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Castillo-Ordoñez WO, Cajas-Salazar N, Velasco-Reyes MA. Genetic and epigenetic targets of natural dietary compounds as anti-Alzheimer's agents. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:846-854. [PMID: 37843220 PMCID: PMC10664119 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.382232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia that principally affects older adults. Pathogenic factors, such as oxidative stress, an increase in acetylcholinesterase activity, mitochondrial dysfunction, genotoxicity, and neuroinflammation are present in this syndrome, which leads to neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease are considered late-onset diseases caused by the complex combination of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. There are two main types of Alzheimer's disease, known as familial Alzheimer's disease (onset < 65 years) and late-onset or sporadic Alzheimer's disease (onset ≥ 65 years). Patients with familial Alzheimer's disease inherit the disease due to rare mutations on the amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin 1 and 2 (PSEN1 and PSEN2) genes in an autosomal-dominantly fashion with closely 100% penetrance. In contrast, a different picture seems to emerge for sporadic Alzheimer's disease, which exhibits numerous non-Mendelian anomalies suggesting an epigenetic component in its etiology. Importantly, the fundamental pathophysiological mechanisms driving Alzheimer's disease are interfaced with epigenetic dysregulation. However, the dynamic nature of epigenetics seems to open up new avenues and hope in regenerative neurogenesis to improve brain repair in Alzheimer's disease or following injury or stroke in humans. In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in using natural products for the treatment of neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease. Through epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, histone modification, and chromatin conformation regulation, natural compounds appear to exert neuroprotective effects. While we do not purport to cover every in this work, we do attempt to illustrate how various phytochemical compounds regulate the epigenetic effects of a few Alzheimer's disease-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willian Orlando Castillo-Ordoñez
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales-Exactas y de la Educación, Departamento de Biología. Universidad del Cauca, Popayán-Cauca, Colombia
- Departamento de Estudios Psicológicos, Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia
| | - Nohelia Cajas-Salazar
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales-Exactas y de la Educación, Departamento de Biología. Universidad del Cauca, Popayán-Cauca, Colombia
| | - Mayra Alejandra Velasco-Reyes
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales-Exactas y de la Educación, Departamento de Biología. Universidad del Cauca, Popayán-Cauca, Colombia
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2
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The role of DNA methylation in progression of neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases as well as the prospect of using DNA methylation inhibitors as therapeutic agents for such disorders. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 14:28-37. [PMID: 36590248 PMCID: PMC9794904 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide studies related to neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases have pointed to the role of epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNAs. DNA methylation machinery controls the dynamic regulation of methylation patterns in discrete brain regions. Objective This review aims to describe the role of DNA methylation in inhibiting and progressing neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and therapeutic approaches. Methods A Systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was conducted for all qualified studies from 2000 to 2022. Results For the current need of time, we have focused on the DNA methylation role in neurological and neurodegenerative diseases and the expression of genes involved in neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's, Depression, and Rett Syndrome. Finally, it appears that the various epigenetic changes do not occur separately and that DNA methylation and histone modification changes occur side by side and affect each other. We focused on the role of modification of DNA methylation in several genes associated with depression (NR3C1, NR3C2, CRHR1, SLC6A4, BDNF, and FKBP5), Rett syndrome (MECP2), Alzheimer's, depression (APP, BACE1, BIN1 or ANK1) and Parkinson's disease (SNCA), as well as the co-occurring modifications to histones and expression of non-coding RNAs. Understanding these epigenetic changes and their interactions will lead to better treatment strategies. Conclusion This review captures the state of understanding of the epigenetics of neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. With new epigenetic mechanisms and targets undoubtedly on the horizon, pharmacological modulation and regulation of epigenetic processes in the brain holds great promise for therapy.
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mTOR and HDAC2 are simultaneously activated during electrically induced kindling of seizures. Epilepsy Res 2022; 185:106991. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Yu SY, Koh EJ, Kim SH, Song B, Lee JS, Son SW, Seo H, Hwang SY. Analysis of multi-omics data on the relationship between epigenetic changes and nervous system disorders caused by exposure to environmentally harmful substances. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:802-813. [PMID: 34921580 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Environmentally hazardous substances and exposure to these can cause various diseases. Volatile organic compounds can easily evaporate into the atmosphere, thereby exerting toxic effects through either the skin or respiratory tract exposures. Toluene, a neurotoxin, has been widely used in various industries. However, it has a detrimental effect on the nervous system (such as hallucinations or memory impairment), while data on the mechanism underlaying its harmful effects remain limited. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of toluene on the nervous system via epigenetic and genetic changes of toluene-exposed individuals. We identified significant epigenetic changes and confirmed that the affected abnormally expressed genes negatively influenced the nervous system. In particular, we confirmed that the miR-15 family, upregulated by toluene, downregulated ABL2, which could affect the R as signaling pathway resulting in neuronal structural abnormalities. Our study suggests that miR-15a-5p, miR-15b-5p, miR-16-5p, miR-301a-3p, and lncRNA NEAT1 may represent effective epigenomic markers associated with neurodegenerative diseases caused by toluene.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Yeon Yu
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Eun Jung Koh
- Department of Bionano Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Kim
- Department of Bionano Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Byeongwook Song
- Department of Molecular & Life Sciences, Center for Bionano Intelligence Education and Research, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Ji Su Lee
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Sang Wook Son
- Department of Dermatology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyemyung Seo
- Department of Molecular & Life Sciences, Center for Bionano Intelligence Education and Research, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
| | - Seung Yong Hwang
- Department of Molecular & Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
- Department of Applied Artificial Intelligence, Hanyang University, Ansan, South Korea
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Chen Z, Ding Y, Zeng Y, Zhang XP, Chen JY. Dexmedetomidine reduces propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury by modulating the miR-377-5p/Arc pathway. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 23:18. [PMID: 35337381 PMCID: PMC8957152 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-022-00555-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Propofol and dexmedetomidine (DEX) are widely used in general anesthesia, and exert toxic and protective effects on hippocampal neurons, respectively. The study sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms of DEX-mediated neuroprotection against propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury in mouse brains. METHODS Hippocampal neurons of mice and HT22 cells were treated with propofol, DEX, and propofol+DEX. In addition, transfection of miR-377-5p mimics or inhibitors was performed in HT22 cells. Neuronal apoptosis was evaluated by a means of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) or Hochest 33,258 staining; Arc positive expression in hippocampus tissues was detected using a microscope in immunohistochemistry assays; miRNA-377-5p expression was quantified by RT-qPCR; the protein levels of Arc, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B were determined using western blot; Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to detect the viability and apoptotic rate of the neurons; methylation analysis in the miR-377-5p promoter was performed through methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) assay; dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to confirm whether Arc was under targeted regulation of miR-377-5p. RESULTS In the current study, both in vitro and in vivo, propofol treatment induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis and suppressed cell viability. DNMT3A and DNMT3B expression levels were decreased following propofol treatment, resulting in lowered methylation in the miR-377-5p promoter region and then enhanced expression of miR-377-5p, leading to a decrease in the expression of downstream Arc. Conversely, the expression levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B were increased following DEX treatment, thus methylation in miR-377-5p promoter region was improved, and miR-377-5p expression was decreased, leading to an increase in the expression of downstream Arc. Eventually, DEX pretreatment protected hippocampal neurons against propofol-induced neurotoxicity by recovering the expression levels of DNMT3A, miR-377-5p, and Arc to the normal levels. Additionally, DNMT3A knockdown improved miR-377-5p expression but reduced Arc expression, and DNMT3A overexpression exerted the opposite effects. Dual luciferase reporter assay revealed a binding target between miR-377-5p and Arc 3'UTR. The neuroprotective effect of DEX against propofol-induced neuronal apoptosis was diminished after Arc knockdown. Silencing Arc independently triggered the apoptosis of HT22 cells, which was alleviated through transfection of miR-377-5p inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS DEX reduced propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury via the miR-377-5p/Arc signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yong Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Shajin Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xue-Ping Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen Anesthesiology Engineering Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, NO. 1017 Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Jian-Yan Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Shajin Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China.
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Hernaiz A, Sanz A, Sentre S, Ranera B, Lopez-Pérez O, Zaragoza P, Badiola JJ, Filali H, Bolea R, Toivonen JM, Martín-Burriel I. Genome-Wide Methylation Profiling in the Thalamus of Scrapie Sheep. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:824677. [PMID: 35252421 PMCID: PMC8888973 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.824677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Scrapie is a neurodegenerative disorder belonging to the group of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE). Scrapie occurs in sheep and goats, which are considered good natural animal models of these TSE. Changes in DNA methylation occur in the central nervous system (CNS) of patients suffering from prion-like neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Nevertheless, potential DNA methylation alterations have not yet been investigated in the CNS of any prion disease model or naturally infected cases, neither in humans nor in animals. Genome-wide DNA methylation patterns were studied in the thalamus obtained from sheep naturally infected with scrapie at a clinical stage (n = 4) and from controls (n = 4) by performing a whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) analysis. Ewes carried the scrapie-susceptible ARQ/ARQ PRNP genotype and were sacrificed at a similar age (4–6 years). Although the average genomic methylation levels were similar between the control and the scrapie animals, we identified 8,907 significant differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 39 promoters (DMPs). Gene Ontology analysis revealed that hypomethylated DMRs were enriched in genes involved in transmembrane transport and cell adhesion, whereas hypermethylated DMRs were related to intracellular signal transduction genes. Moreover, genes highly expressed in specific types of CNS cells and those previously described to be differentially expressed in scrapie brains contained DMRs. Finally, a quantitative PCR (qPCR) validation indicated differences in the expression of five genes (PCDH19, SNCG, WDR45B, PEX1, and CABIN1) that matched the methylation changes observed in the genomic study. Altogether, these results suggest a potential regulatory role of DNA methylation in prion neuropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaida Hernaiz
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Arianne Sanz
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Sentre
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Beatriz Ranera
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad San Jorge, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Oscar Lopez-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pilar Zaragoza
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Juan J. Badiola
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Hicham Filali
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rosa Bolea
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Janne M. Toivonen
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Martín-Burriel
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquímica (LAGENBIO), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Encefalopatías y Enfermedades Transmisibles Emergentes (CEETE), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza-IA2, IIS, Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Inmaculada Martín-Burriel
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Goel D, Srivastava A, Aledo-Serrano Á, Krishnan A, Vohora D. Pharmacotherapy for SARS-CoV-2 and Seizures for drug repurposing presumed on Mechanistic Targets. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 15:832-845. [PMID: 34645381 DOI: 10.2174/1874467214666211013122528] [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: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The currently circulating novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has brought the whole world to a standstill. Recent studies have deciphered the viral genome structure, epidemiology and are in the process of unveiling multiple mechanisms of pathogenesis. Apart from atypical pneumonia and lung disease manifestations, this disease has also been found to be associated with neurological symptoms, which include dizziness, headache, stroke, or seizures, among others. However, a possible direct or indirect association between SARS-CoV-2 and seizures is still not clear. In any manner, it may be of interest to analyze the drugs being used for viral infection in the background of epilepsy or vice versa. OBJECTIVE To identify the most credible drug candidate for COVID-19 in persons with epilepsy or COVID-19 patients experiencing seizures. METHODS A literature search for original and review articles was performed, and further, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database was used to unearth the most credible drug candidate. RESULTS Our search based on common mechanistic targets affecting SARS-CoV-2 and seizures revealed ivermectin, dexamethasone, anakinra, and tocilizumab for protection against both COVID-19 and seizures. Amongst the antiseizure medications, we found valproic acid as the most probable pharmacotherapy for COVID-19 patients experiencing seizures. CONCLUSION These findings would hopefully provide the basis for initiating further studies on the pathogenesis and drug targeting strategies for this emerging infection accompanied with seizures or in people with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Goel
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi. India
| | - Ankit Srivastava
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi. India
| | - Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid. Spain
| | - Anuja Krishnan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Interdisciplinary Sciences, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi. India
| | - Divya Vohora
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi. India
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Calió ML, Henriques E, Siena A, Bertoncini CRA, Gil-Mohapel J, Rosenstock TR. Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Neurogenesis, and Epigenetics: Putative Implications for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Neurodegeneration and Treatment. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:679. [PMID: 32760239 PMCID: PMC7373761 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and devastating multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder. Although the pathogenesis of ALS is still not completely understood, numerous studies suggest that mitochondrial deregulation may be implicated in its onset and progression. Interestingly, mitochondrial deregulation has also been associated with changes in neural stem cells (NSC) proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In this review, we highlight the importance of mitochondrial function for neurogenesis, and how both processes are correlated and may contribute to the pathogenesis of ALS; we have focused primarily on preclinical data from animal models of ALS, since to date no studies have evaluated this link using human samples. As there is currently no cure and no effective therapy to counteract ALS, we have also discussed how improving neurogenic function by epigenetic modulation could benefit ALS. In support of this hypothesis, changes in histone deacetylation can alter mitochondrial function, which in turn might ameliorate cellular proliferation as well as neuronal differentiation and migration. We propose that modulation of epigenetics, mitochondrial function, and neurogenesis might provide new hope for ALS patients, and studies exploring these new territories are warranted in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisandra Henriques
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda Siena
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clélia Rejane Antonio Bertoncini
- CEDEME, Center of Development of Experimental Models for Medicine and Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joana Gil-Mohapel
- Division of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Victoria and Island Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Tatiana Rosado Rosenstock
- Department of Physiological Science, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Science, São Paulo, Brazil
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Liu N, Zhang XL, Jiang SY, Shi JH, Cui JH, Liu XL, Han LH, Gong KR, Yan SC, Xie W, Zhang CY, Shao G. Neuroprotective mechanisms of DNA methyltransferase in a mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line after hypoxic preconditioning. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:2362-2368. [PMID: 32594061 PMCID: PMC7749487 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.285003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic preconditioning has been shown to improve hypoxic tolerance in mice, accompanied by the downregulation of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) in the brain. However, the roles played by DNMTs in the multiple neuroprotective mechanisms associated with hypoxic preconditioning remain poorly understood. This study aimed to establish an in vitro model of hypoxic preconditioning, using a cultured mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line (HT22 cells), to examine the effects of DNMTs on the endogenous neuroprotective mechanisms that occur during hypoxic preconditioning. HT22 cells were divided into a control group, which received no exposure to hypoxia, a hypoxia group, which was exposed to hypoxia once, and a hypoxic preconditioning group, which was exposed to four cycles of hypoxia. To test the ability of hypoxic preadaptation to induce hypoxic tolerance, cell viability was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5(3-carboxymethonyphenol)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium assay. Cell viability improved in the hypoxic preconditioning group compared with that in the hypoxia group. The effects of hypoxic preconditioning on the cell cycle and apoptosis in HT22 cells were examined by western blot assay and flow cytometry. Compared with the hypoxia group, the expression levels of caspase-3 and spectrin, which are markers of early apoptosis and S-phase arrest, respectively, noticeably reduced in the hypoxic preconditioning group. Finally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blot assay were used to investigate the changes in DNMT expression and activity during hypoxic preconditioning. The results showed that compared with the control group, hypoxic preconditioning downregulated the expression levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B mRNA and protein in HT22 cells and decreased the activities of total DNMTs and DNMT3B. In conclusion, hypoxic preconditioning may exert anti-hypoxic neuroprotective effects, maintaining HT22 cell viability and inhibiting cell apoptosis. These neuroprotective mechanisms may be associated with the inhibition of DNMT3A and DNMT3B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Liu
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region; Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Lu Zhang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region; Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Yuan Jiang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jing-Hua Shi
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jun-He Cui
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Xiao-Lei Liu
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Li-Hong Han
- Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Ke-Rui Gong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California San Francsico, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shao-Chun Yan
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region; Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chun-Yang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
| | - Guo Shao
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Translational Medicine; Biomedicine Research Center, Basic Medical College and Baotou Medical College of Neuroscience Institute, Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region; Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypoxic Conditioning Translational Medicine, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing; Department of Neurosurgery, the First Affiliated Hospital of Baotou Medical College, Baotou, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region,, China
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Bjørklund G, Skalny AV, Rahman MM, Dadar M, Yassa HA, Aaseth J, Chirumbolo S, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Toxic metal(loid)-based pollutants and their possible role in autism spectrum disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 166:234-250. [PMID: 29902778 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and stereotypic behaviors. Many studies support a significant relationship between many different environmental factors in ASD etiology. These factors include increased daily exposure to various toxic metal-based environmental pollutants, which represent a cause for concern in public health. This article reviews the most relevant toxic metals, commonly found, environmental pollutants, i.e., lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), and the metalloid arsenic (As). Additionally, it discusses how pollutants can be a possible pathogenetic cause of ASD through various mechanisms including neuroinflammation in different regions of the brain, fundamentally occurring through elevation of the proinflammatory profile of cytokines and aberrant expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Due to the worldwide increase in toxic environmental pollution, studies on the role of pollutants in neurodevelopmental disorders, including direct effects on the developing brain and the subjects' genetic susceptibility and polymorphism, are of utmost importance to achieve the best therapeutic approach and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Anatoly V Skalny
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia; All-Russian Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Moscow, Russia
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Heba A Yassa
- Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway; Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia
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11
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Myers A, du Souich C, Yang CL, Borovik L, Mwenifumbo J, Rupps R, Study C, Lehman A, Boerkoel CF. FOXP1 haploinsufficiency: Phenotypes beyond behavior and intellectual disability? Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:3172-3181. [PMID: 28884888 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The forkhead box (FOX) transcription factors have roles in development, carcinogenesis, metabolism, and immunity. In humans FOXP1 mutations have been associated with language and speech defects, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, facial dysmorphisms, and congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract. In mice, Foxp1 plays critical roles in development of the spinal motor neurons, lymphocytes, cardiomyocytes, foregut, and skeleton. We hypothesized therefore that mutations of FOXP1 affect additional tissues in some humans. Supporting this hypothesis, we describe two individuals with novel variants of FOXP1 (NM_032682.5:c.975-2A>C and NM_032682.5:c.1574G>A) and additional features. One had a lung disease resembling neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI), and the second had a skeletal disorder with undertubulation of the long bones and relapsing-remitting fevers associated with flushing and edema. Although attribution of these traits to mutation of FOXP1 requires ascertainment of additional patients, we hypothesize that the variable expression of these additional features might arise by means of stochastic developmental variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Myers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Dakota and Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Christèle du Souich
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Connie L Yang
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, and Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lior Borovik
- Department of Genetic Counseling, Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
| | - Jill Mwenifumbo
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rosemarie Rupps
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Causes Study
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cornelius F Boerkoel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of South Dakota and Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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12
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Itokazu Y, Tsai YT, Yu RK. Epigenetic regulation of ganglioside expression in neural stem cells and neuronal cells. Glycoconj J 2016; 34:749-756. [PMID: 27540730 DOI: 10.1007/s10719-016-9719-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The structural diversity and localization of cell surface glycosphingolipids (GSLs), including gangliosides, in glycolipid-enriched microdomains (GEMs, also known as lipid rafts) render them ideally suited to play important roles in mediating intercellular recognition, interactions, adhesion, receptor function, and signaling. Gangliosides, sialic acid-containing GSLs, are most abundant in the nerve tissues. The quantity and expression pattern of gangliosides in brain change drastically throughout development and these changes are mainly regulated through stage-specific expression of glycosyltransferase genes. We previously demonstrated for the first time that efficient histone acetylation of the glycosyltransferase genes in mouse brain contributes to the developmental alteration of ganglioside expression. We further demonstrated that acetylation of histones H3 and H4 on the N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase I (GalNAcT, GA2/GM2/GD2/GT2-synthase; B4galnt1) gene promoter resulted in recruitment of trans-activation factors. In addition, we showed that epigenetic activation of the GalNAcT gene was detected and accompanied by an apparent induction of neuronal differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) responding to an exogenous supplement of ganglioside GM1. Most recently, we found that nuclear GM1 binds with acetylated histones on the promoters of the GalNAcT as well as on the NeuroD1 genes in differentiated neurons. Here, we will introduce epigenetic regulation of ganglioside synthase genes in neural development and neuronal differentiation of NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Itokazu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.,Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA
| | - Yi-Tzang Tsai
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.,Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA
| | - Robert K Yu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA. .,Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA.
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13
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Ausió J. MeCP2 and the enigmatic organization of brain chromatin. Implications for depression and cocaine addiction. Clin Epigenetics 2016; 8:58. [PMID: 27213019 PMCID: PMC4875624 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-016-0214-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a highly abundant chromosomal protein within the brain. It is hence not surprising that perturbations in its genome-wide distribution, and at particular loci within this tissue, can result in widespread neurological disorders that transcend the early implications of this protein in Rett syndrome (RTT). Yet, the details of its role and involvement in chromatin organization are still poorly understood. This paper focuses on what is known to date about all of this with special emphasis on the relation to different epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone acetylation/ubiquitination, MeCP2 phosphorylation and miRNA). We showcase all of the above in two particular important neurological functional alterations in the brain: depression (major depressive disorder [MDD]) and cocaine addiction, both of which affect the MeCP2 homeostasis and result in significant changes in the overall levels of these epigenetic marks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Ausió
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 3P6 Canada
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14
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Maduro V, Pusey BN, Cherukuri PF, Atkins P, du Souich C, Rupps R, Limbos M, Adams DR, Bhatt SS, Eydoux P, Links AE, Lehman A, Malicdan MC, Mason CE, Morimoto M, Mullikin JC, Sear A, Van Karnebeek C, Stankiewicz P, Gahl WA, Toro C, Boerkoel CF. Complex translocation disrupting TCF4 and altering TCF4 isoform expression segregates as mild autosomal dominant intellectual disability. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2016; 11:62. [PMID: 27179618 PMCID: PMC4868023 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-016-0439-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mutations of TCF4, which encodes a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, cause Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) via multiple genetic mechanisms. TCF4 is a complex locus expressing multiple transcripts by alternative splicing and use of multiple promoters. To address the relationship between mutation of these transcripts and phenotype, we report a three-generation family segregating mild intellectual disability with a chromosomal translocation disrupting TCF4. RESULTS Using whole genome sequencing, we detected a complex unbalanced karyotype disrupting TCF4 (46,XY,del(14)(q23.3q23.3)del(18)(q21.2q21.2)del(18)(q21.2q21.2)inv(18)(q21.2q21.2)t(14;18)(q23.3;q21.2)(14pter®14q23.3::18q21.2®18q21.2::18q21.1®18qter;18pter®18q21.2::14q23.3®14qter). Subsequent transcriptome sequencing, qRT-PCR and nCounter analyses revealed that cultured skin fibroblasts and peripheral blood had normal expression of genes along chromosomes 14 or 18 and no marked changes in expression of genes other than TCF4. Affected individuals had 12-33 fold higher mRNA levels of TCF4 than did unaffected controls or individuals with PTHS. Although the derivative chromosome generated a PLEKHG3-TCF4 fusion transcript, the increased levels of TCF4 mRNA arose from transcript variants originating distal to the translocation breakpoint, not from the fusion transcript. CONCLUSIONS Although validation in additional patients is required, our findings suggest that the dysmorphic features and severe intellectual disability characteristic of PTHS are partially rescued by overexpression of those short TCF4 transcripts encoding a nuclear localization signal, a transcription activation domain, and the basic helix-loop-helix domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Maduro
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Barbara N Pusey
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Praveen F Cherukuri
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Paul Atkins
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christèle du Souich
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rosemarie Rupps
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - David R Adams
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Samarth S Bhatt
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Patrice Eydoux
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Amanda E Links
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anna Lehman
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - May C Malicdan
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christopher E Mason
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- The HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud Institute for Computational Biomedicine, New York, NY, USA
- The Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute (BMRI), New York, NY, USA
| | - Marie Morimoto
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - James C Mullikin
- NIH Intramural Sequencing Center, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew Sear
- Department of General Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Clara Van Karnebeek
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pawel Stankiewicz
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William A Gahl
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NHGRI, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Camilo Toro
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cornelius F Boerkoel
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Children's and Women's Health Centre of BC, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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15
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Changes in Methionine Metabolism and Histone H3 Trimethylation Are Linked to Mitochondrial Defects in Multiple Sclerosis. J Neurosci 2016; 35:15170-86. [PMID: 26558787 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4349-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Mitochondrial changes, including decreased expression of electron transport chain subunit genes and impaired energetic, have been reported in multiple sclerosis (MS), but the mechanisms involved in these changes are not clear. To determine whether epigenetic mechanisms are involved, we measured the concentrations of methionine metabolites by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, histone H3 methylation patterns, and markers of mitochondrial respiration in gray matter from postmortem MS and control cortical samples. We found decreases in respiratory markers as well as decreased concentrations of the methionine metabolites S-adenosylmethionine, betaine, and cystathionine in MS gray matter. We also found expression of the enzyme betaine homocysteine methyltransferase in cortical neurons. This enzyme catalyzes the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine, with betaine as the methyl donor, and has previously been thought to be restricted to liver and kidney in the adult human. Decreases in the concentration of the methyl donor betaine were correlated with decreases in histone H3 trimethylation (H3K4me3) in NeuN+ neuronal nuclei in MS cortex compared with controls. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that H3K4me3 levels and mitochondrial respiration were reduced in SH-SY5Y cells after exposure to the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside, and betaine was able to rescue H3K4me3 levels and respiratory capacity in these cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments showed that betaine regulates metabolic genes in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. These data suggest that changes to methionine metabolism may be mechanistically linked to changes in neuronal energetics in MS cortex. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT For decades, it has been observed that vitamin B12 deficiency and multiple sclerosis (MS) share certain pathological changes, including conduction disturbances. In the present study, we have found that vitamin B12-dependent methionine metabolism is dysregulated in the MS brain. We found that concentrations of the methyl donor betaine are decreased in MS cortex and are correlated with reduced levels of the histone H3 methyl mark H3K4me3 in neurons. Cell culture and chromatin immunoprecipitation-seq data suggest that these changes may lead to defects in mitochondria and impact neuronal energetics. These data have uncovered a novel pathway linking methionine metabolism with mitochondrial respiration and have important implications for understanding mechanisms involved in neurodegeneration in MS.
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16
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Abstract
The transfer of genetic information from RNA to DNA is considered an extraordinary process in molecular biology. Despite the fact that cells transcribe abundant amount of RNA with a wide range of functions, it has been difficult to uncover whether RNA can serve as a template for DNA repair and recombination. An increasing number of experimental evidences suggest a direct role of RNA in DNA modification. Recently, we demonstrated that endogenous transcript RNA can serve as a template to repair a DNA double-strand break (DSB), the most harmful DNA lesion, not only indirectly via formation of a DNA copy (cDNA) intermediate, but also directly in a homology driven mechanism in budding yeast. These results point out that the transfer of genetic information from RNA to DNA is more general than previously thought. We found that transcript RNA is more efficient in repairing a DSB in its own DNA (in cis) than in a homologous but ectopic locus (in trans). Here, we summarize current knowledge about the process of RNA-driven DNA repair and recombination, and provide further data in support of our model of DSB repair by transcript RNA in cis. We show that a DSB is precisely repaired predominately by transcript RNA and not by residual cDNA in conditions in which formation of cDNA by reverse transcription is inhibited. Additionally, we demonstrate that defects in ribonuclease (RNase) H stimulate precise DSB repair by homologous RNA or cDNA sequence, and not by homologous DNA sequence carried on a plasmid. These results highlight an antagonistic role of RNase H in RNA-DNA recombination. Ultimately, we discuss several questions that should be addressed to better understand mechanisms and implications of RNA-templated DNA repair and recombination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Havva Keskin
- a School of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Chance Meers
- a School of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
| | - Francesca Storici
- a School of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta , Georgia , USA
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17
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Epigenetic Research of Neurodegenerative Disorders Using Patient iPSC-Based Models. Stem Cells Int 2015; 2016:9464591. [PMID: 26697081 PMCID: PMC4677257 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9464591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms play a role in human disease but their involvement in pathologies from the central nervous system has been hampered by the complexity of the brain together with its unique cellular architecture and diversity. Until recently, disease targeted neural types were only available as postmortem materials after many years of disease evolution. Current in vitro systems of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) generated by cell reprogramming of somatic cells from patients have provided valuable disease models recapitulating key pathological molecular events. Yet whether cell reprogramming on itself implies a truly epigenetic reprogramming, the epigenetic mechanisms governing this process are only partially understood. Moreover, elucidating epigenetic regulation using patient-specific iPSC-derived neural models is expected to have a great impact to unravel the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases and to hopefully expand future therapeutic possibilities. Here we will critically review current knowledge of epigenetic involvement in neurodegenerative disorders focusing on the potential of iPSCs as a promising tool for epigenetic research of these diseases.
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18
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Tsai YT, Itokazu Y, Yu RK. GM1 Ganglioside is Involved in Epigenetic Activation Loci of Neuronal Cells. Neurochem Res 2015; 41:107-15. [PMID: 26498762 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-015-1742-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 10/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Gangliosides are sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids that are most abundant in the nerve tissues. The quantity and expression pattern of gangliosides in brain change drastically throughout development and are mainly regulated through stage-specific expression of glycosyltransferase (ganglioside synthase) genes. We previously demonstrated that acetylation of histones H3 and H4 on the N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase I (GalNAcT, GA2/GM2/GD2/GT2-synthase) gene promoter resulted in recruitment of trans-activation factors. In addition, we reported that epigenetic activation of the GalNAcT gene was also detected as accompanied by an apparent induction of neuronal differentiation in neural stem cells responding to an exogenous supplement of ganglioside GM1. Here, we present evidence supporting the concept that nuclear GM1 is associated with gene regulation in neuronal cells. We found that nuclear GM1 binds acetylated histones on the promoters of the GalNAcT and NeuroD1 genes in differentiated neurons. Our study demonstrates for the first time that GM1 interacts with chromatin via acetylated histones at the nuclear periphery of neuronal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Tzang Tsai
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA
| | - Yutaka Itokazu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA
| | - Robert K Yu
- Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
- Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30904, USA.
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19
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Millan MJ, Goodwin GM, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Ögren SO, Ögren SO. 60 years of advances in neuropsychopharmacology for improving brain health, renewed hope for progress. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:591-8. [PMID: 25799919 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy is effective in helping many patients suffering from psychiatric and neurological disorders, and both psychotherapeutic and stimulation-based techniques likewise have important roles to play in their treatment. However, therapeutic progress has recently been slow. Future success for improving the control and prevention of brain disorders will depend upon deeper insights into their causes and pathophysiological substrates. It will also necessitate new and more rigorous methods for identifying, validating, developing and clinically deploying new treatments. A field of Research and Development (R and D) that remains critical to this endeavour is Neuropsychopharmacology which transformed the lives of patients by introducing pharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorder some 60 years ago. For about half of this time, the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) has fostered efforts to enhance our understanding of the brain, and to improve the management of psychiatric disorders. Further, together with partners in academia and industry, and in discussions with regulators and patients, the ECNP is implicated in new initiatives to achieve this goal. This is then an opportune moment to survey the field, to analyse what we have learned from the achievements and failures of the past, and to identify major challenges for the future. It is also important to highlight strategies that are being put in place in the quest for more effective treatment of brain disorders: from experimental research and drug discovery to clinical development and collaborative ventures for reinforcing "R and D". The present article sets the scene, then introduces and interlinks the eight articles that comprise this Special Volume of European Neuropsychopharmacology. A broad-based suite of themes is covered embracing: the past, present and future of "R and D" for psychiatric disorders; complementary contributions of genetics and epigenetics; efforts to improve the treatment of depression, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders; and advances in the analysis and neuroimaging of cellular and cerebral circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Millan
- Pole for Innovation in Neurosciences, IDR Servier, 125 chemin de ronde, 78290 Croissy sur Seine, France.
| | - Guy M Goodwin
- University Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, England
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg/Medical Faculty Mannheim, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sven Ove Ögren
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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Millan MJ, Goodwin GM, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Ove Ögren S. Learning from the past and looking to the future: Emerging perspectives for improving the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2015; 25:599-656. [PMID: 25836356 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2015.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Modern neuropsychopharmacology commenced in the 1950s with the serendipitous discovery of first-generation antipsychotics and antidepressants which were therapeutically effective yet had marked adverse effects. Today, a broader palette of safer and better-tolerated agents is available for helping people that suffer from schizophrenia, depression and other psychiatric disorders, while complementary approaches like psychotherapy also have important roles to play in their treatment, both alone and in association with medication. Nonetheless, despite considerable efforts, current management is still only partially effective, and highly-prevalent psychiatric disorders of the brain continue to represent a huge personal and socio-economic burden. The lack of success in discovering more effective pharmacotherapy has contributed, together with many other factors, to a relative disengagement by pharmaceutical firms from neuropsychiatry. Nonetheless, interest remains high, and partnerships are proliferating with academic centres which are increasingly integrating drug discovery and translational research into their traditional activities. This is, then, a time of transition and an opportune moment to thoroughly survey the field. Accordingly, the present paper, first, chronicles the discovery and development of psychotropic agents, focusing in particular on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic utility, and how problems faced were eventually overcome. Second, it discusses the lessons learned from past successes and failures, and how they are being applied to promote future progress. Third, it comprehensively surveys emerging strategies that are (1), improving our understanding of the diagnosis and classification of psychiatric disorders; (2), deepening knowledge of their underlying risk factors and pathophysiological substrates; (3), refining cellular and animal models for discovery and validation of novel therapeutic agents; (4), improving the design and outcome of clinical trials; (5), moving towards reliable biomarkers of patient subpopulations and medication efficacy and (6), promoting collaborative approaches to innovation by uniting key partners from the regulators, industry and academia to patients. Notwithstanding the challenges ahead, the many changes and ideas articulated herein provide new hope and something of a framework for progress towards the improved prevention and relief of psychiatric and other CNS disorders, an urgent mission for our Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Millan
- Pole for Innovation in Neurosciences, IDR Servier, 125 chemin de ronde, 78290 Croissy sur Seine, France.
| | - Guy M Goodwin
- University Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Warneford Hospital, Oxford OX3 7JX, England, UK
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Central Institute of Mental Health, University of Heidelberg/Medical Faculty Mannheim, J5, D-68159 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sven Ove Ögren
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Retzius väg 8, S-17177 Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Rasool M, Malik A, Naseer MI, Manan A, Ansari SA, Begum I, Qazi MH, Pushparaj PN, Abuzenadah AM, Al-Qahtani MH, Kamal MA, Natesan Pushparaj P, Gan SH. The role of epigenetics in personalized medicine: challenges and opportunities. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8 Suppl 1:S5. [PMID: 25951941 PMCID: PMC4315318 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-8-s1-s5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic alterations are considered to be very influential in both the normal and disease states of an organism. These alterations include methylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and ubiquitylation of DNA and histone proteins (nucleosomes) as well as chromatin remodeling. Many diseases, such as cancers and neurodegenerative disorders, are often associated with epigenetic alterations. DNA methylation is one important modification that leads to disease. Standard therapies are given to patients; however, few patients respond to these drugs, because of various molecular alterations in their cells, which may be partially due to genetic heterogeneity and epigenetic alterations. To realize the promise of personalized medicine, both genetic and epigenetic diagnostic testing will be required. This review will discuss the advances that have been made as well as the challenges for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood Rasool
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Arif Malik
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, (IMBB), the University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran Naseer
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul Manan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, (IMBB), the University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shakeel Ahmed Ansari
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Irshad Begum
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, (IMBB), the University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mahmood Husain Qazi
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine (CRiMM), The University of Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel M Abuzenadah
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammad Amjad Kamal
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research (CEGMR), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Siew Hua Gan
- Human Genome Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
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22
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Ma Q, Zhang L. Epigenetic programming of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in response to fetal hypoxia. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 124:28-48. [PMID: 25450949 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Revised: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxia is a major stress to the fetal development and may result in irreversible injury in the developing brain, increased risk of central nervous system (CNS) malformations in the neonatal brain and long-term neurological complications in offspring. Current evidence indicates that epigenetic mechanisms may contribute to the development of hypoxic/ischemic-sensitive phenotype in the developing brain in response to fetal stress. However, the causative cellular and molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In the present review, we summarize the recent findings of epigenetic mechanisms in the development of the brain and their roles in fetal hypoxia-induced brain developmental malformations. Specifically, we focus on DNA methylation and active demethylation, histone modifications and microRNAs in the regulation of neuronal and vascular developmental plasticity, which may play a role in fetal stress-induced epigenetic programming of hypoxic/ischemic-sensitive phenotype in the developing brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyi Ma
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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23
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Ma Q, Xiong F, Zhang L. Gestational hypoxia and epigenetic programming of brain development disorders. Drug Discov Today 2014; 19:1883-96. [PMID: 25256780 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2014.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Adverse environmental conditions faced by an individual early during its life, such as gestational hypoxia, can have a profound influence on the risk of diseases, such as neurological disorders, in later life. Clinical and preclinical studies suggest that epigenetic programming of gene expression patterns in response to maternal stress have a crucial role in the fetal origins of neurological diseases. Herein, we summarize recent studies regarding the role of epigenetic mechanisms in the developmental programming of neurological diseases in offspring, primarily focusing on DNA methylation/demethylation and miRNAs. Such information could increase our understanding of the fetal origins of adult diseases and help develop effective prevention and intervention against neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyi Ma
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Fuxia Xiong
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Lubo Zhang
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Division of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
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24
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Shehata L, Simeonov DR, Raams A, Wolfe L, Vanderver A, Li X, Huang Y, Garner S, Boerkoel CF, Thurm A, Herman GE, Tifft CJ, He M, Jaspers NGJ, Gahl WA. ERCC6 dysfunction presenting as progressive neurological decline with brain hypomyelination. Am J Med Genet A 2014; 164A:2892-900. [PMID: 25251875 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.36709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in ERCC6 are associated with growth failure, intellectual disability, neurological dysfunction and deterioration, premature aging, and photosensitivity. We describe siblings with biallelic ERCC6 mutations (NM_000124.2:c. [543+4delA];[2008C>T]) and brain hypomyelination, microcephaly, cognitive decline, and skill regression but without photosensitivity or progeria. DNA repair assays on cultured skin fibroblasts confirmed a defect of transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair and increased ultraviolet light sensitivity. This report expands the disease spectrum associated with ERCC6 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Shehata
- NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program, Common Fund, Office of the Director, NIH and National Human Genome Research Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
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25
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Shi HB, Tang B, Liu YW, Wang XF, Chen GJ. Alzheimer disease and cancer risk: a meta-analysis. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2014; 141:485-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s00432-014-1773-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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26
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Chen X, Du Z, Shi W, Wang C, Yang Y, Wang F, Yao Y, He K, Hao A. 2-Bromopalmitate modulates neuronal differentiation through the regulation of histone acetylation. Stem Cell Res 2014; 12:481-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2013.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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27
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Vaiopoulou A, Karamanolis G, Psaltopoulou T, Karatzias G, Gazouli M. Molecular basis of the irritable bowel syndrome. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:376-83. [PMID: 24574707 PMCID: PMC3923013 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i2.376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder characterized by abdominal pain, discomfort and bloating. The pathophysiology of IBS is poorly understood, but the presence of psychosocial basis is now known. There is an increasing number of publications supporting the role of genetics in IBS. Most of the variations are found in genes associated with the brain-gut axis, revealing the strong correlation of brain-gut axis and IBS. miRNAs, which play critical roles in physiological processes, are not well studied in IBS. However, so far there is found an involvement of alterations in miRNA expression or sequence, in IBS symptoms. IBS phenotype is affected by epigenetic alteration and environment. Changes in DNA and histone methylation are observed in patients who suffered childhood trauma or abuse, resulting in altered gene expression, such as the glucocorticoid receptor gene. Finally, diet is another factor associated with IBS, which may contribute to symptom onset. Certain foods may affect on bacterial metabolism and epigenetic modifications, predisposing to IBS.
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28
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Cadet JL, Jayanthi S, McCoy MT, Ladenheim B, Saint-Preux F, Lehrmann E, De S, Becker KG, Brannock C. Genome-wide profiling identifies a subset of methamphetamine (METH)-induced genes associated with METH-induced increased H4K5Ac binding in the rat striatum. BMC Genomics 2013; 14:545. [PMID: 23937714 PMCID: PMC3751638 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND METH is an illicit drug of abuse that influences gene expression in the rat striatum. Histone modifications regulate gene transcription. METHODS We therefore used microarray analysis and genome-scale approaches to examine potential relationships between the effects of METH on gene expression and on DNA binding of histone H4 acetylated at lysine 4 (H4K5Ac) in the rat dorsal striatum of METH-naïve and METH-pretreated rats. RESULTS Acute and chronic METH administration caused differential changes in striatal gene expression. METH also increased H4K5Ac binding around the transcriptional start sites (TSSs) of genes in the rat striatum. In order to relate gene expression to histone acetylation, we binned genes of similar expression into groups of 100 genes and proceeded to relate gene expression to H4K5Ac binding. We found a positive correlation between gene expression and H4K5Ac binding in the striatum of control rats. Similar correlations were observed in METH-treated rats. Genes that showed acute METH-induced increased expression in saline-pretreated rats also showed METH-induced increased H4K5Ac binding. The acute METH injection caused similar increases in H4K5Ac binding in METH-pretreated rats, without affecting gene expression to the same degree. Finally, genes that showed METH-induced decreased expression exhibited either decreases or no changes in H4K5Ac binding. CONCLUSION Acute METH injections caused increased gene expression of genes that showed increased H4K5Ac binding near their transcription start sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, DHHS/NIH/NIDA Intramural Research Program, 251 Bayview Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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29
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Ronan JL, Wu W, Crabtree GR. From neural development to cognition: unexpected roles for chromatin. Nat Rev Genet 2013; 14:347-59. [PMID: 23568486 PMCID: PMC4010428 DOI: 10.1038/nrg3413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 341] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Recent genome-sequencing studies in human neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders have uncovered mutations in many chromatin regulators. These human genetic studies, along with studies in model organisms, are providing insight into chromatin regulatory mechanisms in neural development and how alterations to these mechanisms can cause cognitive deficits, such as intellectual disability. We discuss several implicated chromatin regulators, including BAF (also known as SWI/SNF) and CHD8 chromatin remodellers, HDAC4 and the Polycomb component EZH2. Interestingly, mutations in EZH2 and certain BAF complex components have roles in both neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer, and overlapping point mutations are suggesting functionally important residues and domains. We speculate on the contribution of these similar mutations to disparate disorders.
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30
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Essex MJ, Boyce WT, Hertzman C, Lam LL, Armstrong JM, Neumann SMA, Kobor MS. Epigenetic vestiges of early developmental adversity: childhood stress exposure and DNA methylation in adolescence. Child Dev 2013; 84:58-75. [PMID: 21883162 PMCID: PMC3235257 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8624.2011.01641.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 338] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Fifteen-year-old adolescents (N = 109) in a longitudinal study of child development were recruited to examine differences in DNA methylation in relation to parent reports of adversity during the adolescents' infancy and preschool periods. Microarray technology applied to 28,000 cytosine-guanine dinucleotide sites within DNA derived from buccal epithelial cells showed differential methylation among adolescents whose parents reported high levels of stress during their children's early lives. Maternal stressors in infancy and paternal stressors in the preschool years were most strongly predictive of differential methylation, and the patterning of such epigenetic marks varied by children's gender. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of prospective associations between adversities in early childhood and the epigenetic conformation of adolescents' genomic DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn J Essex
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
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31
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Abstract
Mis-regulation of gene expression due to epigenetic abnormalities has been linked with complex genetic disorders, psychiatric illness, and cancer. In addition, the dynamic epigenetic changes that occur in pluripotent stem cells are believed to impact regulatory networks essential for proper lineage development. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is a technique used to enrich genomic fragments using antibodies against specific chromatin modifications, such as DNA-binding proteins or modified histones. Until recently, many ChIP protocols required large numbers of cells for each immunoprecipitation. This severely limited analysis of rare cell populations or post-mitotic, differentiated cell lines. Here, we describe a low cell number ChIP protocol with next generation sequencing and analysis that has the potential to uncover novel epigenetic regulatory pathways that were previously difficult or impossible to obtain.
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32
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Zillner K, Németh A. Single-molecule, genome-scale analyses of DNA modifications: exposing the epigenome with next-generation technologies. Epigenomics 2012; 4:403-14. [PMID: 22920180 DOI: 10.2217/epi.12.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA modifications represent an integral part of the epigenome and they have a pivotal role in regulation of genome function. Despite the wide variety of analytical techniques that have been developed to detect DNA modifications, their investigation at the single-genome level is only beginning to emerge. In contrast to population-averaged analyses, single-molecule approaches potentially allow the mapping of epigenetic linkage between distantly located genomic regions, the locus-specific analysis of repetitive DNA elements, as well as determination of allele-specific DNA modification patterns. In this article, the properties of current single-molecule analyses of DNA modifications will be discussed and compared. In addition, the possible biomedical and discovery research applications of single-molecule epigenomics will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Zillner
- Biochemistry Center Regensburg, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstrasse 31, D-93053, Regensburg, Germany
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33
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Kobow K, Auvin S, Jensen F, Löscher W, Mody I, Potschka H, Prince D, Sierra A, Simonato M, Pitkänen A, Nehlig A, Rho JM. Finding a better drug for epilepsy: antiepileptogenesis targets. Epilepsia 2012; 53:1868-76. [PMID: 23061663 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2012.03716.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
For several decades, both in vitro and in vivo models of seizures and epilepsy have been employed to unravel the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS)-the defining hallmark of the epileptic brain. However, despite great advances in our understanding of seizure genesis, investigators have yet to develop reliable biomarkers and surrogate markers of the epileptogenic process. Sadly, the pathogenic mechanisms that produce the epileptic condition, especially after precipitating events such as head trauma, inflammation, or prolonged febrile convulsions, are poorly understood. A major challenge has been the inherent complexity and heterogeneity of known epileptic syndromes and the differential genetic susceptibilities exhibited by patients at risk. Therefore, it is unlikely that there is only one fundamental pathophysiologic mechanism shared by all the epilepsies. Identification of antiepileptogenesis targets has been an overarching goal over the last decade, as current anticonvulsant medications appear to influence only the acute process of ictogenesis. Clearly, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic interventions that are disease modifying-therapies that either completely or partially prevent the emergence of SRS. An important secondary goal is to develop new treatments that can also lessen the burden of epilepsy comorbidities (e.g., cognitive impairment, mood disorders) by preventing or reducing the deleterious changes during the epileptogenic process. This review summarizes novel antiepileptogenesis targets that were critically discussed at the XIth Workshop on the Neurobiology of Epilepsy (WONOEP XI) meeting in Grottaferrata, Italy. Further, emerging neurometabolic links among several target mechanisms and highlights of the panel discussion are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Kobow
- Department of Neuropathology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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34
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Pochon S. 64th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology. Pharmaceut Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03262375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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35
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Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms control gene expression in a way that is stably propagated over multiple cell divisions, but which is also flexible enough to respond to environmental influences. This intermediate position between stability and plasticity renders epigenetic information highly useful for monitoring cellular states in the context of personalized medicine. Epigenetic alterations have also been identified as causal events for common diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. The goal of epigenetic biomarker development is to design experimental assays that produce relevant information for diagnosis, prognosis and therapy optimization in routine clinical treatment and drug discovery. Here, I outline a systematic approach to epigenetic biomarker development and highlight key bioinformatic tools that facilitate discovery, optimization and validation of novel biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Bock
- Max-Planck-Institut für Informatik, Saarbrücken, Germany.
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36
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Pastori C, Wahlestedt C. Involvement of long noncoding RNAs in diseases affecting the central nervous system. RNA Biol 2012; 9:860-70. [PMID: 22699553 PMCID: PMC3495748 DOI: 10.4161/rna.20482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA sequences associated with protein-coding genes have been the primary focus of most genetic analyses of complex human diseases. Although we are rapidly gaining a comprehensive view of the etiology of certain central nervous system disorders, major gaps in our understanding persist. Recent studies have uncovered that many human genomic sequences are transcribed but not translated, generating an astounding diversity of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). This awareness should be taken into account when studying human diseases and may have profound implications on the development of novel biomarkers as well as therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pastori
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Center for Therapeutic Innovation, Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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37
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Stiles J. The effects of injury to dynamic neural networks in the mature and developing brain. Dev Psychobiol 2012; 54:343-9. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.20628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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38
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Kaliszewska A, De Jager PL. Exploring the role of the epigenome in multiple sclerosis: a window onto cell-specific transcriptional potential. J Neuroimmunol 2012; 248:2-9. [PMID: 22297167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2011.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Accepted: 12/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The field of epigenomics involves the study of chromatin, the three dimensional complex of DNA, protein and non-coding RNAs that determines the accessibility of DNA by the transcriptional machinery. The epigenome varies from cell to cell and reflects the effect of external stimuli on cell fate and cell state. Thanks to emerging platforms and analysis methods, the systematic characterization of chromatin conformation throughout the genome has begun and has yielded several reference epigenome maps for a growing number of cell types. Such maps are enabling insights into the correlation architecture of different epigenomic marks: a number of discrete chromatin states are found across different cell types. The combination of these reference maps and robust platforms for genome-wide data generation has introduced a new era in which studies of human disease are becoming feasible. Little is known about the role of the epigenome in MS, but it is likely that, as in other inflammatory disease, susceptibility factors and events along the course of the disease will alter the chromatin state of different cell types in patients with MS. Here, we review different strategies for the characterization of the epigenome and how these strategies could be used to implement new studies to explore how alterations of chromatin architecture establish a dysregulated transcriptional state in the context of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kaliszewska
- Program in Translational NeuroPsychiatric Genomics, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, NRB168, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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39
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Epigenetic programming of neurodegenerative diseases by an adverse environment. Brain Res 2012; 1444:96-111. [PMID: 22330722 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.01.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2011] [Revised: 01/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/17/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Experience and environment can critically influence the risk and progression of neurodegenerative disorders. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as miRNA expression, DNA methylation, and histone modifications, readily respond to experience and environmental factors. Here we propose that epigenetic regulation of gene expression and environmental modulation thereof may play a key role in the onset and course of common neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis. For example, epigenetic mechanisms may mediate long-term responses to adverse experience, such as stress, to affect disease susceptibility and the course of neurodegenerative events. This review introduces the epigenetic components and their possible role in mediating neuropathological processes in response to stress. We argue that epigenetic modifications will affect neurodegenerative events through altered gene function. The study of epigenetic states in neurodegenerative diseases presents an opportunity to gain new insights into risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms. Moreover, research into epigenetic regulation of disease may revolutionize health care by opening new avenues of personalized, preventive and curative medicine.
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40
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Huang Y, Zhao F, Wang L, Yin H, Zhou C, Wang X. Increased expression of histone deacetylases 2 in temporal lobe epilepsy: A study of epileptic patients and rat models. Synapse 2011; 66:151-9. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.20995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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41
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Zhu Q, Wang L, Zhang Y, Zhao FH, Luo J, Xiao Z, Chen GJ, Wang XF. Increased expression of DNA methyltransferase 1 and 3a in human temporal lobe epilepsy. J Mol Neurosci 2011; 46:420-6. [PMID: 21826395 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-011-9602-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 07/13/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a key epigenetic modification of DNA that is catalyzed by DNA methyltransferase (DNMT). Increasing evidence suggests that DNA methylation in neurons regulates synaptic plasticity as well as neuronal network activity. Here, we evaluated DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1) and Dnmt3a expression in brain tissues of epileptic patients to explore their possible role in epileptogenesis. Tissue samples from temporal neocortices of 25 patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and ten histologically normal temporal lobes from control patients were used to detect Dnmt1 and Dnmt3a expression through immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting analysis. We found that both Dnmt1 and Dnmt3a expression were principally expressed in the nucleus and the cytoplasm of NeuN-positive neurons, but not in GFAP-positive astrocytes. Levels of the two DNMT proteins were significantly increased in patients with TLE. Our study suggests that DNMT1 and DNMT3a may play a role in the pathogenesis of TLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
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42
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Csaba G. The biological basis and clinical significance of hormonal imprinting, an epigenetic process. Clin Epigenetics 2011; 2:187-96. [PMID: 22704336 PMCID: PMC3365381 DOI: 10.1007/s13148-011-0024-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2011] [Accepted: 02/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The biological phenomenon, hormonal imprinting, was named and defined by us (Biol Rev, 1980, 55, 47-63) 30 years ago, after many experimental works and observations. Later, similar phenomena were also named to epigenetic imprinting or metabolic imprinting. In the case of hormonal imprinting, the first encounter between a hormone and its developing target cell receptor-usually at the perinatal period-determines the normal receptor-hormone connection for life. However, in this period, molecules similar to the target hormone (members of the same hormone family, synthetic drugs, environmental pollutants, etc), which are also able to bind to the receptor, provoke faulty imprinting also with lifelong-receptorial, behavioral, etc.,-consequences. Faulty hormonal imprinting could also be provoked later in life in continuously dividing cells and in the brain. Faulty hormonal imprinting is a disturbance of gene methylation pattern, which is epigenenetically inherited to the further generations (transgenerational imprinting). The absence of the normal or the presence of false hormonal imprinting predispose to or manifested in different diseases (e.g., malignant tumors, metabolic syndrome) long after the time of imprinting or in the progenies.
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Affiliation(s)
- György Csaba
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, 1445 Budapest, P.O. Box 370, Hungary
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43
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Chen M, Pereira-Smith OM, Tominaga K. Loss of the chromatin regulator MRG15 limits neural stem/progenitor cell proliferation via increased expression of the p21 Cdk inhibitor. Stem Cell Res 2011; 7:75-88. [PMID: 21621175 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2010] [Revised: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chromatin regulation is crucial for many biological processes such as transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, and DNA damage repair. We have found that it is also important for neural stem/progenitor cell (NSC) function and neurogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 is specifically up-regulated in Mrg15 deficient NSCs. Knockdown of p21 expression by p21 shRNA results in restoration of cell proliferation. This indicates that p21 is directly involved in the growth defects observed in Mrg15 deficient NSCs. Activated p53 accumulates in Mrg15 deficient NSCs and this most likely accounts for the up-regulation of p21 expression in the cells. We observed decreased p53 and p21 levels and a concomitant increase in the percentage of BrdU positive cells in Mrg15 null cultures following expression of p53 shRNA. DNA damage foci, as indicated by immunostaining for γH2AX and 53BP1, are detectable in a sub-population of Mrg15 deficient NSC cultures under normal growing conditions and the majority of p21-positive cells are also positive for 53BP1 foci. Furthermore, Mrg15 deficient NSCs exhibit severe defects in DNA damage response following ionizing radiation. Our observations highlight the importance of chromatin regulation and DNA damage response in NSC function and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizhen Chen
- Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas 78245, USA
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44
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Shen Y, Nandi P, Taylor MB, Stuckey S, Bhadsavle HP, Weiss B, Storici F. RNA-driven genetic changes in bacteria and in human cells. Mutat Res 2011; 717:91-8. [PMID: 21515292 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2011.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Revised: 03/20/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As recently demonstrated in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae model organism using synthetic RNA-containing oligonucleotides (oligos), RNA can serve as a template for DNA synthesis at the chromosomal level during the process of double-strand break (DSB) repair. Herein we show that the phenomenon of RNA-mediated DNA modification and repair is not limited to yeast cells. A tract of six ribonucleotides embedded in single-strand DNA oligos corresponding to either lagging or leading strand sequences could serve as a template to correct a defective lacZ marker gene in the chromosome of the bacterium Escherichia coli. In order to test the capacity of RNA to modify DNA in mammalian cells, we utilized DNA oligos containing an embedded tract of six ribonucleotides, as well as oligos mostly made of RNA. These oligos were designed to repair a chromosomal break generated within a copy of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene randomly integrated into the genome of human HEK-293 cells. We show that these RNA-containing oligos can serve as templates to repair a DSB in human cells and can introduce base changes into genomic or plasmid DNA. In both E. coli and human cells, the strand bias of chromosomal gene correction by the single-strand RNA-containing oligos was the same as that obtained for the corresponding DNA molecules. Therefore, the RNA-containing oligos are not converted into a cDNA before annealing with complementary DNA. Overall, we demonstrate that in both bacterial and human cells, as in yeast, RNA sequences can have a direct role in DNA genetic modification and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shen
- School of Biology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA
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45
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Pfaff DW, Rapin I, Goldman S. Male predominance in autism: neuroendocrine influences on arousal and social anxiety. Autism Res 2011; 4:163-76. [PMID: 21465671 DOI: 10.1002/aur.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We offer a neurobiologic theory based on animal work that helps account for the conspicuous male predominance in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In young male animals, testosterone (TST) binds to androgen receptors (AR) in brainstem neurons responsible for enhancing brain arousal. As a consequence, arousal-related neurotransmitters bombard the amygdala hypersensitized by TST acting though AR. Arousal-related inputs are known to prime amygdaloid mechanisms for fear and anxiety, with resultant social avoidance. We hypothesize that similar mechanisms contribute to autism's male predominance and to its defining impaired social skills. The theory rests on two key interacting factors: the molecular effects of TST in genetically vulnerable boys in combination with environmental stresses they experienced in utero, neonatally, or during the first years. We postulate that higher TST levels and, therefore, higher amounts of arousal-related inputs to the amygdala sensitize these genetically vulnerable male infants to very early stresses. In sharp contrast to boys, girls not only do not have high levels of TST-facilitated arousal-causing inputs to the amygdala but they also enjoy the protection afforded by estrogenic hormones, oxytocin, and the oxytocin receptor. This theory suggests that novel technologies applied to the molecular endocrinology of TST's actions through AR will offer new avenues of enquiry into ASD. Since the high male preponderance in autism is important yet understudied, we offer our theory, which is based on detailed neurobehavioral research with animals, to stimulate basic and clinical research in animals and humans and hopefully help develop novel more effective medical treatments for autism.
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46
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Massirer KB, Carromeu C, Griesi-Oliveira K, Muotri AR. Maintenance and differentiation of neural stem cells. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2011; 3:107-14. [PMID: 21061307 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The adult mammalian brain contains self-renewable, multipotent neural stem cells (NSCs) that are responsible for neurogenesis and plasticity in specific regions of the adult brain. Extracellular matrix, vasculature, glial cells, and other neurons are components of the niche where NSCs are located. This surrounding environment is the source of extrinsic signals that instruct NSCs to either self-renew or differentiate. Additionally, factors such as the intracellular epigenetics state and retrotransposition events can influence the decision of NSC's fate into neurons or glia. Extrinsic and intrinsic factors form an intricate signaling network, which is not completely understood. These factors altogether reflect a few of the key players characterized so far in the new field of NSC research and are covered in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katlin B Massirer
- Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
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47
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Vucetic Z, Reyes TM. Central dopaminergic circuitry controlling food intake and reward: implications for the regulation of obesity. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2011; 2:577-593. [PMID: 20836049 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Prevalence of obesity in the general population has increased in the past 15 years from 15% to 35%. With increasing obesity, the coincident medical and social consequences are becoming more alarming. Control over food intake is crucial for the maintenance of body weight and represents an important target for the treatment of obesity. Central nervous system mechanisms responsible for control of food intake have evolved to sense the nutrient and energy levels in the organism and to coordinate appropriate responses to adjust energy intake and expenditure. This homeostatic system is crucial for maintenance of stable body weight over long periods of time of uneven energy availability. However, not only the caloric and nutritional value of food but also hedonic and emotional aspects of feeding affect food intake. In modern society, the increased availability of highly palatable and rewarding (fat, sweet) food can significantly affect homeostatic balance, resulting in dysregulated food intake. This review will focus on the role of hypothalamic and mesolimbic/mesocortical dopaminergic (DA) circuitry in coding homeostatic and hedonic signals for the regulation of food intake and maintenance of caloric balance. The interaction of dopamine with peripheral and central indices of nutritional status (e.g., leptin, ghrelin, neuropeptide Y), and the susceptibility of the dopamine system to prenatal insults will be discussed. Additionally, the importance of alterations in dopamine signaling that occur coincidently with obesity will be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zivjena Vucetic
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Teresa M Reyes
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.,Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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Suzuki Y, Yanagisawa M, Ariga T, Yu RK. Histone acetylation-mediated glycosyltransferase gene regulation in mouse brain during development. J Neurochem 2011; 116:874-80. [PMID: 21214566 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.07042.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Gangliosides are sialic acid-containing glycosphingolipids abundant in the central nervous tissues. The quantity and expression pattern of gangliosides in brain change drastically during early development and are mainly regulated through stage-specific expression of glycosyltransferase (ganglioside synthase) genes. It is still unclear, however, how the transcriptional activation of glycosyltransferase genes is regulated during development. In this study, we investigated the epigenetic regulation of two key glycosyltransferases, N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase I (GA2/GM2/GD2/GT2-synthase) and sialyltransferase II (GD3-synthase), in embryonic, postnatal, and adult mouse brains. Combined bisulfite restriction analysis assay showed that DNA methylation in the 5' regions of these glycosyltransferase genes was not associated with their expression patterns. On the other hand, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay of both glycosyltransferase genes showed that their histone H3 acetylation was highly correlated to their mRNA expression levels during development. In fact, we confirmed that the expression patterns of gangliosides and glycosyltransferases in neuroepithelial cells were changed after treatment with a histone deacetylase inhibitor, sodium butyrate. Our studies provide the first evidence that efficient histone acetylation of the glycosyltransferase genes in mouse brain contributes to the developmental alteration of ganglioside expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Suzuki
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia 30912, USA
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Ginsburg S, Jablonka E. The evolution of associative learning: A factor in the Cambrian explosion. J Theor Biol 2010; 266:11-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2010.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2010] [Revised: 05/23/2010] [Accepted: 06/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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50
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Abstract
Hormonal imprinting takes place at the first encounter between the developing receptor and the target hormone, perinatally, causing life-long changes in the binding capacity of the receptor and the indexes influenced by it. Perinatal hormonal imprinting is absolutely needed for the maturation of receptor, however, at the same time, molecules similar to the target hormone (related hormones, synthetic drugs acting at receptor level, chemicals, environmental pollutants etc.) can cause faulty imprinting, also with (morphological, biochemical, receptorial, behavioral) consequences for life. Although imprinting is characteristic and inevitable perinatally, it can be provoked in any period of life in developing cells, especially at the weanling and adolescent age (late imprinting). There is no gene mutation during imprinting, however, the methylation pattern of the genes changes and that inherits epigenetically the imprinting, which is manifested in disposition to diseases or in diseases (e.g. tumor formation, metabolic syndrome). Imprinting is inherited between generations that could cause--in the present chemical world--evolutionary consequences. Thus, medicaments or preventive drugs, e.g. pregnancy protecting drugs or oral contraceptive pills should be given cautiously, especially in the critical periods, considering that consequences are manifested always after a long period (sometimes decades) or in the next generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- György Csaba
- Semmelweis Egyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar Genetikai, Sejt- és Immunbiológiai Intézet, Budapest, Pf. 370 1445.
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