. These maturational changes must be interpreted with a knowledge of the histological background and the temporal course of the respective developmental steps. In addition, MR presentation of developing and transient structures must be considered. Signal changes associated with maturational processes can mainly be ascribed to the following changes in tissue composition and organization, which occur at the histological level: (1) a decrease in water content and increasing cell-density can be recognized as a shortening of T1- and T2-relaxation times, leading to increased T1-weighted and decreased T2-weighted intensity, respectively; (2) the arrangement of microanatomical structures to create a symmetrical or asymmetrical environment, leading to structural differences that may be demonstrated by DW-anisotropy; (3) changes in non-structural qualities, such as the onset of a membrane potential in premyelinating axons. The latter process also influences the appearance of a structure on DW sequences. Thus, we will review the in vivo MR appearance of different maturational states of the fetal brain and relate these maturational states to anatomical, histological, and in vitro MRI data. Then, the development of the cerebral cortex, white matter, temporal lobe, and cerebellum will be reviewed, and the MR appearance of transient structures of the fetal brain will be shown. Emphasis will be placed on the appearance of the different structures with the various sequences. In addition, the possible utility of dynamic fetal sequences in assessing spontaneous fetal movements is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Prayer
- Department of Radiodiagnostics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Mitchell LE. Epidemiology of neural tube defects. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2005; 135C:88-94. [PMID: 15800877 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.30057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiological investigation of the common open neural tube defects (NTDs), anencephaly, and spina bifida, has a long history. The most significant finding from these past studies of NTDs was the identification of the protective effect of maternal, periconceptional supplementation with folic acid. Fortuitously, the association between folic acid and NTDs became widely accepted in the early 1990s, at a time when genetic association studies of complex traits were becoming increasingly feasible. The confluence of these events has had a major impact on the direction of epidemiological, NTD research. Association studies to evaluate genes that may influence the risk of NTDs through their role in folate-related processes, or through other metabolic or developmental pathways are now commonplace. Moreover, the study of genetic as well as non-genetic, factors that may influence NTD risk through effects on the nutrient status of the mother or embryo has emerged as a major research focus. Research efforts over the past decade indicate that gene-gene, gene-environment, and higher-order interactions, as well as maternal genetic effects influence NTD risk, highlighting the complexity of the factors that underlie these conditions. The challenge for the future is to design studies that address these complexities, and are adequately powered to detect the factors or combination of factors that influence the development of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Mitchell
- Center for Environmental and Genetic Medicine, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
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Abstract
Spina bifida results from failure of fusion of the caudal neural tube, and is one of the most common malformations of human structure. The causes of this disorder are heterogeneous and include chromosome abnormalities, single gene disorders, and teratogenic exposures. However, the cause is not known in most cases. Up to 70% of spina bifida cases can be prevented by maternal, periconceptional folic acid supplementation. The mechanism underlying this protective effect is unknown, but it is likely to include genes that regulate folate transport and metabolism. Individuals with spina bifida need both surgical and medical management. Although surgical closure of the malformation is generally done in the neonatal period, a randomised clinical trial to assess in utero closure of spina bifida has been initiated in the USA. Medical management is a lifelong necessity for individuals with spina bifida, and should be provided by a multidisciplinary team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Mitchell
- Institute of Bioscience and Technology, The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, TX 77030-3303, USA.
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Weston JA, Yoshida H, Robinson V, Nishikawa S, Fraser ST, Nishikawa S. Neural crest and the origin of ectomesenchyme: neural fold heterogeneity suggests an alternative hypothesis. Dev Dyn 2004; 229:118-30. [PMID: 14699583 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.10478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The striking similarity between mesodermally derived fibroblasts and ectomesenchyme cells, which are thought to be derivatives of the neural crest, has long been a source of interest and controversy. In mice, the gene encoding the alpha subunit of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFRalpha) is expressed both by mesodermally derived mesenchymal cells and by ectomesenchyme. Whole-mount immunostaining previously revealed that PDGFRalpha is present in the cephalic neural fold epithelium of early murine embryos (Takakura et al. [1997] J Histochem Cytochem 45:883-893). We now show that, within the neural fold, a sharp boundary exists between E-cadherin-expressing non-neural epithelium and the neural epithelium of the dorsal ridge. In addition, we found that cells coexpressing E-cadherin and PDGFRalpha are present in the non-neural epithelium of the neural folds. These observations raise the possibility that at least some PDGFRalpha(+) ectomesenchyme originates from the lateral non-neural domain of neural fold epithelium. This inference is consistent with previous reports (Nichols [ 1981] J Embryol Exp Morphol 64:105-120; Nichols [ 1986] Am J Anat 176:221-231) that mesenchymal cells emerge precociously from an epithelial neural fold domain resembling the primitive streak in the early embryonic epiblast. Therefore, we propose the name "metablast" for this non-neural epithelial domain to indicate that it is the site of a delayed local delamination of mesenchyme similar to involution of mesoderm during gastrulation. We further propose the testable hypothesis that neural crest and ectomesenchyme are developmentally distinct progenitor populations and that at least some ectomesenchyme is metablast-derived rather than neural crest-derived tissue. Developmental Dynamics 229:118-130, 2004.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Weston
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA.
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DeSesso JM, Scialli AR, Holson JF. Apparent lability of neural tube closure in laboratory animals and humans. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 1999; 87:143-62. [PMID: 10533029 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1096-8628(19991119)87:2<143::aid-ajmg6>3.0.co;2-j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs), a set of structural abnormalities affecting the brain, spinal cord, and the skeletal and connective tissues that protect them, are common malformations among humans and laboratory animals. The embryogenesis of the neural tube is presented to convey the complexity of the phenomenon, the multiplicity of requisite cellular and subcellular processes, and the precise timing of events that must occur for successful neural tube development. Interruption, even transitory, of any of these intricate processes or disruption of an embryo's developmental schedule can lead to an NTD. The population distribution of human NTDs demonstrates that genetic predisposition functions in susceptibility to NTDs. Data from animal studies support these concepts. NTDs are common outcomes in developmental toxicity safety assessments, occurring among control and treated groups. Numerous agents have caused increased levels of NTDs in laboratory animals, and species with shorter gestational periods appear more prone to toxicant-induced NTDs than those with longer gestations. Data from post-implantation whole embryo culture, although not predictive of human risk, are useful in studying neurulation mechanisms and in demonstrating the importance of maintaining embryonic schedules of development. We conclude that the concept that NTDs are produced by only a few toxicants that selectively target the developing nervous system is untenable. Rather, the combination of the time in gestation that an agent is applied, its dose, and its ability to disrupt critical processes in neurulation leads to NTDs. We further conclude that, because of both the relatively high prevalence and the multifactorial nature of NTDs, the mere occurrence of an NTD is insufficient for inferring that the defect was caused by an exogenous agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M DeSesso
- Biomedical Research Institute, Mitretek Systems, McLean, Virginia 22102, USA.
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