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Song X, Li Q, Diao J, Li J, Li Y, Zhang S, Zhao L, Chen L, Wei J, Shu J, Liu Y, Sun M, Huang P, Wang T, Qin J. Association of MTHFD1 gene polymorphisms and maternal smoking with risk of congenital heart disease: a hospital-based case-control study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:88. [PMID: 35100977 PMCID: PMC8805321 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background MTHFD1 gene may affect the embryonic development by elevated homocysteine levels, DNA synthesis and DNA methylation, but limited number of genetic variants of MTHFD1 gene was focused on the association with congenital heart disease (CHD). This study examined the role of MTHFD1 gene and maternal smoking on infant CHD risk, and investigated their interaction effects in Chinese populations. Methods A case-control study of 464 mothers of CHD infants and 504 mothers of health controls was performed. The exposures of interest were maternal tobacco exposure, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of maternal MTHFD1 gene. The logistic regression model was used for accessing the strength of association. Results Mothers exposed to secondhand smoke during 3 months before pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–2.15) and in the first trimester of pregnancy (aOR = 2.24; 95%CI: 1.57–3.20) were observed an increased risk of CHD. Our study also found that polymorphisms of maternal MTHFD1 gene at rs1950902 (AA vs. GG: aOR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.01–2.97), rs2236222 (GG vs. AA: aOR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.38–4.12), rs1256142 (GA vs.GG: aOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.01–2.45) and rs11849530 (GG vs. AA: aOR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.02–2.77) were significantly associated with higher risk of CHD. However, we did not observe a significant association between maternal MTHFD1 rs2236225 and offspring CHD risk. Furthermore, we found the different degrees of interaction effects between polymorphisms of the MTHFD1 gene including rs1950902, rs2236222, rs1256142, rs11849530 and rs2236225, and maternal tobacco exposure. Conclusions Maternal polymorphisms of MTHFD1 gene, maternal tobacco exposure and their interactions are significantly associated with the risk of CHD in offspring in Han Chinese populations. However, more studies in different ethnic populations with a larger sample and prospective designs are required to confirm our findings. Trial registration Registration number: ChiCTR1800016635. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04419-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinli Song
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Qiongxuan Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Jingyi Diao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Jinqi Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Yihuan Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Senmao Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Lijuan Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Letao Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Jianhui Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Shu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Yiping Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Mengting Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Huang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defect for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 53 Xiangchun Road, Changsha, 410028, Hunan, China.
| | - Jiabi Qin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, 110 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China. .,Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. .,NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defect for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, 53 Xiangchun Road, Changsha, 410028, Hunan, China. .,Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of clinical epidemiology, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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2
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Li P, Lee SM, Kim HY, Kim S, Park S, Park KS, Park HG. Colorimetric detection of individual biothiols by tailor made reactions with silver nanoprisms. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3937. [PMID: 33594153 PMCID: PMC7886879 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83433-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We herein described a rapid, sensitive, and selective colorimetric sensing platform for biothiols in human serum, which relies on the dual functions of biothiols as anti-etching and aggregating agent for silver nanoprisms (AgNPRs). In principle, the target biothiols that bind to the surface of AgNPRs through Ag–S covalent interactions protect the AgNPRs from being etched by chloride ion (Cl−) in human serum, thus exhibiting the blue/purple color that is indicative of AgNPRs. On the other hand, the color of AgNPRs turned to yellow in the absence of biothiols or the presence of non-sulfur-containing amino acids, indicating the formation of small silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Importantly, we found that individual biothiols (Hcy, Cys, and GSH) exert not only the anti-etching effect, but also the aggregating effect on AgNPRs, which can be modulated by simply tuning the pH conditions, and this consequently allows for the discriminative detection of each biothiol. Based on this simple and cost-effective strategy, we successfully determined the Hcy, Cys, and GSH in human serum with high sensitivity and selectivity within 10 min, demonstrating the diagnostic capability and potential in practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK 21+ Program), KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Mo Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK 21+ Program), KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Yong Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK 21+ Program), KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohyun Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK 21+ Program), KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Steve Park
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Soo Park
- Department of Biological Engineering, College of Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyun Gyu Park
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK 21+ Program), KAIST, Daehak-ro 291, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Moreno-Fernandez J, Ochoa JJ, Lopez-Frias M, Diaz-Castro J. Impact of Early Nutrition, Physical Activity and Sleep on the Fetal Programming of Disease in the Pregnancy: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12123900. [PMID: 33419354 PMCID: PMC7766505 DOI: 10.3390/nu12123900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early programming is the adaptation process by which nutrition and environmental factors alter development pathways during prenatal growth, inducing changes in postnatal metabolism and diseases. The aim of this narrative review, is evaluating the current knowledge in the scientific literature on the effects of nutrition, environmental factors, physical activity and sleep on development pathways. If in utero adaptations were incorrect, this would cause a mismatch between prenatal programming and adulthood. Adequate caloric intake, protein, mineral, vitamin, and long-chain fatty acids, have been noted for their relevance in the offspring brain functions and behavior. Fetus undernutrition/malnutrition causes a delay in growth and have detrimental effects on the development and subsequent functioning of the organs. Pregnancy is a particularly vulnerable period for the development of food preferences and for modifications in the emotional response. Maternal obesity increases the risk of developing perinatal complications and delivery by cesarean section and has long-term implications in the development of metabolic diseases. Physical exercise during pregnancy contributes to overall improved health post-partum. It is also interesting to highlight the relevance of sleep problems during pregnancy, which influence adequate growth and fetal development. Taking into account these considerations, we conclude that nutrition and metabolic factors during early life play a key role of health promotion and public health nutrition programs worldwide to improve the health of the offspring and the health costs of hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Moreno-Fernandez
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, E-18071 Granada, Spain; (J.M.-F.); (M.L.-F.); (J.D.-C.)
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix Verdú”, University of Granada, E-18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Julio J. Ochoa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, E-18071 Granada, Spain; (J.M.-F.); (M.L.-F.); (J.D.-C.)
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix Verdú”, University of Granada, E-18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-958-241-000 (ext. 20317)
| | - Magdalena Lopez-Frias
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, E-18071 Granada, Spain; (J.M.-F.); (M.L.-F.); (J.D.-C.)
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix Verdú”, University of Granada, E-18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Javier Diaz-Castro
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, E-18071 Granada, Spain; (J.M.-F.); (M.L.-F.); (J.D.-C.)
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology “José Mataix Verdú”, University of Granada, E-18071 Granada, Spain
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4
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Bitew ZW, Worku T, Alebel A, Alemu A. Magnitude and Associated Factors of Neural Tube Defects in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Glob Pediatr Health 2020; 7:2333794X20939423. [PMID: 32743026 PMCID: PMC7376379 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x20939423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects remain a major problem in developing countries, but there are limited comprehensive national reports to date in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of neural tube defects and associated factors in Ethiopia. Electronic databases and other sources were used to retrieve studies. Fifteen out of 862 studies were included in the final analysis. The estimated pooled prevalence of neural tube defects among children in Ethiopia was 63.3 cases per 10 000 children. The pooled prevalence of spinal bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele was 41.09, 18.90, and 1.07 per 10 000 children, respectively. Previous family history and unplanned pregnancy were risk factors for neural tube defects. Folic acid supplementation during the first trimester of pregnancy was found to be protective. Neural tube defects are widespread in Ethiopia. Hence, fortification of food with folic acid or folic acid supplementation during childbearing age is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ayinalem Alemu
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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5
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Fofou-Caillierez MB, Guéant-Rodriguez RM, Alberto JM, Chéry C, Josse T, Gérard P, Forges T, Foliguet B, Feillet F, Guéant JL. Vitamin B-12 and liver activity and expression of methionine synthase are decreased in fetuses with neural tube defects. Am J Clin Nutr 2019; 109:674-683. [PMID: 30848279 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) is influenced by nutritional factors and genetic determinants of one-carbon metabolism. A key pathway of this metabolism is the vitamin B-12- and folate-dependent remethylation of homocysteine, which depends on methionine synthase (MS, encoded by MTR), methionine synthase reductase, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase. Methionine, the product of this pathway, is the direct precursor of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the universal methyl donor needed for epigenetic mechanisms. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate whether the availability of vitamin B-12 and folate and the expression or activity of the target enzymes of the remethylation pathway are involved in NTD risk. METHODS We studied folate and vitamin B-12 concentrations and activity, expression, and gene variants of the 3 enzymes in liver from 14 NTD and 16 non-NTD fetuses. We replicated the main findings in cord blood from pregnancies of 41 NTD fetuses compared with 21 fetuses with polymalformations (metabolic and genetic findings) and 375 control pregnancies (genetic findings). RESULTS The tissue concentration of vitamin B-12 (P = 0.003), but not folate, and the activity (P = 0.001), transcriptional level (P = 0.016), and protein expression (P = 0.003) of MS were decreased and the truncated inactive isoforms of MS were increased in NTD livers. SAM was significantly correlated with MS activity and vitamin B-12. A gene variant in exon 1 of GIF (Gastric Intrinsic Factor gene) was associated with a dramatic decrease of liver vitamin B-12 in 2 cases. We confirmed the decreased vitamin B-12 in cord blood from NTD pregnancies. A gene variant of GIF exon 3 was associated with NTD risk. CONCLUSIONS The decreased vitamin B-12 in liver and cord blood and decreased expression and activity of MS in liver point out the impaired remethylation pathway as hallmarks associated with NTD risk. We suggest evaluating vitamin B-12 in the nutritional recommendations for prevention of NTD risk beside folate fortification or supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma'atem B Fofou-Caillierez
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Personalized Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, and National Reference Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases
| | - Rosa-Maria Guéant-Rodriguez
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Personalized Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, and National Reference Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases
| | - Jean-Marc Alberto
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Céline Chéry
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Thomas Josse
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Philippe Gérard
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Thierry Forges
- Regional Maternity of Nancy, University Regional Hospital Center of Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - Bernard Foliguet
- Regional Maternity of Nancy, University Regional Hospital Center of Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - François Feillet
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Jean-Louis Guéant
- Inserm UMRS 954, Nutrition-Genetics-Environmental Risk Exposure, Inserm and University of Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Personalized Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, and National Reference Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases
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6
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Yu Y, Jia C, Shi Q, Zhu Y, Liu Y. Hyperhomocysteinemia in men with a reproductive history of fetal neural tube defects: Three case reports and literature review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e13998. [PMID: 30633186 PMCID: PMC6336619 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000013998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Hereditary hyperhomocysteinemia results from a polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene that reduces folate metabolism. Mutations in the MTHFR gene are common in parents who have given birth to children with neural tube defects (NTDs). Most research has focused on the risk for fetal NTDs in women with hyperhomocysteinemia and MTHFR gene mutations. Studies investigating the association between hyperhomocysteinemia, MTHFR gene mutations, and the risk for fetal NTDs in men are scarce. PATIENT CONCERNS Here, we report on 3 men with hyperhomocysteinemia and the MTHFR C677T homozygous TT genotype that have reproductive histories of fetal NTDs. DIAGNOSIS these 3 men were diagnosed as hyperhomocysteinemia and MTHFR C677T homozygous TT genotype. INTERVENTIONS Three men received homocysteine-lowering therapy. OUTCOMES The first man's wife became pregnant, and a healthy infant was spontaneously delivered at term, the other 2 men's wives are still not pregnant. LESSONS Findings from this case reports and published literature imply that hereditary hyperhomocysteinemia in men affects sperm quality and sperm DNA methylation and causes epigenetic modifications that can result in fetal NTDs. We recommend monitoring homocysteine and folate levels in men before conception and supplementing with folate as needed, especially in men with a reproductive history of fetuses with neural tube or other birth defects.
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7
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Targeted metabolomics analysis reveals the association between maternal folic acid supplementation and fatty acids and amino acids profiles in rat pups. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2018; 1090:101-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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8
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Deng C, Tang S, Huang X, Gao J, Tian J, Zhou X, Xie Y, Liao M, Mo Z, Wang Q. Identification of three novel loci of ALDH2 Gene for Serum Folate levels in a Male Chinese Population by Genome-Wide Association Study. Gene 2018; 674:121-126. [PMID: 29953918 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.06.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum folate is important in clinical researches and DNA synthesis and methylation. Some loci and genes that are associated with folate levels had been detected by genome-wide association studies (GWAS), such as rs1801133 in MTHFR and rs1979277 in SHMT1. Nevertheless, only a small part of variants has been clearly identified for serum folate. Hence, we conducted a GWAS to discover new inherited susceptibility and gene-environment interactions on serum folate concentration. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a healthy Chinese population of 1999 men, genotyping was performed using Illumina HumanOmni1-Quad BeadChip. Serum folate levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), pathway enrichment analysis and statistical analysis were performed by Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) and Statistic Package for Social Science (SPSS). RESULTS We validated that rs1801133 in MTHFR was significantly involved in serum folate (P = 4.21 × 10-19). Surprisingly, we discovered three novel loci rs3782886, rs671, and rs4646776 of ALDH2 gene were suggestively significantly associated with folate serum folate levels in the male population studied (P = 2.17 × 10-7, P = 3.60 × 10-7, P = 3.99 × 10-7, respectively) after adjusting for population stratification, BMI and age. Men with the AA genotype had significantly higher serum folate levels compared with men with the GG/AG genotype. But we found ALDH2 gene mutation no relation to part of environmental factors on serum folate levels. CONCLUSION In a male Chinese population, genome-wide association study discovered that three novel SNPs rs3782886, rs671 and rs4646776 of ALDH2 gene were suggestively significantly associated with serum folate levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiwang Deng
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Shaomei Tang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Xiaoliang Huang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Jiamin Gao
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Jiarong Tian
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Xianguo Zhou
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Yuanliang Xie
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Ming Liao
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China
| | - Zengnan Mo
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Department of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China.
| | - Qiuyan Wang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China; Guangxi Colleges and Universities Key Laboratory of Biological Molecular Medicine Research, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, China.
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9
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Abstract
The term folate (vitamin B9) refers to a group of water-soluble compounds that are nutritionally essential for the support of optimal human health and development. Folates participate in numerous one-carbon transfer reactions, including the methylation of important biomolecules (lipids, amino acids, DNA). A deficiency of folate leads to pathological outcomes including anemia and impairments in reproductive health and fetal development. Due to the linkage of impaired folate status with an increased prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) in babies, several jurisdictions required the fortification of the food supply with folic acid, a synthetic and stable form of folate. Data from the postfortification era have provided strong evidence for the reduction of NTDs due to folic acid fortification. However, concern is now growing with respect to the amount of synthetic folic acid within the human food supply. Excess folic acid intake has been linked to a masking of vitamin B12 deficiency, and concerns regarding the promotion of folate-sensitive cancers, including colorectal cancer. New strategies to ensure the supply of optimal folate to at-risk populations may be needed, including the use of biofortification approaches, in order to address recent concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nassim Naderi
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada; Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - James D House
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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10
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Molloy AM. Should vitamin B 12 status be considered in assessing risk of neural tube defects? Ann N Y Acad Sci 2018; 1414:109-125. [PMID: 29377209 PMCID: PMC5887889 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is a strong biological premise for including vitamin B12 with folic acid in strategies to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs), due to the closely interlinked metabolism of these two vitamins. For example, reduction of B12 deficiency among women of reproductive age could enhance the capacity of folic acid to prevent NTDs by optimizing the cellular uptake and utilization of natural folate cofactors. Vitamin B12 might also have an independent role in NTD prevention, such that adding it in fortification programs might be more effective than fortifying with folic acid alone. Globally, there is ample evidence of widespread vitamin B12 deficiency in low‐ and middle‐income countries, but there is also considerable divergence of vitamin B12 status across regions, likely due to genetic as well as nutritional factors. Here, I consider the evidence that low vitamin B12 status may be an independent factor associated with risk of NTDs, and whether a fortification strategy to improve B12 status would help reduce the prevalence of NTDs. I seek to identify knowledge gaps in this respect and specify research goals that would address these gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Molloy
- School of Medicine and School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Dublin, Ireland
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11
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Park HJ, Bailey LB, Shade DC, Hausman DB, Hohos NM, Meagher RB, Kauwell GPA, Lewis RD, Smith AK. Distinctions in gene-specific changes in DNA methylation in response to folic acid supplementation between women with normal weight and obesity. Obes Res Clin Pract 2017; 11:665-676. [DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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12
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Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the most severe congenital malformations of the central nervous system. The etiology is complex, with both genetic and environmental factors having important contributions. Researchers have known for the past two decades that maternal periconceptional use of the B vitamin folic acid can prevent many NTDs. Though this finding is arguably one of the most important recent discoveries in birth defect research, the mechanism by which folic acid exerts this benefit remains unknown. Research to date has focused on the hypothesis that an underlying genetic susceptibility interacts with folate-sensitive metabolic processes at the time of neural tube closure. Little progress has been made searching for risk-causative variants in candidate genes; therefore, more complex genetic and epigenetic methodologies are now being considered. This article reviews the research to date that has been targeted on this important gene-nutrient locus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Molloy
- School of Medicine and School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, 2 Ireland;
| | - Faith Pangilinan
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892; ,
| | - Lawrence C Brody
- Medical Genomics and Metabolic Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892; ,
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13
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Burdennyy AM, Loginov VI, Zavarykina TM, Braga EA, Kubatiev AA. The role of molecular genetic alterations in genes involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism in multifactorial diseases pathogenesis. RUSS J GENET+ 2017. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795417040044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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14
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J Brennand K. What if it was easier to prevent schizophrenia than to treat it? NPJ SCHIZOPHRENIA 2017; 3:9. [PMID: 28560255 PMCID: PMC5441527 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-017-0012-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen J Brennand
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029 USA.,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029 USA
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15
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Gernand AD, Schulze KJ, Stewart CP, West KP, Christian P. Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnancy worldwide: health effects and prevention. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2016; 12:274-89. [PMID: 27032981 PMCID: PMC4927329 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2016.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 323] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Micronutrients, vitamins and minerals accessible from the diet, are essential for biologic activity. Micronutrient status varies widely throughout pregnancy and across populations. Women in low-income countries often enter pregnancy malnourished, and the demands of gestation can exacerbate micronutrient deficiencies with health consequences for the fetus. Examples of efficacious single micronutrient interventions include folic acid to prevent neural tube defects, iodine to prevent cretinism, zinc to reduce risk of preterm birth, and iron to reduce the risk of low birth weight. Folic acid and vitamin D might also increase birth weight. While extensive mechanistic and association research links multiple antenatal micronutrients with plausible materno-fetal health advantages, hypothesized benefits have often been absent, minimal or unexpected in trials. These findings suggest a role for population context in determining health responses and filling extensive gaps in knowledge. Multiple micronutrient supplements reduce the risks of being born with low birth weight, small for gestational age or stillborn in undernourished settings, and justify micronutrient interventions with antenatal care. Measurable health effects of gestational micronutrient exposure might persist into childhood but few data exists on potential long-term benefits. In this Review, we discuss micronutrient intake recommendations, risks and consequences of deficiencies, and the effects of interventions with a particular emphasis on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison D Gernand
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, 110 Chandlee Laboratory, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Kerry J Schulze
- Center for Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Christine P Stewart
- Department of Nutrition, One Shields Avenue, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
| | - Keith P West
- Center for Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Parul Christian
- Center for Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Piao W, Guo J, Bao Y, Wang F, Zhang T, Huo J, Zhang K. Analysis of polymorphisms of genes associated with folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism and neural tube defects in Chinese Han Population. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 106:232-9. [DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Piao
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Key Laboratory of Trace Element Nutrition of National Health and Family Planning Commission of the People's Republic of China; Beijing China
| | - Jin Guo
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics; Capital Institute of Pediatrics; Chaoyang District Beijing China
| | - Yihua Bao
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics; Capital Institute of Pediatrics; Chaoyang District Beijing China
| | - Fang Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics; Capital Institute of Pediatrics; Chaoyang District Beijing China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics; Capital Institute of Pediatrics; Chaoyang District Beijing China
| | - Junsheng Huo
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Key Laboratory of Trace Element Nutrition of National Health and Family Planning Commission of the People's Republic of China; Beijing China
| | - Kunlin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology; Chinese Academy of Sciences; Beijing China
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Jung YL, Park JH, Kim MI, Park HG. Label-free colorimetric detection of biological thiols based on target-triggered inhibition of photoinduced formation of AuNPs. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 27:055501. [PMID: 26671249 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/27/5/055501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A label-free colorimetric method for the detection of biological thiols (biothiols) was developed. This method is based on prevention of the photoinduced reduction of auric ions (Au(III)) in the presence of amino acids (acting as a reducing agent) by biothiols; the photoinduced reduction is inhibited due to the strong interaction of the biothiols with Au(III). In this method, the sample was first incubated in an assay solution containing Au(III) and threonine; the sample solution was then exposed to 254 nm UV light. For samples without biothiols, this process led to the photoreduction of Au(III) followed by growth of gold nanoparticles accompanied by the visually detectable development of a red coloration typified by an absorption peak at ca 530 nm. Conversely, in the presence of biothiols, reduction of Au(III) to Au(0) was prevented by entrapment of Au(III) within the biothiols via the thiol group. The solution thus remained colorless even after UV irradiation, which was used as an indicator of the presence of biothiols. Using this strategy, biothiols were very conveniently analyzed by monitoring color changes of the samples with the naked eye or a UV-vis spectrometer. The strategy based on this interesting phenomenon exhibited high selectivity toward biothiols over common amino acids and was successfully employed for reliable quantification of biothiols present in human plasma, demonstrating its great potential for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Lim Jung
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21+ Program), KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea. Department of Business Opportunity Analysis, Technology Innovation Analysis Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), Seoul 130-741, Korea
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Hang XY, Shang AJ, Zhao QJ, Bai SC, Cheng C, Tao BZ, Wang LK, Liang S, Yin L. Association between chromosomal aberration of COX8C and tethered spinal cord syndrome: array-based comparative genomic hybridization analysis. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:1333-8. [PMID: 27651783 PMCID: PMC5020834 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.189200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Copy number variations have been found in patients with neural tube abnormalities. In this study, we performed genome-wide screening using high-resolution array-based comparative genomic hybridization in three children with tethered spinal cord syndrome and two healthy parents. Of eight copy number variations, four were non-polymorphic. These non-polymorphic copy number variations were associated with Angelman and Prader-Willi syndromes, and microcephaly. Gene function enrichment analysis revealed that COX8C, a gene associated with metabolic disorders of the nervous system, was located in the copy number variation region of Patient 1. Our results indicate that array-based comparative genomic hybridization can be used to diagnose tethered spinal cord syndrome. Our results may help determine the pathogenesis of tethered spinal cord syndrome and prevent occurrence of this disease.
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ZHANG R, WU K, ZHAN C, LIU X, GONG Z. Folic Acid Supplementation Reduces the Mutagenicity and Genotoxicity Caused by Benzo(a)pyrene. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 2016; 62:26-31. [DOI: 10.3177/jnsv.62.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rong ZHANG
- Institute of Food Science and Engineering, WuHan Polytechnic University
| | - Kejia WU
- Institute of Food Science and Engineering, WuHan Polytechnic University
| | - Caigui ZHAN
- Institute of Food Science and Engineering, WuHan Polytechnic University
| | - Xin LIU
- Institute of Food Science and Engineering, WuHan Polytechnic University
| | - Zhiyong GONG
- Institute of Food Science and Engineering, WuHan Polytechnic University
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Role of nutrition on anemia in elderly. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2015; 11:e1-e11. [PMID: 28531420 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2015.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Anemia in elderly population have a great incidence and is related to increased mortality risk. The incidence of nutrition in anemia is about one third of the total. Caloric and protein restriction, iron, vitamin B12, folic deficiency are the causes of nutritional anemia. Protein and energy malnutrition stimulate an increased cytokines production with induction of inflammation, immunodeficiency and anemia. Anorexia and obesity can be associated with anemia due to increased cytokines and hepdicin serum level. Macrophages activity is inhibited and a decrease in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration due to ineffective erythropoiesis is observed. An adequate energy and protein diet is necessary to reduce inflammation and increase iron absorption. A minimum of 1700 kcal/day and 1.7 gr/kg/day of protein intake are necessary to maintain anabolism in chronic patients to prevent and treat anemia. Iron supplementation by intravenous injection is safe and effective to correct severe iron deficiency. The supplementation of vitamins and oligomineral are useful to reduce oxidative stress and improve RBC longevity. Anemia in elderly could be prevented by an adequate nutrition, a simple and not expensive intervention, and associated to physical exercise reduce the incidence of mortality rate.
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Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Affected by Promoter Hypermethylation Induces Aberrant Gli2 Expression in Spina Bifida. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:5413-24. [PMID: 26446020 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9447-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
GLI2 is a key mediator of the sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway and plays an important role in neural tube development during vertebrate embryogenesis; however, the role of gli2 in human folate-related neural tube defects remains unclear. In this study, we compared methylation status and polymorphisms of gli2 between spina bifida patients and a control group to explore the underlying mechanisms related to folate deficiency in spina bifida. No single nucleotide polymorphism was found to be significantly different between the two groups, although gli2 methylation levels were significantly increased in spina bifida samples, accompanied by aberrant GLI2 expression. Moreover, a prominent negative correlation was found between the folate level in brain tissue and the gli2 methylation status (r = -0.41, P = 0.014), and gli2 hypermethylation increased the risk of spina bifida with an odds ratio of 12.45 (95 % confidence interval: 2.71-57.22, P = 0.001). In addition, we established a cell model to illustrate the effect of gli2 expression and the accessibility of chromatin affected by methylation. High gli2 and gli1 mRNA expression was detected in 5-Aza-treated cells, while gli2 hypermethylation resulted in chromatin inaccessibility and a reduced association with nuclear proteins containing transcriptional factors. More meaningful to the pathway, the effect gene of the Shh pathway, gli1, was found to have a reduced level of expression along with a decreased expression of gli2 in our cell model. Aberrant high methylation resulted in the low expression of gli2 in spina bifida, which was affected by the change in chromatin status and the capacity of transcription factor binding.
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Fujioka K, Yang W, Wallenstein MB, Zhao H, Wong RJ, Stevenson DK, Shaw GM. Heme oxygenase-1 promoter polymorphisms and risk of spina bifida. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 103:741-6. [PMID: 26173399 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Revised: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spina bifida is the most common form of neural tube defects (NTDs). Etiologies of NTDs are multifactorial, and oxidative stress is believed to play a key role in NTD development. Heme oxygenase (HO), the rate-limiting enzyme in heme degradation, has multiple protective properties including mediating antioxidant processes, making it an ideal candidate for study. The inducible HO isoform (HO-1) has two functional genetic polymorphisms: (GT)n dinucleotide repeats and A(-413)T SNP (rs2071746), both of which can affect its promoter activity. However, no study has investigated a possible association between HO-1 genetic polymorphisms and risk of NTDs. METHODS This case-control study included 152 spina bifida cases (all myelomeningoceles) and 148 non-malformed controls obtained from the California Birth Defects Monitoring Program reflecting births during 1990 to 1999. Genetic polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction and amplified fragment length polymorphisms/restriction fragment length polymorphisms using genomic DNA extracted from archived newborn blood spots. Genotype and haplotype frequencies of two HO-1 promoter polymorphisms between cases and controls were compared. RESULTS For (GT)n dinucleotide repeat lengths and the A(-413)T SNP, no significant differences in allele frequencies or genotypes were found. Linkage disequilibrium was observed between the HO-1 polymorphisms (D': 0.833); however, haplotype analyses did not show increased risk of spina bifida overall or by race/ethnicity. CONCLUSION Although, an association was not found between HO-1 polymorphisms and risk of spina bifida, we speculate that the combined effect of low HO-1 expression and exposures to known environmental oxidative stressors (low folate status or diabetes), may overwhelm antioxidant defenses and increase risk of NTDs and warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumichi Fujioka
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Matthew B Wallenstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Ronald J Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - David K Stevenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Gary M Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Zheng J, Lu X, Liu H, Zhao P, Li K, Li L. MTHFD1 polymorphism as maternal risk for neural tube defects: a meta-analysis. Neurol Sci 2014; 36:607-16. [PMID: 25502174 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-014-2035-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the association between methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 (MTHFD1) G1958A polymorphism and neural tube defects (NTD) susceptibility has been widely investigated; however, the results remained inconclusive. Hence, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism on NTD. The relative literatures were identified by search of the electronic databases PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE. The extracted data were statistically analyzed, and pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the association strength using Stata version 11.0 software. Finally, ten studies met our inclusion criteria, including 2,132/4,082 in NTD infants and controls; 1,402/3,136 in mothers with NTD offspring and controls; and 993/2,879 in fathers with NTD offspring and controls. This meta-analysis showed that, compared with the mothers with GG genotype, the women with AA genotype had an increased risk of NTD in their offspring, with OR values and 95 % CI at 1.39 (1.16-1.68), p < 0.001. Interestingly, fathers with AG genotype had a significant decreased risk of NTD offspring (OR = 0.79, 95 % CI = 0.66-0.94, p = 0.009). However, there was no significant association between the MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism in NTD patients and the risk of NTD. In conclusion, the present meta-analysis provided evidence of the association between maternal MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism and NTD susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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Barua S, Kuizon S, Junaid MA. Folic acid supplementation in pregnancy and implications in health and disease. J Biomed Sci 2014; 21:77. [PMID: 25135350 PMCID: PMC4237823 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-014-0077-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal exposure to dietary factors during pregnancy can influence embryonic development and may modulate the phenotype of offspring through epigenetic programming. Folate is critical for nucleotide synthesis, and preconceptional intake of dietary folic acid (FA) is credited with reduced incidences of neural tube defects in infants. While fortification of grains with FA resulted in a positive public-health outcome, concern has been raised for the need for further investigation of unintended consequences and potential health hazards arising from excessive FA intakes, especially following reports that FA may exert epigenetic effects. The objective of this article is to discuss the role of FA in human health and to review the benefits, concerns and epigenetic effects of maternal FA on the basis of recent findings that are important to design future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subit Barua
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island 10314, NY, USA
| | - Salomon Kuizon
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island 10314, NY, USA
| | - Mohammed A Junaid
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island 10314, NY, USA
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Osterhues A, Ali NS, Michels KB. The role of folic acid fortification in neural tube defects: a review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2014; 53:1180-90. [PMID: 24007422 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2011.575966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The worldwide prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) has fallen noticeably during the past 30 years, but the specific etiology and causative mechanism of NTDs remain unknown. Since introduction of mandatory fortification of grains with folic acid, a further decrease in NTD prevalence has been reported in North America and other countries with large variations among ethnic subgroups. However, a significant portion of NTDs still persists. Population data suggest that women of childbearing age may not yet be adequately targeted, while the general population may be overfortified with folic acid. While an excessive folate intake may be associated with adverse effects, there remains uncertainty about the minimum effective folate intake and status required for NTD prevention, and the safe upper folate level. Besides folate, several other lifestyle and environmental factors as well as genetic variations may influence NTD development, possibly by affecting one-carbon metabolism and thus epigenetic events. In conclusion, mandatory folic acid fortification plays a significant part in the reduction of NTD prevalence, but possibly at a cost and with a portion of NTDs remaining. More effective preventive strategies require better understanding of the etiology of this group of birth defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Osterhues
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), University Medical Center Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Molloy AM, Einri CN, Jain D, Laird E, Fan R, Wang Y, Scott JM, Shane B, Brody LC, Kirke PN, Mills JL. Is low iron status a risk factor for neural tube defects? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 100:100-6. [PMID: 24535840 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 01/08/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folic acid supplements can protect against neural tube defects (NTDs). Low folate and low vitamin B12 status may be maternal risk factors for having an NTD affected pregnancy. However, not all NTDs are preventable by having an adequate folate/ B12 status and other potentially modifiable factors may be involved. Folate and vitamin B12 status have important links to iron metabolism. Animal studies support an association between poor iron status and NTDs, but human data are scarce. We examined the relevance of low iron status in a nested NTD case-control study of women within a pregnant population-based cohort. METHODS Pregnant women were recruited between 1986 and 1990, when vitamin or iron supplementation in early pregnancy was rare. Blood samples, taken at an average of 14 weeks gestation, were used to measure ferritin and hemoglobin in 64 women during an NTD affected pregnancy and 207 women with unaffected pregnancies. RESULTS No significant differences in maternal ferritin or hemoglobin concentrations were observed between NTD affected and nonaffected pregnancies (case median ferritin 16.9 µg/L and hemoglobin 12.4 g/dl versus 15.4 µg/L and 12.3g/dl in controls). As reported previously, red cell folate and vitamin B12 concentrations were significantly lower in cases. Furthermore, there was no significant association of iron status with type of NTD lesion (anencephaly or spina bifida). CONCLUSION We conclude that low maternal iron status during early pregnancy is not an independent risk factor for NTDs. Adding iron to folic acid for periconceptional use may improve iron status but is not likely to prevent NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Molloy
- The Institute of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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Martinelli M, Girardi A, Cura F, Carinci F, Morselli PG, Scapoli L. Evidence of the involvement of the DHFR gene in nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. Eur J Med Genet 2013; 57:1-4. [PMID: 24361572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2013.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Studies aimed at evidencing genetic causes for neural tube defect (NTD) occurrence have often provided the inspiration for orofacial cleft aetiology investigations. The correlation between the two congenital malformations is provided by the similar incidence timing and the involvement of structures localized in the midline of the embryo. This connection is corroborated by the existence of a number of genes involved in both malformations. In this article, we considered the dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) gene, previously seen implicated in NTDs, as a candidate for cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) risk. Four SNPs mapping on the DHFR gene were genotyped for 400 Italian CL/P triads, using TaqMan(®) approach. The rs1677693 provided evidence of association, even if at borderline level (P value 0.049). In particular, the variant allele seems to have a protective effect OR = 0.80 (95% C.I. 0.64-0.99). Moreover, the combination of rs1677693(A)-rs1650723(G) alleles showed a significant association OR 0.64 (95% C.I. 0.47-0.86) (P value = 0.006). This represents the first attempt to demonstrate a role for DHFR in CL/P aetiology, howbeit the study of such gene deserves a deepening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Martinelli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 8, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Ambra Girardi
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 8, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Cura
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 8, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Carinci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari, 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Paolo Giovanni Morselli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 8, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Scapoli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University di Bologna, Via Belmeloro 8, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Fisk Green R, Byrne J, Crider KS, Gallagher M, Koontz D, Berry RJ. Folate-related gene variants in Irish families affected by neural tube defects. Front Genet 2013; 4:223. [PMID: 24223580 PMCID: PMC3818582 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2013.00223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Periconceptional folic acid use can often prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Variants of genes involved in folate metabolism in mothers and children have been associated with occurrence of NTDs. We identified Irish families with individuals affected by neural tube defects. In these families, we observed that neural tube defects and birth defects overall occurred at a higher rate in the maternal lineage compared with the paternal lineage. The goal of this study was to look for evidence for genetic effects that could explain the discrepancy in the occurrence of these birth defects in the maternal vs. paternal lineage. We genotyped blood samples from 322 individuals from NTD-affected Irish families, identified through their membership in spina bifida associations. We looked for differences in distribution in maternal vs. paternal lineages of five genetic polymorphisms: the DHFR 19 bp deletion, MTHFD1 1958G>A, MTHFR 1298A>C, MTHFR 677C>T, and SLC19A1 80A>G. In addition to looking at genotypes individually, we determined the number of genotypes associated with decreased folate metabolism in each relative (“risk genotypes”) and compared the distribution of these genotypes in maternal vs. paternal relatives. Overall, maternal relatives had a higher number of genotypes associated with lower folate metabolism than paternal relatives (p = 0.017). We expected that relatives would share the same risk genotype as the individuals with NTDs and/or their mothers. However, we observed that maternal relatives had an over-abundance of any risk genotype, rather than one specific genotype. The observed genetic effects suggest an epigenetic mechanism in which decreased folate metabolism results in epigenetic alterations related to the increased rate of NTDs and other birth defects seen in the maternal lineage. Future studies on the etiology of NTDs and other birth defects could benefit from including multigenerational extended families, in order to explore potential epigenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ridgely Fisk Green
- Carter Consulting, Inc. and Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, GA, USA
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Vogel TW, Carter CS, Abode-Iyamah K, Zhang Q, Robinson S. The role of primary cilia in the pathophysiology of neural tube defects. Neurosurg Focus 2013; 33:E2. [PMID: 23025443 DOI: 10.3171/2012.6.focus12222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a set of disorders that occur from perturbation of normal neural development. They occur in open or closed forms anywhere along the craniospinal axis and often result from a complex interaction between environmental and genetic factors. One burgeoning area of genetics research is the effect of cilia signaling on the developing neural tube and how the disruption of primary cilia leads to the development of NTDs. Recent progress has implicated the hedgehog (Hh), wingless-type integration site family (Wnt), and planar cell polarity (PCP) pathways in primary cilia as involved in normal neural tube patterning. A set of disorders involving cilia function, known as ciliopathies, offers insight into abnormal neural development. In this article, the authors discuss the common ciliopathies, such as Meckel-Gruber and Joubert syndromes, that are associated with NTDs, and review cilia-related signaling cascades responsible for mammalian neural tube development. Understanding the contribution of cilia in the formation of NTDs may provide greater insight into this common set of pediatric neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy W Vogel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Zhang T, Lou J, Zhong R, Wu J, Zou L, Sun Y, Lu X, Liu L, Miao X, Xiong G. Genetic variants in the folate pathway and the risk of neural tube defects: a meta-analysis of the published literature. PLoS One 2013; 8:e59570. [PMID: 23593147 PMCID: PMC3617174 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0059570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) are among the most prevalent and most severe congenital malformations worldwide. Polymorphisms in key genes involving the folate pathway have been reported to be associated with the risk of NTDs. However, the results from these published studies are conflicting. We surveyed the literature (1996-2011) and performed a comprehensive meta-analysis to provide empirical evidence on the association. METHODS AND FINDINGS We investigated the effects of 5 genetic variants from 47 study populations, for a total of 85 case-control comparisons MTHFR C677T (42 studies; 4374 cases, 7232 controls), MTHFR A1298C (22 studies; 2602 cases, 4070 controls), MTR A2756G (9 studies; 843 cases, 1006 controls), MTRR A66G (8 studies; 703 cases, 1572 controls), and RFC-1 A80G (4 studies; 1107 cases, 1585 controls). We found a convincing evidence of dominant effects of MTHFR C677T (OR 1.23; 95%CI 1.07-1.42) and suggestive evidence of RFC-1 A80G (OR 1.55; 95%CI 1.24-1.92). However, we found no significant effects of MTHFR A1298C, MTR A2756G, MTRR A66G in risk of NTDs in dominant, recessive or in allelic models. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis strongly suggested a significant association of the variant MTHFR C677T and a suggestive association of RFC-1 A80G with increased risk of NTDs. However, other variants involved in folate pathway do not demonstrate any evidence for a significant marginal association on susceptibility to NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ti Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiao Lou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Zhong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuzai Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoping Miao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guanglian Xiong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and MOE Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Wallingford JB, Niswander LA, Shaw GM, Finnell RH. The continuing challenge of understanding, preventing, and treating neural tube defects. Science 2013; 339:1222002. [PMID: 23449594 DOI: 10.1126/science.1222002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 306] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human birth defects are a major public health burden: The Center for Disease Control estimates that 1 of every 33 United States newborns presents with a birth defect, and worldwide the estimate approaches 6% of all births. Among the most common and debilitating of human birth defects are those affecting the formation of the neural tube, the precursor to the central nervous system. Neural tube defects (NTDs) arise from a complex combination of genetic and environmental interactions. Although substantial advances have been made in the prevention and treatment of these malformations, NTDs remain a substantial public health problem, and we are only now beginning to understand their etiology. Here, we review the process of neural tube development and how defects in this process lead to NTDs, both in humans and in the animal models that serve to inform our understanding of these processes. The insights we are gaining will help generate new intervention strategies to tackle the clinical challenges and to alleviate the personal and societal burdens that accompany these defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- John B Wallingford
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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32
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Guo J, Xie H, Wang J, Zhao H, Wang F, Liu C, Wang L, Lu X, Bao Y, Zou J, Wang G, Niu B, Zhang T. The maternal folate hydrolase gene polymorphism is associated with neural tube defects in a high-risk Chinese population. GENES AND NUTRITION 2012; 8:191-7. [PMID: 22918695 DOI: 10.1007/s12263-012-0309-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Folate hydrolase 1 (FOLH1) gene encodes intestinal folate hydrolase, which regulates intestinal absorption of dietary folate. Previous studies on the association between polymorphisms rs202676 and rs61886492 and the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) were inconclusive. A case-control study of women with NTD-affected pregnancies (n = 160) and controls (n = 320) was conducted in the Chinese population of Lvliang, a high-risk area for NTDs. We genotyped the polymorphic sites rs202676 and rs61886492 and assessed maternal plasma folate and total homocysteine (tHcy). Our results showed that in case group, plasma folate concentrations were 18 % lower compared with those of control group (8.32 vs. 6.79 nmol/L, p = 0.033) and tHcy concentrations were 17 % higher (10.47 vs. 12.65 μmol/L, p = 0.047). Almost all samples had the rs61886492 GG genotype (99.78 %). The result showed that the frequency of GG genotype in rs202676 was significantly higher in group with multiple NTDs than in controls (p = 0.030, OR = 2.157, 95 % CI, 1.06-4.38). The multiple-NTD group showed higher maternal plasma concentrations of tHcy (10.47 vs. 13.96 μmol/L, p = 0.024). The GG genotype of rs202676 had a lower maternal folate and higher tHcy concentrations than other genotypes with no significant differences. The result of structural prediction indicated that this variation might change the spatial structure of the protein. These results suggested that the maternal polymorphism rs202676 was a potential risk factor for multiple NTDs in this Chinese population. The allele G might affect maternal plasma folate and tHcy concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Guo
- Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, People's Republic of China
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Steenweg-de Graaff J, Roza SJ, Steegers EA, Hofman A, Verhulst FC, Jaddoe VW, Tiemeier H. Maternal folate status in early pregnancy and child emotional and behavioral problems: the Generation R Study. Am J Clin Nutr 2012; 95:1413-21. [PMID: 22572645 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.111.030791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal prenatal folate status has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, but the association with child emotional and behavioral problems is unclear. OBJECTIVES We assessed the association of maternal folate status during pregnancy with child emotional and behavioral problems. Also, we examined whether any association between folate status and child problems is a consequence of maternal folic acid supplement use or variation in maternal MTHFR genotype. DESIGN Within a population-based cohort, we measured maternal plasma folate concentrations in early pregnancy and assessed folic acid supplement use by questionnaire. Mothers of European descent were genotyped for the MTHFR 677 C→T polymorphism. Child emotional and behavioral problems were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist at 3 y in 3209 children. RESULTS Children of mothers with prenatal folate deficiency were at higher risk of emotional problems (OR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.38) but not behavioral problems (OR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.64, 1.56) after adjustment for confounders. A higher risk of emotional problems was also found in children whose mothers started using folic acid supplements late or did not use supplements at all (OR: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.14, 1.84) than in children whose mothers started periconceptionally. However, low plasma folate concentrations only partly explained this association (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.78). Although related to plasma folate concentrations, maternal MTHFR genotype did not explain the association of folate status with offspring emotional problems. CONCLUSION Low maternal folate status during early pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of emotional problems in the offspring.
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Narisawa A, Komatsuzaki S, Kikuchi A, Niihori T, Aoki Y, Fujiwara K, Tanemura M, Hata A, Suzuki Y, Relton CL, Grinham J, Leung KY, Partridge D, Robinson A, Stone V, Gustavsson P, Stanier P, Copp AJ, Greene ND, Tominaga T, Matsubara Y, Kure S. Mutations in genes encoding the glycine cleavage system predispose to neural tube defects in mice and humans. Hum Mol Genet 2012; 21:1496-503. [PMID: 22171071 PMCID: PMC3298276 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2011] [Revised: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs), including spina bifida and anencephaly, are common birth defects of the central nervous system. The complex multigenic causation of human NTDs, together with the large number of possible candidate genes, has hampered efforts to delineate their molecular basis. Function of folate one-carbon metabolism (FOCM) has been implicated as a key determinant of susceptibility to NTDs. The glycine cleavage system (GCS) is a multi-enzyme component of mitochondrial folate metabolism, and GCS-encoding genes therefore represent candidates for involvement in NTDs. To investigate this possibility, we sequenced the coding regions of the GCS genes: AMT, GCSH and GLDC in NTD patients and controls. Two unique non-synonymous changes were identified in the AMT gene that were absent from controls. We also identified a splice acceptor site mutation and five different non-synonymous variants in GLDC, which were found to significantly impair enzymatic activity and represent putative causative mutations. In order to functionally test the requirement for GCS activity in neural tube closure, we generated mice that lack GCS activity, through mutation of AMT. Homozygous Amt(-/-) mice developed NTDs at high frequency. Although these NTDs were not preventable by supplemental folic acid, there was a partial rescue by methionine. Overall, our findings suggest that loss-of-function mutations in GCS genes predispose to NTDs in mice and humans. These data highlight the importance of adequate function of mitochondrial folate metabolism in neural tube closure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Narisawa
- Department of Medical Genetics
- Department of Neurosurgery and
| | | | - Atsuo Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | | | | | - Kazuko Fujiwara
- Institute for Enzyme Research, University of Tokushima, Tokushima, Japan
| | | | - Akira Hata
- Department of Public Health, Chiba University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoichi Suzuki
- Department of Public Health, Chiba University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Caroline L. Relton
- Human Nutrition Research Centre, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - James Grinham
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Kit-Yi Leung
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Darren Partridge
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Alexis Robinson
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Victoria Stone
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Peter Gustavsson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philip Stanier
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | - Andrew J. Copp
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK and
| | | | | | | | - Shigeo Kure
- Department of Medical Genetics
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Ballard MS, Sun M, Ko J. Vitamin A, folate, and choline as a possible preventive intervention to fetal alcohol syndrome. Med Hypotheses 2012; 78:489-93. [PMID: 22285196 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2012.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Revised: 12/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
It is recognized that alcohol consumption during pregnancy is associated with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Alcohol can trigger a pattern of neurodegeneration in rat brains similar to other known gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) specific agonists. However this does not seem to explain FAS entirely, as impoverished care-giving environments have been shown to increase the risk of FAS. Individuals living under the poverty level are at risk for micronutrient deficiencies due to insufficient intake. In particular, three nutrients commonly found to be deficient are folate, choline and vitamin A. There is evidence to suggest that ethanol alone may not explain the entire spectrum of anomalies seen in individuals with FAS. It is hypothesized that FAS may be caused more by the nutritional deficiencies that are exacerbated by alcohol than by direct alcoholic neurotoxicity. It is known that ethanol inhibits folate, choline, and vitamin A/retinoic acid metabolism at multiple steps. Additionally, mice exposed to ethanol demonstrated epigenetic changes, or variations in the methylation of DNA to control gene expression. Folate is important in the production of methyl groups, which are subsequently used to create and methylate DNA. Choline (which is metabolized to acetylcholine) is important in neurotransmission and neurodevelopment. It is also involved in an alternative pathway in the production of methyl groups. In fact a study by Thomas et al. in 2009 found that nutritional supplementation with choline in rats exposed to ethanol in utero almost completely mitigated the degenerative effects of ethanol on development and behaviour. Lastly, vitamin A and retinoic acid metabolism is associated with the regulation of one sixth of the entire proteome. Thus supplementation of folate, choline and vitamin A to mothers may mitigate the effects of the alcohol and reduce the severity or prevalence of FAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Ballard
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calgary (Foothills Hospital), 1403 - 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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36
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Abstract
The vitamin folate functions within the cell as a carrier of one-carbon units. The requirement for one-carbon transfers is ubiquitous and all mammalian cells carry out folate dependent reactions. In recent years, low folate status has been linked to risk of numerous adverse health conditions throughout life from birth defects and complications of pregnancy to cardiovascular disease, cancer and cognitive dysfunction in the elderly. In many instances inadequate intake of folate seems to be the primary contributor but there is also evidence that an underlying genetic susceptibility can play a modest role by causing subtle alterations in the availability, metabolism or distribution of intermediates in folate related pathways. Folate linked one-carbon units are essential for DNA synthesis and repair and as a source of methyl groups for biological methylation reactions. The notion of common genetic variants being linked to risk of disease was relatively novel in 1995 when the first functional folate-related polymorphism was discovered. Numerous polymorphisms have now been identified in folate related genes and have been tested for functionality either as a modifier of folate status or as being associated with risk of disease. Moreover, there is increasing research into the importance of folate-derived one-carbon units for DNA and histone methylation reactions, which exert crucial epigenetic control over cellular protein synthesis. It is thus becoming clear that genetic aspects of folate metabolism are wide-ranging and may touch on events as disparate as prenatal imprinting to cancer susceptibility. This chapter will review the current knowledge in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Molloy
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland,
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37
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Stone N, Pangilinan F, Molloy AM, Shane B, Scott JM, Ueland PM, Mills JL, Kirke PN, Sethupathy P, Brody LC. Bioinformatic and genetic association analysis of microRNA target sites in one-carbon metabolism genes. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21851. [PMID: 21765920 PMCID: PMC3134459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 06/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
One-carbon metabolism (OCM) is linked to DNA synthesis and methylation, amino acid metabolism and cell proliferation. OCM dysfunction has been associated with increased risk for various diseases, including cancer and neural tube defects. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are ∼22 nt RNA regulators that have been implicated in a wide array of basic cellular processes, such as differentiation and metabolism. Accordingly, mis-regulation of miRNA expression and/or activity can underlie complex disease etiology. We examined the possibility of OCM regulation by miRNAs. Using computational miRNA target prediction methods and Monte-Carlo based statistical analyses, we identified two candidate miRNA “master regulators” (miR-22 and miR-125) and one candidate pair of “master co-regulators” (miR-344-5p/484 and miR-488) that may influence the expression of a significant number of genes involved in OCM. Interestingly, miR-22 and miR-125 are significantly up-regulated in cells grown under low-folate conditions. In a complementary analysis, we identified 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are located within predicted miRNA target sites in OCM genes. We genotyped these 15 SNPs in a population of healthy individuals (age 18–28, n = 2,506) that was previously phenotyped for various serum metabolites related to OCM. Prior to correction for multiple testing, we detected significant associations between TCblR rs9426 and methylmalonic acid (p = 0.045), total homocysteine levels (tHcy) (p = 0.033), serum B12 (p < 0.0001), holo transcobalamin (p < 0.0001) and total transcobalamin (p < 0.0001); and between MTHFR rs1537514 and red blood cell folate (p < 0.0001). However, upon further genetic analysis, we determined that in each case, a linked missense SNP is the more likely causative variant. Nonetheless, our Monte-Carlo based in silico simulations suggest that miRNAs could play an important role in the regulation of OCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Stone
- Genome Technology Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Faith Pangilinan
- Genome Technology Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anne M. Molloy
- School of Immunology and Biochemistry, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barry Shane
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, University of California, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - John M. Scott
- School of Immunology and Biochemistry, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Per Magne Ueland
- Section of Pharmacology, Institute of Medicine, University of Bergen and Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - James L. Mills
- Division of Epidemiology, Statistics, and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peader N. Kirke
- Child Health Epidemiology Unit, Health Research Board of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Praveen Sethupathy
- Genome Technology Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PS); (LCB)
| | - Lawrence C. Brody
- Genome Technology Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PS); (LCB)
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38
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Greene NDE, Stanier P, Moore GE. The emerging role of epigenetic mechanisms in the etiology of neural tube defects. Epigenetics 2011; 6:875-83. [PMID: 21613818 DOI: 10.4161/epi.6.7.16400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular requirements for neural tube closure are complex. This is illustrated by the occurrence of neural tube defects (NTDs) in many genetic mouse mutants, which implicate a variety of genes, pathways and cellular functions. NTDs are also prevalent birth defects in humans, affecting around 1 per 1000 pregnancies worldwide. In humans the causation is thought to involve the interplay of fetal genes and the effect of environmental factors. Recent studies on the aetiology of human NTDs, as well as analysis of mouse models, have raised the question of the possible involvement of epigenetic factors in determining susceptibility. A consideration of potential causative factors in human NTDs must now include both alterations in the regulation of gene expression, through mutation of promoter or regulatory elements, and the additional analysis of epigenetic regulation. Alterations in the epigenetic status can be directly modified by various environmental insults or maternal dietary factors.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW After the short summary of history of primary prevention of neural tube defects by folic acid or folic acid-containing multivitamin supplementation during the periconception period, the three main unsolved problems are highlighted. RECENT FINDINGS Both intervention trials and observational studies confirmed that this new primary preventive method is effective - beyond the prevention of neural-tube defects - in the reduction of the most common structural birth defects: congenital cardiovascular abnormalities. Nevertheless, this important progress in the field of congenital abnormalities is not appreciated appropriately. The periconception supplementation of both folic acid alone and folic acid-containing multivitamin is useful; however, the available data indicate the higher efficacy of multivitamins in the primary prevention of neural-tube defects and congenital cardiovascular abnormalities. The optimal dose of folic acid is not known though this knowledge would be necessary from both a scientific and practical aspect. SUMMARY Periconception folic acid or folic acid-containing multivitamin supplementation has resulted in a breakthrough in the primary prevention of neural-tube defects, cardiovascular abnormalities and probably some other defects; however, extra efforts are necessary to eliminate folic acid or folic acid-containing multivitamin preventable congenital abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew E Czeizel
- Foundation for the Community Control of Hereditary Diseases, Semmelweis University, School of Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
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40
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Woo MA, Kim MI, Yu BJ, Cho D, Kim NJ, Cho JH, Choi BO, Chang HN, Park HG. Cell-Based Quantification of Homocysteine Utilizing Bioluminescent Escherichia coli Auxotrophs. Anal Chem 2011; 83:3089-95. [DOI: 10.1021/ac103350y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Min-Ah Woo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Program), KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Il Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Program), KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Jo Yu
- MD Science Inc., 258-1 Munji-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Daeyeon Cho
- LabGenomics Co., Ltd., 1571-17 Seocho3-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-874, Republic of Korea
| | - Nag-Jong Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Program), KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - June Hyoung Cho
- MD Science Inc., 258-1 Munji-dong, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Ok Choi
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Mokdong Hospital, 911-1 Mokdong, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul 158-710, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Nam Chang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Program), KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Gyu Park
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (BK21 Program), KAIST, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 305-701, Republic of Korea
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Crider KS, Bailey LB, Berry RJ. Folic acid food fortification-its history, effect, concerns, and future directions. Nutrients 2011; 3:370-84. [PMID: 22254102 PMCID: PMC3257747 DOI: 10.3390/nu3030370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 351] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Revised: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 03/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Periconceptional intake of folic acid is known to reduce a woman’s risk of having an infant affected by a neural tube birth defect (NTD). National programs to mandate fortification of food with folic acid have reduced the prevalence of NTDs worldwide. Uncertainty surrounding possible unintended consequences has led to concerns about higher folic acid intake and food fortification programs. This uncertainty emphasizes the need to continually monitor fortification programs for accurate measures of their effect and the ability to address concerns as they arise. This review highlights the history, effect, concerns, and future directions of folic acid food fortification programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista S. Crider
- The Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30033, USA;
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; ; Tel.: +1-404-498-3893
| | - Lynn B. Bailey
- The Food Science and Human Nutrition Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Robert J. Berry
- The Division of Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30033, USA;
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Sadiq MF, Al-Refai EA, Al-Nasser A, Khassawneh M, Al-Batayneh Q. Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Polymorphisms C677T and A1298C as Maternal Risk Factors for Down Syndrome in Jordan. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2011; 15:51-7. [DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2010.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- May F. Sadiq
- Department of Biological Sciences, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | - Amjad Al-Nasser
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Khassawneh
- Department of Neonatal Medicine, Medical School, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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Hursthouse NA, Gray AR, Miller JC, Rose MC, Houghton LA. Folate status of reproductive age women and neural tube defect risk: the effect of long-term folic acid supplementation at doses of 140 µg and 400 µg per day. Nutrients 2011; 3:49-62. [PMID: 22254076 PMCID: PMC3257734 DOI: 10.3390/nu3010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2010] [Revised: 12/13/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary prevention of most folate-responsive neural tube defects (NTDs) may not require 400 μg folic acid/day but may be achieved by attaining a high maternal folate status. Using RBC folate ≥906 nmol/L as a marker for NTD risk reduction, the study aimed to determine the change in blood folate concentrations in reproductive age women in response to long-term folic acid supplementation at 400 µg/day and 140 µg/day (dose designed to mimic the average daily folic acid intake received from New Zealand's proposed mandatory bread fortification program). Participants were randomly assigned to a daily folic acid supplement of 140 µg (n = 49), 400 µg (n = 48) or placebo (n = 47) for 40 weeks. RBC folate concentrations were measured at baseline, and after 6, 12, 29 and 40 weeks. At 40 weeks, the overall prevalence of having a RBC folate <906 nmol/L decreased to 18% and 35% in the 400 µg and 140 µg groups, respectively, while remaining relatively unchanged at 58% in the placebo group. After 40 weeks, there was no evidence of a difference in RBC folate between the two treatment groups (P = 0.340), nor was there evidence of a difference in the odds of a RBC folate <906 nmol/L (P = 0.078). In conclusion, the average daily intake of folic acid received from the proposed fortification program would increase RBC folate concentrations in reproductive age women to levels associated with a low risk of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola A. Hursthouse
- Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (N.A.H.); (J.C.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Andrew R. Gray
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
| | - Jody C. Miller
- Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (N.A.H.); (J.C.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Meredith C. Rose
- Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (N.A.H.); (J.C.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Lisa A. Houghton
- Department of Human Nutrition, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (N.A.H.); (J.C.M.); (M.C.R.)
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Thomas DC, Conti DV, Baurley J, Nijhout F, Reed M, Ulrich CM. Use of pathway information in molecular epidemiology. Hum Genomics 2010; 4:21-42. [PMID: 21072972 PMCID: PMC2999471 DOI: 10.1186/1479-7364-4-1-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candidate gene studies are generally motivated by some form of pathway reasoning in the selection of genes to be studied, but seldom has the logic of the approach been carried through to the analysis. Marginal effects of polymorphisms in the selected genes, and occasionally pairwise gene-gene or gene-environment interactions, are often presented, but a unified approach to modelling the entire pathway has been lacking. In this review, a variety of approaches to this problem is considered, focusing on hypothesis-driven rather than purely exploratory methods. Empirical modelling strategies are based on hierarchical models that allow prior knowledge about the structure of the pathway and the various reactions to be included as 'prior covariates'. By contrast, mechanistic models aim to describe the reactions through a system of differential equations with rate parameters that can vary between individuals, based on their genotypes. Some ways of combining the two approaches are suggested and Bayesian model averaging methods for dealing with uncertainty about the true model form in either framework is discussed. Biomarker measurements can be incorporated into such analyses, and two-phase sampling designs stratified on some combination of disease, genes and exposures can be an efficient way of obtaining data that would be too expensive or difficult to obtain on a full candidate gene sample. The review concludes with some thoughts about potential uses of pathways in genome-wide association studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan C Thomas
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP-220, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9011, USA.
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Fekete K, Berti C, Cetin I, Hermoso M, Koletzko BV, Decsi T. Perinatal folate supply: relevance in health outcome parameters. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2010; 6 Suppl 2:23-38. [PMID: 22296249 PMCID: PMC6860862 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-8709.2010.00261.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The importance of physiological supply of folate is well recognized in human health; the crucial roles of folate in one-carbon metabolism for physiological DNA synthesis and cell division, as well as in the conversion of homocysteine (Hcy) to methionine, and subsequently, to S-adenosylmethionine, have been convincingly demonstrated. Improved folate status may reduce the risk of macrocytic anaemia, cardiovascular diseases, neuropsychiatric disorders and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Inadequate folate status results in a decrease in the methylation cycle and in increased blood levels of the neurotoxic Hcy. The aim of this review is to provide insight into the influence of folate status on pregnancy health outcomes, and to consider increasing evidence of a link between the extent of genome/epigenome damage and elevated risk for adverse obstetrical endpoints. Pregnant women are at risk for folate insufficiency because of the increased need for folate for rapid fetal growth, placental development and enlargement of the uterus. Inadequate folate status may cause fetal malformations, impaired fetal growth, pre-term delivery and maternal anaemia. Even some diseases of the placenta may arise from folate deficiencies. Fetal growth seems to be vulnerable to maternal folate status during the periconception period, because it has the potential to affect both the closure of the neural tube and several epigenetic mechanisms within the placenta and the fetus. Mainly on the basis of the well recognized link between maternal folate status and fetal neural tube defects, women are advised to receive folic acid supplement during the periconceptional period. Because an adequate folate supply seems to play an important role in the implantation and development of the placenta and in improving endothelial function, folic acid supplementation in the late first trimester or early second trimester might also be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Fekete
- Nutritional Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pécs, Pécs H‐7623, Hungary
| | - Cristiana Berti
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Hospital ‘L. Sacco’, and Center for Fetal Research Giorgio Pardi, University of Milan, Milano I‐20157, Italy
- ‘Invernizzi Foundation’ Fellowship
| | - Irene Cetin
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Hospital ‘L. Sacco’, and Center for Fetal Research Giorgio Pardi, University of Milan, Milano I‐20157, Italy
| | - Maria Hermoso
- Division of Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Medicine, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital,Ludwig‐Maximilians‐University of Munich, Munich D‐80337, Germany and
| | - Berthold V. Koletzko
- Division of Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Medicine, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital,Ludwig‐Maximilians‐University of Munich, Munich D‐80337, Germany and
| | - Tamás Decsi
- Nutritional Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pécs, Pécs H‐7623, Hungary
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Behunova J, Klimcakova L, Zavadilikova E, Potocekova D, Sykora P, Podracka L. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphisms and neural tube defects epidemiology in the Slovak population. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 88:695-700. [DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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De Castro SCP, Leung KY, Savery D, Burren K, Rozen R, Copp AJ, Greene ND. Neural tube defects induced by folate deficiency in mutant curly tail (Grhl3) embryos are associated with alteration in folate one-carbon metabolism but are unlikely to result from diminished methylation. BIRTH DEFECTS RESEARCH. PART A, CLINICAL AND MOLECULAR TERATOLOGY 2010; 88:612-8. [PMID: 20589880 PMCID: PMC3634156 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folate one-carbon metabolism has been implicated as a determinant of susceptibility to neural tube defects (NTDs), owing to the preventive effect of maternal folic acid supplementation and the higher risk associated with markers of diminished folate status. METHODS Folate one-carbon metabolism was compared in curly tail (ct/ct) and genetically matched congenic (+(ct)/+(ct)) mouse strains using the deoxyuridine suppression test in embryonic fibroblast cells and by quantifying s-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and s-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in embryos using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. A possible genetic interaction between curly tail and a null allele of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) was investigated by generation of compound mutant embryos. RESULTS There was no deficit in thymidylate biosynthesis in ct/ct cells, but incorporation of exogenous thymidine was lower than in +(ct)/+(ct) cells. In +(ct)/+(ct) embryos the SAM/SAH ratio was diminished by dietary folate deficiency and normalized by folic acid or myo-inositol treatment, in association with prevention of NTDs. In contrast, folate deficiency caused a significant increase in the SAM/SAH ratio in ct/ct embryos. Loss of MTHFR function in curly tail embryos significantly reduced the SAM/SAH ratio but did not cause cranial NTDs or alter the frequency of caudal NTDs. CONCLUSIONS Curly tail fibroblasts and embryos, in which Grhl3 expression is reduced, display alterations in one-carbon metabolism, particularly in the response to folate deficiency, compared to genetically matched congenic controls in which Grhl3 is unaffected. However, unlike folate deficiency, diminished methylation potential appears to be insufficient to cause cranial NTDs in the curly tail strain, nor does it increase the frequency of caudal NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kit-yi Leung
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Dawn Savery
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Katie Burren
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | | | - Andrew J. Copp
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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Abstract
Anencephaly results from defects in neural tube closure early in gestation and, to the authors' knowledge, has not been reported in dogs. In this case, the canine fetus was stillborn at the 62nd day of gestation and had a hypoplastic calvarium, with flattened base of the skull and shallow orbits, causing protrusion of the eyes. Macroscopically, the brain was completely missing. Histologically, well-differentiated nerve fibers, fragments of cerebellar folia, and ganglia with large neurons and glial cells were detected in a loose stroma in sections through the cranial bone and adjacent soft tissue in the rudimentary cranial cavity. Immunohistochemically, single cells within the stroma expressed NeuN, consistent with mature neurons, whereas intracranial ganglion cells and nerves had mild expression of doublecortin. The presence of many immature, and only a few mature, neurons in the rudimentary nerve tissue in this case indicates a failure of physiological brain development and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Huisinga
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - M. Reinacher
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - S. Nagel
- Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - C. Herden
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
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Burren KA, Scott JM, Copp AJ, Greene NDE. The genetic background of the curly tail strain confers susceptibility to folate-deficiency-induced exencephaly. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 88:76-83. [PMID: 19824061 PMCID: PMC3071937 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.20632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Suboptimal maternal folate status is considered a risk factor for neural tube defects (NTDs). However, the relationship between dietary folate status and risk of NTDs appears complex, as experimentally induced folate deficiency is insufficient to cause NTDs in nonmutant mice. In contrast, folate deficiency can exacerbate the effect of an NTD-causing mutation, as in splotch mice. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether folate deficiency can induce NTDs in mice with a permissive genetic background which do not normally exhibit defects. METHODS: Folate deficiency was induced in curly tail and genetically matched wild-type mice, and we analyzed the effect on maternal folate status, embryonic growth and development, and frequency of NTDs. RESULTS: Folate-deficient diets resulted in reduced maternal blood folate, elevated homocysteine, and a diminished embryonic folate content. Folate deficiency had a deleterious effect on reproductive success, resulting in smaller litter sizes and an increased rate of resorption. Notably, folate deficiency caused a similar-sized, statistically significant increase in the frequency of cranial NTDs among both curly tail (Grhl3 mutant) embryos and background-matched embryos that are wild type for Grhl3. The latter do not exhibit NTDs under normal dietary conditions. Maternal supplementation with myo-inositol reduced the incidence of NTDs in the folate-deficient wild-type strain. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary folate deficiency can induce cranial NTDs in nonmutant mice with a permissive genetic background, a situation that likely parallels gene-nutrient interactions in human NTDs. Our findings suggest that inositol supplementation may ameliorate NTDs resulting from insufficient dietary folate. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A Burren
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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