1
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Paul MW, Aaron J, Wait E, Van Genderen R, Tyagi A, Kabbech H, Smal I, Chew TL, Kanaar R, Wyman C. Distinct mobility patterns of BRCA2 molecules at DNA damage sites. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:8332-8343. [PMID: 38953170 PMCID: PMC11317164 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BRCA2 is an essential tumor suppressor protein involved in promoting faithful repair of DNA lesions. The activity of BRCA2 needs to be tuned precisely to be active when and where it is needed. Here, we quantified the spatio-temporal dynamics of BRCA2 in living cells using aberration-corrected multifocal microscopy (acMFM). Using multicolor imaging to identify DNA damage sites, we were able to quantify its dynamic motion patterns in the nucleus and at DNA damage sites. While a large fraction of BRCA2 molecules localized near DNA damage sites appear immobile, an additional fraction of molecules exhibits subdiffusive motion, providing a potential mechanism to retain an increased number of molecules at DNA lesions. Super-resolution microscopy revealed inhomogeneous localization of BRCA2 relative to other DNA repair factors at sites of DNA damage. This suggests the presence of multiple nanoscale compartments in the chromatin surrounding the DNA lesion, which could play an important role in the contribution of BRCA2 to the regulation of the repair process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten W Paul
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jesse Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia, Ashburn VA, USA
| | - Eric Wait
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia, Ashburn VA, USA
- Elephas Biosciences, Madison WI, USA
| | - Romano M Van Genderen
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arti Tyagi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Bionanoscience and Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft, Delft, University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Hélène Kabbech
- Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ihor Smal
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Theme Biomedical Sciences, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Roland Kanaar
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claire Wyman
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Oncode Institute, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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2
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Schirripa Spagnolo C, Luin S. Trajectory Analysis in Single-Particle Tracking: From Mean Squared Displacement to Machine Learning Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8660. [PMID: 39201346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Single-particle tracking is a powerful technique to investigate the motion of molecules or particles. Here, we review the methods for analyzing the reconstructed trajectories, a fundamental step for deciphering the underlying mechanisms driving the motion. First, we review the traditional analysis based on the mean squared displacement (MSD), highlighting the sometimes-neglected factors potentially affecting the accuracy of the results. We then report methods that exploit the distribution of parameters other than displacements, e.g., angles, velocities, and times and probabilities of reaching a target, discussing how they are more sensitive in characterizing heterogeneities and transient behaviors masked in the MSD analysis. Hidden Markov Models are also used for this purpose, and these allow for the identification of different states, their populations and the switching kinetics. Finally, we discuss a rapidly expanding field-trajectory analysis based on machine learning. Various approaches, from random forest to deep learning, are used to classify trajectory motions, which can be identified by motion models or by model-free sets of trajectory features, either previously defined or automatically identified by the algorithms. We also review free software available for some of the analysis methods. We emphasize that approaches based on a combination of the different methods, including classical statistics and machine learning, may be the way to obtain the most informative and accurate results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefano Luin
- NEST Laboratory, Scuola Normale Superiore, Piazza San Silvestro 12, I-56127 Pisa, Italy
- NEST Laboratory, Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Piazza San Silvestro 12, I-56127 Pisa, Italy
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3
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Lee RM, Eisenman LR, Khuon S, Aaron JS, Chew TL. Believing is seeing - the deceptive influence of bias in quantitative microscopy. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261567. [PMID: 38197776 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The visual allure of microscopy makes it an intuitively powerful research tool. Intuition, however, can easily obscure or distort the reality of the information contained in an image. Common cognitive biases, combined with institutional pressures that reward positive research results, can quickly skew a microscopy project towards upholding, rather than rigorously challenging, a hypothesis. The impact of these biases on a variety of research topics is well known. What might be less appreciated are the many forms in which bias can permeate a microscopy experiment. Even well-intentioned researchers are susceptible to bias, which must therefore be actively recognized to be mitigated. Importantly, although image quantification has increasingly become an expectation, ostensibly to confront subtle biases, it is not a guarantee against bias and cannot alone shield an experiment from cognitive distortions. Here, we provide illustrative examples of the insidiously pervasive nature of bias in microscopy experiments - from initial experimental design to image acquisition, analysis and data interpretation. We then provide suggestions that can serve as guard rails against bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M Lee
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Leanna R Eisenman
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Satya Khuon
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Jesse S Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
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4
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dos Santos Á, Fili N, Hari-Gupta Y, Gough RE, Wang L, Martin-Fernandez M, Aaron J, Wait E, Chew TL, Toseland CP. Binding partners regulate unfolding of myosin VI to activate the molecular motor. Biochem J 2022; 479:1409-1428. [PMID: 35722941 PMCID: PMC9342898 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20220025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Myosin VI is the only minus-end actin motor and it is coupled to various cellular processes ranging from endocytosis to transcription. This multi-potent nature is achieved through alternative isoform splicing and interactions with a network of binding partners. There is a complex interplay between isoforms and binding partners to regulate myosin VI. Here, we have compared the regulation of two myosin VI splice isoforms by two different binding partners. By combining biochemical and single-molecule approaches, we propose that myosin VI regulation follows a generic mechanism, independently of the spliced isoform and the binding partner involved. We describe how myosin VI adopts an autoinhibited backfolded state which is released by binding partners. This unfolding activates the motor, enhances actin binding and can subsequently trigger dimerization. We have further expanded our study by using single-molecule imaging to investigate the impact of binding partners upon myosin VI molecular organization and dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ália dos Santos
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, U.K
| | - Natalia Fili
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, U.K
| | - Yukti Hari-Gupta
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, U.K
| | - Rosemarie E. Gough
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, U.K
| | - Lin Wang
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford OX11 0QX, U.K
| | - Marisa Martin-Fernandez
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford OX11 0QX, U.K
| | - Jesse Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, U.S.A
| | - Eric Wait
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, U.S.A
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, U.S.A
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5
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Hari-Gupta Y, Fili N, dos Santos Á, Cook AW, Gough RE, Reed HCW, Wang L, Aaron J, Venit T, Wait E, Grosse-Berkenbusch A, Gebhardt JCM, Percipalle P, Chew TL, Martin-Fernandez M, Toseland CP. Myosin VI regulates the spatial organisation of mammalian transcription initiation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1346. [PMID: 35292632 PMCID: PMC8924246 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28962-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During transcription, RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) is spatially organised within the nucleus into clusters that correlate with transcription activity. While this is a hallmark of genome regulation in mammalian cells, the mechanisms concerning the assembly, organisation and stability remain unknown. Here, we have used combination of single molecule imaging and genomic approaches to explore the role of nuclear myosin VI (MVI) in the nanoscale organisation of RNAPII. We reveal that MVI in the nucleus acts as the molecular anchor that holds RNAPII in high density clusters. Perturbation of MVI leads to the disruption of RNAPII localisation, chromatin organisation and subsequently a decrease in gene expression. Overall, we uncover the fundamental role of MVI in the spatial regulation of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukti Hari-Gupta
- grid.9759.20000 0001 2232 2818School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Present Address: MRC LMCB, University College London, London, UK
| | - Natalia Fili
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK ,grid.36511.300000 0004 0420 4262Present Address: School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Ália dos Santos
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Alexander W. Cook
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Rosemarie E. Gough
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Hannah C. W. Reed
- grid.9759.20000 0001 2232 2818School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Lin Wang
- grid.76978.370000 0001 2296 6998Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford, UK
| | - Jesse Aaron
- grid.443970.dAdvanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA USA
| | - Tomas Venit
- grid.440573.10000 0004 1755 5934Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eric Wait
- grid.443970.dAdvanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA USA
| | | | | | - Piergiorgio Percipalle
- grid.440573.10000 0004 1755 5934Science Division, Biology Program, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates ,grid.10548.380000 0004 1936 9377Department of Molecular Bioscience, The Wenner Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, SE Sweden
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- grid.443970.dAdvanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA USA
| | - Marisa Martin-Fernandez
- grid.76978.370000 0001 2296 6998Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher P. Toseland
- grid.11835.3e0000 0004 1936 9262Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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6
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Reiche MA, Aaron JS, Boehm U, DeSantis MC, Hobson CM, Khuon S, Lee RM, Chew TL. When light meets biology - how the specimen affects quantitative microscopy. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274812. [PMID: 35319069 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluorescence microscopy images should not be treated as perfect representations of biology. Many factors within the biospecimen itself can drastically affect quantitative microscopy data. Whereas some sample-specific considerations, such as photobleaching and autofluorescence, are more commonly discussed, a holistic discussion of sample-related issues (which includes less-routine topics such as quenching, scattering and biological anisotropy) is required to appropriately guide life scientists through the subtleties inherent to bioimaging. Here, we consider how the interplay between light and a sample can cause common experimental pitfalls and unanticipated errors when drawing biological conclusions. Although some of these discrepancies can be minimized or controlled for, others require more pragmatic considerations when interpreting image data. Ultimately, the power lies in the hands of the experimenter. The goal of this Review is therefore to survey how biological samples can skew quantification and interpretation of microscopy data. Furthermore, we offer a perspective on how to manage many of these potential pitfalls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Reiche
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Jesse S Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Ulrike Boehm
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Michael C DeSantis
- Light Microscopy Facility, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147,USA
| | - Chad M Hobson
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Satya Khuon
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Rachel M Lee
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA.,Light Microscopy Facility, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147,USA
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7
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Filbrun SL, Zhao F, Chen K, Huang TX, Yang M, Cheng X, Dong B, Fang N. Imaging Dynamic Processes in Multiple Dimensions and Length Scales. Annu Rev Phys Chem 2022; 73:377-402. [PMID: 35119943 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physchem-090519-034100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Optical microscopy has become an invaluable tool for investigating complex samples. Over the years, many advances to optical microscopes have been made that have allowed us to uncover new insights into the samples studied. Dynamic changes in biological and chemical systems are of utmost importance to study. To probe these samples, multidimensional approaches have been developed to acquire a fuller understanding of the system of interest. These dimensions include the spatial information, such as the three-dimensional coordinates and orientation of the optical probes, and additional chemical and physical properties through combining microscopy with various spectroscopic techniques. In this review, we survey the field of multidimensional microscopy and provide an outlook on the field and challenges that may arise. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Physical Chemistry, Volume 73 is April 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth L Filbrun
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fei Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kuangcai Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.,Imaging Core Facility, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Teng-Xiang Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Meek Yang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA;
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen Key Laboratory of Analytical Molecular Nanotechnology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; ,
| | - Bin Dong
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA;
| | - Ning Fang
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and Instrumentation, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen Key Laboratory of Analytical Molecular Nanotechnology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; ,
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8
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Kuhn T, Hettich J, Davtyan R, Gebhardt JCM. Single molecule tracking and analysis framework including theory-predicted parameter settings. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9465. [PMID: 33947895 PMCID: PMC8096815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88802-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Imaging, tracking and analyzing individual biomolecules in living systems is a powerful technology to obtain quantitative kinetic and spatial information such as reaction rates, diffusion coefficients and localization maps. Common tracking tools often operate on single movies and require additional manual steps to analyze whole data sets or to compare different experimental conditions. We report a fast and comprehensive single molecule tracking and analysis framework (TrackIt) to simultaneously process several multi-movie data sets. A user-friendly GUI offers convenient tracking visualization, multiple state-of-the-art analysis procedures, display of results, and data im- and export at different levels to utilize external software tools. We applied our framework to quantify dissociation rates of a transcription factor in the nucleus and found that tracking errors, similar to fluorophore photobleaching, have to be considered for reliable analysis. Accordingly, we developed an algorithm, which accounts for both tracking losses and suggests optimized tracking parameters when evaluating reaction rates. Our versatile and extensible framework facilitates quantitative analysis of single molecule experiments at different experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Kuhn
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Biophysics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Johannes Hettich
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Biophysics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Rubina Davtyan
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Biophysics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany ,grid.4514.40000 0001 0930 2361Present Address: NanoLund and Solid State Physics, Lund University, Box 118, 22100 Lund, Sweden
| | - J. Christof M. Gebhardt
- grid.6582.90000 0004 1936 9748Institute of Biophysics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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9
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Aaron J, Chew TL. A guide to accurate reporting in digital image processing - can anyone reproduce your quantitative analysis? J Cell Sci 2021; 134:134/6/jcs254151. [PMID: 33785609 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.254151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Considerable attention has been recently paid to improving replicability and reproducibility in life science research. This has resulted in commendable efforts to standardize a variety of reagents, assays, cell lines and other resources. However, given that microscopy is a dominant tool for biologists, comparatively little discussion has been offered regarding how the proper reporting and documentation of microscopy relevant details should be handled. Image processing is a critical step of almost any microscopy-based experiment; however, improper, or incomplete reporting of its use in the literature is pervasive. The chosen details of an image processing workflow can dramatically determine the outcome of subsequent analyses, and indeed, the overall conclusions of a study. This Review aims to illustrate how proper reporting of image processing methodology improves scientific reproducibility and strengthens the biological conclusions derived from the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
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10
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Heddleston JM, Aaron JS, Khuon S, Chew TL. A guide to accurate reporting in digital image acquisition - can anyone replicate your microscopy data? J Cell Sci 2021; 134:134/6/jcs254144. [PMID: 33785608 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.254144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent technological advances have made microscopy indispensable in life science research. Its ubiquitous use, in turn, underscores the importance of ensuring that microscopy-based experiments are replicable and that the resulting data comparable. While there has been a wealth of review articles, practical guides and conferences devoted to the topic of maintaining standard instrument operating conditions, the paucity of attention dedicated to properly documenting microscopy experiments is undeniable. This lack of emphasis on accurate reporting extends beyond life science researchers themselves, to the review panels and editorial boards of many journals. Such oversight at the final step of communicating a scientific discovery can unfortunately negate the many valiant efforts made to ensure experimental quality control in the name of scientific reproducibility. This Review aims to enumerate the various parameters that should be reported in an imaging experiment by illustrating how their inconsistent application can lead to irreconcilable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Heddleston
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Jesse S Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Satya Khuon
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
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11
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Winter MR, Morgulis M, Gildor T, Cohen AR, Ben-Tabou de-Leon S. Calcium-vesicles perform active diffusion in the sea urchin embryo during larval biomineralization. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008780. [PMID: 33617532 PMCID: PMC7932551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomineralization is the process by which organisms use minerals to harden their tissues and provide them with physical support. Biomineralizing cells concentrate the mineral in vesicles that they secret into a dedicated compartment where crystallization occurs. The dynamics of vesicle motion and the molecular mechanisms that control it, are not well understood. Sea urchin larval skeletogenesis provides an excellent platform for investigating the kinetics of mineral-bearing vesicles. Here we used lattice light-sheet microscopy to study the three-dimensional (3D) dynamics of calcium-bearing vesicles in the cells of normal sea urchin embryos and of embryos where skeletogenesis is blocked through the inhibition of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR). We developed computational tools for displaying 3D-volumetric movies and for automatically quantifying vesicle dynamics. Our findings imply that calcium vesicles perform an active diffusion motion in both, calcifying (skeletogenic) and non-calcifying (ectodermal) cells of the embryo. The diffusion coefficient and vesicle speed are larger in the mesenchymal skeletogenic cells compared to the epithelial ectodermal cells. These differences are possibly due to the distinct mechanical properties of the two tissues, demonstrated by the enhanced f-actin accumulation and myosinII activity in the ectodermal cells compared to the skeletogenic cells. Vesicle motion is not directed toward the biomineralization compartment, but the vesicles slow down when they approach it, and probably bind for mineral deposition. VEGFR inhibition leads to an increase of vesicle volume but hardly changes vesicle kinetics and doesn’t affect f-actin accumulation and myosinII activity. Thus, calcium vesicles perform an active diffusion motion in the cells of the sea urchin embryo, with diffusion length and speed that inversely correlate with the strength of the actomyosin network. Overall, our studies provide an unprecedented view of calcium vesicle 3D-dynamics and point toward cytoskeleton remodeling as an important effector of the motion of mineral-bearing vesicles. Biomineralization is a widespread, fundamental process by which organisms use minerals to harden their tissues. Mineral-bearing vesicles were observed in biomineralizing cells and play an essential role in biomineralization, yet little is known about their three-dimensional (3D) dynamics. Here we quantify 3D-vesicle-dynamics during calcite skeleton formation in sea urchin larvae, using lattice-light-sheet microscopy. We discover that calcium vesicles perform a diffusive motion in both calcifying and non-calcifying cells of the embryo. The diffusion coefficient and vesicle speed are higher in the mesenchymal skeletogenic cells compared to the epithelial ectodermal cells. This difference is possibly due to the higher rigidity of the ectodermal cells as demonstrated by the enhanced signal of f-actin and myosinII activity in these cells compared to the skeletogenic cells. The motion of the vesicles in the skeletogenic cells, is not directed toward the biomineralization compartment but the vesicles slow down near it, possibly to deposit their content. Blocking skeletogenesis through the inhibition of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR), increases vesicle volume but doesn’t change the diffusion mode and the cytoskeleton markers in the cells. Our studies reveal the active diffusive motion of mineral bearing vesicles that is apparently defined by the mechanical properties of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R. Winter
- Marine Biology Department, Charney School of Marine Sciences, the University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- * E-mail: (MRW); (SBD)
| | - Miri Morgulis
- Marine Biology Department, Charney School of Marine Sciences, the University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tsvia Gildor
- Marine Biology Department, Charney School of Marine Sciences, the University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Andrew R. Cohen
- Dept of Electrical Engineering, Drexel University, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Smadar Ben-Tabou de-Leon
- Marine Biology Department, Charney School of Marine Sciences, the University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- * E-mail: (MRW); (SBD)
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12
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Abstract
Over the last 30 years, confocal microscopy has emerged as a primary tool for biological investigation across many disciplines. The simplicity of use and widespread accessibility of confocal microscopy ensure that it will have a prominent place in biological imaging for many years to come, even with the recent advances in light sheet and field synthesis microscopy. Since these more advanced technologies still require significant expertise to effectively implement and carry through to analysis, confocal microscopy-based approaches still remain the easiest way for biologists with minimal imaging experience to address fundamental questions about how their systems are arranged through space and time. In this review, we discuss a number of advanced applications of confocal microscopy for probing the spatiotemporal dynamics of biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Matt Reilly
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA.,Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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13
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dos Santos Á, Cook AW, Gough RE, Schilling M, Olszok N, Brown I, Wang L, Aaron J, Martin-Fernandez ML, Rehfeldt F, Toseland CP. DNA damage alters nuclear mechanics through chromatin reorganization. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 49:340-353. [PMID: 33330932 PMCID: PMC7797048 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa1202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks drive genomic instability. However, it remains unknown how these processes may affect the biomechanical properties of the nucleus and what role nuclear mechanics play in DNA damage and repair efficiency. Here, we have used Atomic Force Microscopy to investigate nuclear mechanical changes, arising from externally induced DNA damage. We found that nuclear stiffness is significantly reduced after cisplatin treatment, as a consequence of DNA damage signalling. This softening was linked to global chromatin decondensation, which improves molecular diffusion within the organelle. We propose that this can increase recruitment for repair factors. Interestingly, we also found that reduction of nuclear tension, through cytoskeletal relaxation, has a protective role to the cell and reduces accumulation of DNA damage. Overall, these changes protect against further genomic instability and promote DNA repair. We propose that these processes may underpin the development of drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ália dos Santos
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Alexander W Cook
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Rosemarie E Gough
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
| | - Martin Schilling
- University of Göttingen, 3rd Institute of Physics—Biophysics, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Nora A Olszok
- University of Göttingen, 3rd Institute of Physics—Biophysics, Göttingen 37077, Germany
| | - Ian Brown
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Lin Wang
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford OX11 0QX, UK
| | - Jesse Aaron
- Advanced Imaging Center, HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Marisa L Martin-Fernandez
- Central Laser Facility, Research Complex at Harwell, Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Didcot, Oxford OX11 0QX, UK
| | - Florian Rehfeldt
- Correspondence may also be addressed to Florian Rehfeldt. Tel: +49 921 55 2504;
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Wait EC, Reiche MA, Chew TL. Hypothesis-driven quantitative fluorescence microscopy - the importance of reverse-thinking in experimental design. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:133/21/jcs250027. [PMID: 33154172 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.250027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the challenges in modern fluorescence microscopy is to reconcile the conventional utilization of microscopes as exploratory instruments with their emerging and rapidly expanding role as a quantitative tools. The contribution of microscopy to observational biology will remain enormous owing to the improvements in acquisition speed, imaging depth, resolution and biocompatibility of modern imaging instruments. However, the use of fluorescence microscopy to facilitate the quantitative measurements necessary to challenge hypotheses is a relatively recent concept, made possible by advanced optics, functional imaging probes and rapidly increasing computational power. We argue here that to fully leverage the rapidly evolving application of microscopes in hypothesis-driven biology, we not only need to ensure that images are acquired quantitatively but must also re-evaluate how microscopy-based experiments are designed. In this Opinion, we present a reverse logic that guides the design of quantitative fluorescence microscopy experiments. This unique approach starts from identifying the results that would quantitatively inform the hypothesis and map the process backward to microscope selection. This ensures that the quantitative aspects of testing the hypothesis remain the central focus of the entire experimental design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C Wait
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Michael A Reiche
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Teng-Leong Chew
- Advanced Imaging Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
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