1
|
Mfarej MG, Hyland CA, Sanchez AC, Falk MM, Iovine MK, Skibbens RV. Cohesin: an emerging master regulator at the heart of cardiac development. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:rs2. [PMID: 36947206 PMCID: PMC10162415 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e22-12-0557] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cohesins are ATPase complexes that play central roles in cellular processes such as chromosome division, DNA repair, and gene expression. Cohesinopathies arise from mutations in cohesin proteins or cohesin complex regulators and encompass a family of related developmental disorders that present with a range of severe birth defects, affect many different physiological systems, and often lead to embryonic fatality. Treatments for cohesinopathies are limited, in large part due to the lack of understanding of cohesin biology. Thus, characterizing the signaling networks that lie upstream and downstream of cohesin-dependent pathways remains clinically relevant. Here, we highlight alterations in cohesins and cohesin regulators that result in cohesinopathies, with a focus on cardiac defects. In addition, we suggest a novel and more unifying view regarding the mechanisms through which cohesinopathy-based heart defects may arise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G. Mfarej
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| | - Caitlin A. Hyland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| | - Annie C. Sanchez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| | - Matthias M. Falk
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| | - M. Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| | - Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahi EP, Richter F, Sefc KM. Gene expression patterns associated with caudal fin shape in the cichlid Lamprologus tigripictilis. HYDROBIOLOGIA 2022; 850:2257-2273. [PMID: 37325486 PMCID: PMC10261199 DOI: 10.1007/s10750-022-05068-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Variation in fin shape is one of the most prominent features of morphological diversity among fish. Regulation of fin growth has mainly been studied in zebrafish, and it is not clear whether the molecular mechanisms underlying shape variation are equally diverse or rather conserved across species. In the present study, expression levels of 37 candidate genes were tested for association with fin shape in the cichlid fish Lamprologus tigripictilis. The tested genes included members of a fin shape-associated gene regulatory network identified in a previous study and novel candidates selected within this study. Using both intact and regenerating fin tissue, we tested for expression differences between the elongated and the short regions of the spade-shaped caudal fin and identified 20 genes and transcription factors (including angptl5, cd63, csrp1a, cx43, esco2, gbf1, and rbpj), whose expression patterns were consistent with a role in fin growth. Collated with available gene expression data of two other cichlid species, our study not only highlights several genes that were correlated with fin growth in all three species (e.g., angptl5, cd63, cx43, and mmp9), but also reveals species-specific gene expression and correlation patterns, which indicate considerable divergence in the regulatory mechanisms of fin growth across cichlids. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10750-022-05068-4.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Pashay Ahi
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria
- Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 9, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Florian Richter
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Kristina M. Sefc
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Field CJ, Perez AM, Samet T, Ricles V, Iovine MK, Lowe-Krentz LJ. Involvement of transmembrane protein 184a during angiogenesis in zebrafish embryos. Front Physiol 2022; 13:845407. [PMID: 36117693 PMCID: PMC9478037 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.845407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis, the outgrowth of new blood vessels from existing vasculature, is critical during development, tissue formation, and wound healing. In response to vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), endothelial cells are activated to proliferate and move towards the signal, extending the vessel. These events are directed by VEGF-VEGF receptor (Vegfr2) signal transduction, which in turn is modulated by heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). HSPGs are glycoproteins covalently attached to HS glycosaminoglycan chains. Transmembrane protein 184a (Tmem184a) has been recently identified as a heparin receptor, which is believed to bind heparan sulfate chains in vivo. Therefore, Tmem184a has the potential to fine-tune interactions between VEGF and HS, modulating Vegfr2-dependent angiogenesis. The function of Tmem184a has been investigated in the regenerating zebrafish caudal fin, but its role has yet to be evaluated during developmental angiogenesis. Here we provide insights into how Tmem184a contributes to the proper formation of the vasculature in zebrafish embryos. First, we find that knockdown of Tmem184a causes a reduction in the number of intact intersegmental vessels (ISVs) in the zebrafish embryo. This phenotype mimics that of vegfr2b knockout mutants, which have previously been shown to exhibit severe defects in ISV development. We then test the importance of HS interactions by removing the binding domain within the Tmem184a protein, which has a negative effect on angiogenesis. Tmem184a is found to act synergistically with Vegfr2b, indicating that the two gene products function in a common pathway to modulate angiogenesis. Moreover, we find that knockdown of Tmem184a leads to an increase in endothelial cell proliferation but a decrease in the amount of VE-cadherin present. Together, these findings suggest that Tmem184a is necessary for ISVs to organize into mature, complete vessels.
Collapse
|
4
|
Buskirk S, Skibbens RV. G1-Cyclin2 (Cln2) promotes chromosome hypercondensation in eco1/ctf7 rad61 null cells during hyperthermic stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2022; 12:6613937. [PMID: 35736360 PMCID: PMC9339302 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkac157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Eco1/Ctf7 is a highly conserved acetyltransferase that activates cohesin complexes and is critical for sister chromatid cohesion, chromosome condensation, DNA damage repair, nucleolar integrity, and gene transcription. Mutations in the human homolog of ECO1 (ESCO2/EFO2), or in genes that encode cohesin subunits, result in severe developmental abnormalities and intellectual disabilities referred to as Roberts syndrome and Cornelia de Lange syndrome, respectively. In yeast, deletion of ECO1 results in cell inviability. Codeletion of RAD61 (WAPL in humans), however, produces viable yeast cells. These eco1 rad61 double mutants, however, exhibit a severe temperature-sensitive growth defect, suggesting that Eco1 or cohesins respond to hyperthermic stress through a mechanism that occurs independent of Rad61. Here, we report that deletion of the G1 cyclin CLN2 rescues the temperature-sensitive lethality otherwise exhibited by eco1 rad61 mutant cells, such that the triple mutant cells exhibit robust growth over a broad range of temperatures. While Cln1, Cln2, and Cln3 are functionally redundant G1 cyclins, neither CLN1 nor CLN3 deletions rescue the temperature-sensitive growth defects otherwise exhibited by eco1 rad61 double mutants. We further provide evidence that CLN2 deletion rescues hyperthermic growth defects independent of START and impacts the state of chromosome condensation. These findings reveal novel roles for Cln2 that are unique among the G1 cyclin family and appear critical for cohesin regulation during hyperthermic stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Buskirk
- Department of Biology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA 19383, USA
| | - Robert V Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sanchez AC, Thren ED, Iovine MK, Skibbens RV. Esco2 and cohesin regulate CRL4 ubiquitin ligase ddb1 expression and thalidomide teratogenicity. Cell Cycle 2022; 21:501-513. [PMID: 34989322 PMCID: PMC8942496 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2021.2023304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) and Roberts syndrome (RBS) are severe developmental maladies that arise from mutation of cohesin (including SMC3, CdLS) and ESCO2 (RBS). Though ESCO2 activates cohesin, CdLS and RBS etiologies are currently considered non-synonymous and for which pharmacological treatments are unavailable. Here, we identify a unifying mechanism that integrates these genetic maladies to pharmacologically-induced teratogenicity via thalidomide. Our results reveal that Esco2 and cohesin co-regulate the transcription of a component of CRL4 ubiquitin ligase through which thalidomide exerts teratogenic effects. These findings are the first to link RBS and CdLS to thalidomide teratogenicity and offer new insights into treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annie C. Sanchez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - Elise D. Thren
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - M. Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mfarej MG, Skibbens RV. Genetically induced redox stress occurs in a yeast model for Roberts syndrome. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2022; 12:6460337. [PMID: 34897432 PMCID: PMC9210317 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkab426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Roberts syndrome (RBS) is a multispectrum developmental disorder characterized by severe limb, craniofacial, and organ abnormalities and often intellectual disabilities. The genetic basis of RBS is rooted in loss-of-function mutations in the essential N-acetyltransferase ESCO2 which is conserved from yeast (Eco1/Ctf7) to humans. ESCO2/Eco1 regulate many cellular processes that impact chromatin structure, chromosome transmission, gene expression, and repair of the genome. The etiology of RBS remains contentious with current models that include transcriptional dysregulation or mitotic failure. Here, we report evidence that supports an emerging model rooted in defective DNA damage responses. First, the results reveal that redox stress is elevated in both eco1 and cohesion factor Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant cells. Second, we provide evidence that Eco1 and cohesion factors are required for the repair of oxidative DNA damage such that ECO1 and cohesin gene mutations result in reduced cell viability and hyperactivation of DNA damage checkpoints that occur in response to oxidative stress. Moreover, we show that mutation of ECO1 is solely sufficient to induce endogenous redox stress and sensitizes mutant cells to exogenous genotoxic challenges. Remarkably, antioxidant treatment desensitizes eco1 mutant cells to a range of DNA damaging agents, raising the possibility that modulating the cellular redox state may represent an important avenue of treatment for RBS and tumors that bear ESCO2 mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Mfarej
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Robert V Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Marí-Beffa M, Mesa-Román AB, Duran I. Zebrafish Models for Human Skeletal Disorders. Front Genet 2021; 12:675331. [PMID: 34490030 PMCID: PMC8418114 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.675331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2019, the Nosology Committee of the International Skeletal Dysplasia Society provided an updated version of the Nosology and Classification of Genetic Skeletal Disorders. This is a reference list of recognized diseases in humans and their causal genes published to help clinician diagnosis and scientific research advances. Complementary to mammalian models, zebrafish has emerged as an interesting species to evaluate chemical treatments against these human skeletal disorders. Due to its versatility and the low cost of experiments, more than 80 models are currently available. In this article, we review the state-of-art of this “aquarium to bedside” approach describing the models according to the list provided by the Nosology Committee. With this, we intend to stimulate research in the appropriate direction to efficiently meet the actual needs of clinicians under the scope of the Nosology Committee.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Marí-Beffa
- Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ana B Mesa-Román
- Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ivan Duran
- Department of Cell Biology, Genetics and Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, IBIMA, Málaga, Spain.,Networking Biomedical Research Center in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Andalusian Centre for Nanomedicine and Biotechnology-BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Srivastava P, Kane A, Harrison C, Levin M. A Meta-Analysis of Bioelectric Data in Cancer, Embryogenesis, and Regeneration. Bioelectricity 2021; 3:42-67. [PMID: 34476377 DOI: 10.1089/bioe.2019.0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental bioelectricity is the study of the endogenous role of bioelectrical signaling in all cell types. Resting potentials and other aspects of ionic cell physiology are known to be important regulatory parameters in embryogenesis, regeneration, and cancer. However, relevant quantitative measurement and genetic phenotyping data are distributed throughout wide-ranging literature, hampering experimental design and hypothesis generation. Here, we analyze published studies on bioelectrics and transcriptomic and genomic/phenotypic databases to provide a novel synthesis of what is known in three important aspects of bioelectrics research. First, we provide a comprehensive list of channelopathies-ion channel and pump gene mutations-in a range of important model systems with developmental patterning phenotypes, illustrating the breadth of channel types, tissues, and phyla (including man) in which bioelectric signaling is a critical endogenous aspect of embryogenesis. Second, we perform a novel bioinformatic analysis of transcriptomic data during regeneration in diverse taxa that reveals an electrogenic protein to be the one common factor specifically expressed in regeneration blastemas across Kingdoms. Finally, we analyze data on distinct Vmem signatures in normal and cancer cells, revealing a specific bioelectrical signature corresponding to some types of malignancies. These analyses shed light on fundamental questions in developmental bioelectricity and suggest new avenues for research in this exciting field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pranjal Srivastava
- Rye High School, Rye, New York, USA; Current Affiliation: College of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Anna Kane
- Department of Biology, Allen Discovery Center, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina Harrison
- Department of Biology, Allen Discovery Center, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael Levin
- Department of Biology, Allen Discovery Center, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Genome-wide signatures of mammalian skin covering evolution. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2021; 64:1765-1780. [PMID: 33481165 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-020-1841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Animal body coverings provide protection and allow for adaptation to environmental pressures such as heat, ultraviolet radiation, water loss, and mechanical forces. Here, using a comparative genomics analysis of 39 mammal species spanning three skin covering types (hairless, scaly and spiny), we found some genes (e.g., UVRAG, POLH, and XPC) involved in skin inflammation, skin innate immunity, and ultraviolet radiation damage repair were under selection in hairless ocean mammals (e.g., whales and manatees). These signatures might be associated with a high risk of skin diseases from pathogens and ultraviolet radiation. Moreover, the genomes from three spiny mammal species shared convergent genomic regions (EPHB2, EPHA4, and NIN) and unique positively selected genes (FZD6, INVS, and CDC42) involved in skin cell polarity, which might be related to the development of spines. In scaly mammals, the shared convergent genomic regions (e.g., FREM2) were associated with the integrity of the skin epithelium and epidermal adhesion. This study identifies potential convergent genomic features among distantly related mammals with the same skin covering type.
Collapse
|
10
|
Mfarej MG, Skibbens RV. DNA damage induces Yap5-dependent transcription of ECO1/CTF7 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242968. [PMID: 33373396 PMCID: PMC7771704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Yeast Eco1 (ESCO2 in humans) acetyltransferase converts chromatin-bound cohesins to a DNA tethering state, thereby establishing sister chromatid cohesion. Eco1 establishes cohesion during DNA replication, after which Eco1 is targeted for degradation by SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase. SCF E3 ligase, and sequential phosphorylations that promote Eco1 ubiquitination and degradation, remain active throughout the M phase. In this way, Eco1 protein levels are high during S phase, but remain low throughout the remaining cell cycle. In response to DNA damage during M phase, however, Eco1 activity increases-providing for a new wave of cohesion establishment (termed Damage-Induced Cohesion, or DIC) which is critical for efficient DNA repair. To date, little evidence exists as to the mechanism through which Eco1 activity increases during M phase in response to DNA damage. Possibilities include that either the kinases or E3 ligase, that target Eco1 for degradation, are inhibited in response to DNA damage. Our results reveal instead that the degradation machinery remains fully active during M phase, despite the presence of DNA damage. In testing alternate models through which Eco1 activity increases in response to DNA damage, the results reveal that DNA damage induces new transcription of ECO1 and at a rate that exceeds the rate of Eco1 turnover, providing for rapid accumulation of Eco1 protein. We further show that DNA damage induction of ECO1 transcription is in part regulated by Yap5-a stress-induced transcription factor. Given the role for mutated ESCO2 (homolog of ECO1) in human birth defects, this study highlights the complex nature through which mutation of ESCO2, and defects in ESCO2 regulation, may promote developmental abnormalities and contribute to various diseases including cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G. Mfarej
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mfarej MG, Skibbens RV. An ever-changing landscape in Roberts syndrome biology: Implications for macromolecular damage. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1009219. [PMID: 33382686 PMCID: PMC7774850 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Roberts syndrome (RBS) is a rare developmental disorder that can include craniofacial abnormalities, limb malformations, missing digits, intellectual disabilities, stillbirth, and early mortality. The genetic basis for RBS is linked to autosomal recessive loss-of-function mutation of the establishment of cohesion (ESCO) 2 acetyltransferase. ESCO2 is an essential gene that targets the DNA-binding cohesin complex. ESCO2 acetylates alternate subunits of cohesin to orchestrate vital cellular processes that include sister chromatid cohesion, chromosome condensation, transcription, and DNA repair. Although significant advances were made over the last 20 years in our understanding of ESCO2 and cohesin biology, the molecular etiology of RBS remains ambiguous. In this review, we highlight current models of RBS and reflect on data that suggests a novel role for macromolecular damage in the molecular etiology of RBS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael G. Mfarej
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zuilkoski CM, Skibbens RV. PCNA antagonizes cohesin-dependent roles in genomic stability. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0235103. [PMID: 33075068 PMCID: PMC7571713 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0235103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PCNA sliding clamp binds factors through which histone deposition, chromatin remodeling, and DNA repair are coupled to DNA replication. PCNA also directly binds Eco1/Ctf7 acetyltransferase, which in turn activates cohesins and establishes cohesion between nascent sister chromatids. While increased recruitment thus explains the mechanism through which elevated levels of chromatin-bound PCNA rescue eco1 mutant cell growth, the mechanism through which PCNA instead worsens cohesin mutant cell growth remains unknown. Possibilities include that elevated levels of long-lived chromatin-bound PCNA reduce either cohesin deposition onto DNA or cohesin acetylation. Instead, our results reveal that PCNA increases the levels of both chromatin-bound cohesin and cohesin acetylation. Beyond sister chromatid cohesion, PCNA also plays a critical role in genomic stability such that high levels of chromatin-bound PCNA elevate genotoxic sensitivities and recombination rates. At a relatively modest increase of chromatin-bound PCNA, however, fork stability and progression appear normal in wildtype cells. Our results reveal that even a moderate increase of PCNA indeed sensitizes cohesin mutant cells to DNA damaging agents and in a process that involves the DNA damage response kinase Mec1(ATR), but not Tel1(ATM). These and other findings suggest that PCNA mis-regulation results in genome instabilities that normally are resolved by cohesin. Elevating levels of chromatin-bound PCNA may thus help target cohesinopathic cells linked that are linked to cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin M. Zuilkoski
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Faramarz A, Balk JA, van Schie JJM, Oostra AB, Ghandour CA, Rooimans MA, Wolthuis RMF, de Lange J. Non-redundant roles in sister chromatid cohesion of the DNA helicase DDX11 and the SMC3 acetyl transferases ESCO1 and ESCO2. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0220348. [PMID: 31935221 PMCID: PMC6959578 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In a process linked to DNA replication, duplicated chromosomes are entrapped in large, circular cohesin complexes and functional sister chromatid cohesion (SCC) is established by acetylation of the SMC3 cohesin subunit. Roberts Syndrome (RBS) and Warsaw Breakage Syndrome (WABS) are rare human developmental syndromes that are characterized by defective SCC. RBS is caused by mutations in the SMC3 acetyltransferase ESCO2, whereas mutations in the DNA helicase DDX11 lead to WABS. We found that WABS-derived cells predominantly rely on ESCO2, not ESCO1, for residual SCC, growth and survival. Reciprocally, RBS-derived cells depend on DDX11 to maintain low levels of SCC. Synthetic lethality between DDX11 and ESCO2 correlated with a prolonged delay in mitosis, and was rescued by knockdown of the cohesin remover WAPL. Rescue experiments using human or mouse cDNAs revealed that DDX11, ESCO1 and ESCO2 act on different but related aspects of SCC establishment. Furthermore, a DNA binding DDX11 mutant failed to correct SCC in WABS cells and DDX11 deficiency reduced replication fork speed. We propose that DDX11, ESCO1 and ESCO2 control different fractions of cohesin that are spatially and mechanistically separated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atiq Faramarz
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jesper A. Balk
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janne J. M. van Schie
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anneke B. Oostra
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cherien A. Ghandour
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Martin A. Rooimans
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rob M. F. Wolthuis
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Job de Lange
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Genetics, section Oncogenetics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zebrafish Models of Human Skeletal Disorders: Embryo and Adult Swimming Together. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:1253710. [PMID: 31828085 PMCID: PMC6886339 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1253710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Danio rerio (zebrafish) is an elective model organism for the study of vertebrate development because of its high degree of homology with human genes and organs, including bone. Zebrafish embryos, because of the optical clarity, small size, and fast development, can be easily used in large-scale mutagenesis experiments to isolate mutants with developmental skeletal defects and in high-throughput screenings to find new chemical compounds for the ability to revert the pathological phenotype. On the other hand, the adult zebrafish represents another powerful resource for pathogenic and therapeutic studies about adult human bone diseases. In fish, some characteristics such as bone turnover, reparation, and remodeling of the adult bone tissue cannot be found at the embryonic stage. Several pathological models have been established in adult zebrafish such as bone injury models, osteoporosis, and genetic diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta. Given the growing interest for metabolic diseases and their complications, adult zebrafish models of type 2 diabetes and obesity have been recently generated and analyzed for bone complications using scales as model system. Interestingly, an osteoporosis-like phenotype has been found to be associated with metabolic alterations suggesting that bone complications share the same mechanisms in humans and fish. Embryo and adult represent powerful resources in rapid development to study bone physiology and pathology from different points of view.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ahi EP, Richter F, Lecaudey LA, Sefc KM. Gene expression profiling suggests differences in molecular mechanisms of fin elongation between cichlid species. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9052. [PMID: 31227799 PMCID: PMC6588699 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45599-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Comparative analyses of gene regulation inform about the molecular basis of phenotypic trait evolution. Here, we address a fin shape phenotype that evolved multiple times independently across teleost fish, including several species within the family Cichlidae. In a previous study, we proposed a gene regulatory network (GRN) involved in the formation and regeneration of conspicuous filamentous elongations adorning the unpaired fins of the Neolamprologus brichardi. Here, we tested the members of this network in the blockhead cichlid, Steatocranus casuarius, which displays conspicuously elongated dorsal and moderately elongated anal fins. Our study provided evidence for differences in the anatomy of fin elongation and suggested gene regulatory divergence between the two cichlid species. Only a subset of the 20 genes tested in S. casuarius showed the qPCR expression patterns predicted from the GRN identified in N. brichardi, and several of the gene-by-gene expression correlations differed between the two cichlid species. In comparison to N. brichardi, gene expression patterns in S. casuarius were in better (but not full) agreement with gene regulatory interactions inferred in zebrafish. Within S. casuarius, the dorsoventral asymmetry in ornament expression was accompanied by differences in gene expression patterns, including potential regulatory differentiation, between the anal and dorsal fin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Pashay Ahi
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria. .,Department of Comparative Physiology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18A, SE-75 236, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Florian Richter
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Kristina M Sefc
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fellous A, Earley RL, Silvestre F. Identification and expression of mangrove rivulus (Kryptolebias marmoratus) histone deacetylase (HDAC) and lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) genes. Gene 2019; 691:56-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.12.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
17
|
Abstract
Condensins and cohesins are highly conserved complexes that tether together DNA loci within a single DNA molecule to produce DNA loops. Condensin and cohesin structures, however, are different, and the DNA loops produced by each underlie distinct cell processes. Condensin rods compact chromosomes during mitosis, with condensin I and II complexes producing spatially defined and nested looping in metazoan cells. Structurally adaptive cohesin rings produce loops, which organize the genome during interphase. Cohesin-mediated loops, termed topologically associating domains or TADs, antagonize the formation of epigenetically defined but untethered DNA volumes, termed compartments. While condensin complexes formed through cis-interactions must maintain chromatin compaction throughout mitosis, cohesins remain highly dynamic during interphase to allow for transcription-mediated responses to external cues and the execution of developmental programs. Here, I review differences in condensin and cohesin structures, and highlight recent advances regarding the intramolecular or cis-based tetherings through which condensins compact DNA during mitosis and cohesins organize the genome during interphase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert V Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, 111 Research Drive, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bhattacharya S, Gargiulo D, Iovine MK. Simplet-dependent regulation of β-catenin signaling influences skeletal patterning downstream of Cx43. Development 2018; 145:dev.166975. [PMID: 30377172 DOI: 10.1242/dev.166975] [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: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The correct positioning of joints in the vertebrate skeleton is not well understood. Mutations in connexin43 (cx43) cause the short segment phenotype of the zebrafish short fin (sofb123 ) mutant. We have shown that Cx43 suppresses evx1 expression, a transcription factor required for joint formation. Here, we provide novel insights into how Cx43 influences evx1 transcription. First, we find that Simplet (Smp) knockdown recapitulates the sofb123 phenotypes of reduced regenerate length and reduced segment length, and we find evidence for synergy between cx43 and smp Moreover, knockdown of Smp increases the evx1 expression, similar to cx43 knockdown. Previous studies have shown that Smp is required for the nuclear localization of β-catenin. Indeed, β-catenin activity is required for segment length, and is reduced in both sofb123 mutants and following Smp knockdown in regenerating fins. We further show that blocking canonical Wnt signaling results in a synergistic reduction in segment length in sofb123 /+ heterozygotes. Together, our findings suggest that both Smp and β-catenin function in a common molecular pathway with cx43 to influence both evx1 expression and joint location.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Domenic Gargiulo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - M Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Guo XB, Huang B, Pan YH, Su SG, Li Y. ESCO2 inhibits tumor metastasis via transcriptionally repressing MMP2 in colorectal cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2018; 10:6157-6166. [PMID: 30538563 PMCID: PMC6257866 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s181265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Establishment of cohesion 1 homolog 2 (ESCO2) plays important roles in the regulation of cohesion and genomic stability and has been implicated in human cancers. Yet, its clinical significance and biological function in colorectal cancer (CRC) are unknown. Methods The expression of ESCO2 was examined by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. The role of ESCO2 in the tumor metastasis of CRC and the related mechanisms were investigated using in vitro and in vivo models. Results In this study, we show that low expression of ESCO2 in CRC was closely correlated with lymphatic and distant metastasis. Patients with low ESCO2 expression experienced shorter overall survival and disease-free survival in two independent cohorts containing a total of 587 CRC cases. ESCO2 overexpression suppressed, whereas ESCO2 knockdown promoted cell migration in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo via modulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Mechanistically, ESCO2 inhibited the transcriptional activity of MMP2 promoter to downregulate its expression. Reexpression of MMP2 partially attenuated the ESCO2-mediated malignant phenotypes. Conclusion Collectively, our data suggest that ESCO2 serves as a potential prognostic factor and exerts antimetastatic activity in CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiong-Bo Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Surgery Research, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Surgery Research, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying-Hua Pan
- Department of Rheumatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Guang Su
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hexian Memorial Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China,
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hexian Memorial Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China,
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ahi EP, Sefc KM. Towards a gene regulatory network shaping the fins of the Princess cichlid. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9602. [PMID: 29942008 PMCID: PMC6018552 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27977-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Variation in fin shape and size contributes to the outstanding morphological diversity of teleost fishes, but the regulation of fin growth has not yet been studied extensively outside the zebrafish model. A previous gene expression study addressing the ornamental elongations of unpaired fins in the African cichlid fish Neolamprologus brichardi identified three genes (cx43, mmp9 and sema3d) with strong and consistent expression differences between short and elongated fin regions. Remarkably, the expression patterns of these genes were not consistent with inferences on their regulatory interactions in zebrafish. Here, we identify a gene expression network (GRN) comprising cx43, mmp9, and possibly also sema3d by a stepwise approach of identifying co-expression modules and predicting their upstream regulators. Among the transcription factors (TFs) predicted as potential upstream regulators of 11 co-expressed genes, six TFs (foxc1, foxp1, foxd3, myc, egr2, irf8) showed expression patterns consistent with their cooperative transcriptional regulation of the gene network. Some of these TFs have already been implicated in teleost fish fin regeneration and formation. We particularly discuss the potential function of foxd3 as driver of the network and its role in the unexpected gene expression correlations observed in N. brichardi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Pashay Ahi
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria.
| | - Kristina M Sefc
- Institute of Biology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Vanlerberghe C, Boutry N, Petit F. Genetics of patella hypoplasia/agenesis. Clin Genet 2018; 94:43-53. [PMID: 29322497 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The patella is a sesamoid bone, crucial for knee stability. When absent or hypoplastic, recurrent knee subluxations, patellofemoral dysfunction and early gonarthrosis may occur. Patella hypoplasia/agenesis may be isolated or observed in syndromic conditions, either as the main clinical feature (Nail-patella syndrome, small patella syndrome), as a clue feature which can help diagnosis assessment, or as a background feature that may be disregarded. Even in the latter, the identification of patella anomalies is important for an appropriate patient management. We review the clinical characteristics of these rare diseases, provide guidance to facilitate the diagnosis and discuss how the genes involved could affect patella development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Vanlerberghe
- Univ. Lille, EA7364 RADEME, Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Clinique de Génétique Médicale, Lille, France
| | - N Boutry
- Univ. Lille, EA7364 RADEME, Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Service de Radiopédiatrie, Lille, France
| | - F Petit
- Univ. Lille, EA7364 RADEME, Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Clinique de Génétique Médicale, Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
McLaughlin KA, Levin M. Bioelectric signaling in regeneration: Mechanisms of ionic controls of growth and form. Dev Biol 2018; 433:177-189. [PMID: 29291972 PMCID: PMC5753428 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ability to control pattern formation is critical for the both the embryonic development of complex structures as well as for the regeneration/repair of damaged or missing tissues and organs. In addition to chemical gradients and gene regulatory networks, endogenous ion flows are key regulators of cell behavior. Not only do bioelectric cues provide information needed for the initial development of structures, they also enable the robust restoration of normal pattern after injury. In order to expand our basic understanding of morphogenetic processes responsible for the repair of complex anatomy, we need to identify the roles of endogenous voltage gradients, ion flows, and electric fields. In complement to the current focus on molecular genetics, decoding the information transduced by bioelectric cues enhances our knowledge of the dynamic control of growth and pattern formation. Recent advances in science and technology place us in an exciting time to elucidate the interplay between molecular-genetic inputs and important biophysical cues that direct the creation of tissues and organs. Moving forward, these new insights enable additional approaches to direct cell behavior and may result in profound advances in augmentation of regenerative capacity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A McLaughlin
- Allen Discovery Center, Department of Biology, Tufts University, 200 Boston Ave., Suite 4700, Medford, MA 02155, United States.
| | - Michael Levin
- Allen Discovery Center, Department of Biology, Tufts University, 200 Boston Ave., Suite 4700, Medford, MA 02155, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Banerji R, Skibbens RV, Iovine MK. Cohesin mediates Esco2-dependent transcriptional regulation in a zebrafish regenerating fin model of Roberts Syndrome. Biol Open 2017; 6:1802-1813. [PMID: 29084713 PMCID: PMC5769645 DOI: 10.1242/bio.026013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Robert syndrome (RBS) and Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) are human developmental disorders characterized by craniofacial deformities, limb malformation and mental retardation. These birth defects are collectively termed cohesinopathies as both arise from mutations in cohesion genes. CdLS arises due to autosomal dominant mutations or haploinsufficiencies in cohesin subunits (SMC1A, SMC3 and RAD21) or cohesin auxiliary factors (NIPBL and HDAC8) that result in transcriptional dysregulation of developmental programs. RBS arises due to autosomal recessive mutations in cohesin auxiliary factor ESCO2, the gene that encodes an N-acetyltransferase which targets the SMC3 subunit of the cohesin complex. The mechanism that underlies RBS, however, remains unknown. A popular model states that RBS arises due to mitotic failure and loss of progenitor stem cells through apoptosis. Previous findings in the zebrafish regenerating fin, however, suggest that Esco2-knockdown results in transcription dysregulation, independent of apoptosis, similar to that observed in CdLS patients. Previously, we used the clinically relevant CX43 to demonstrate a transcriptional role for Esco2. CX43 is a gap junction gene conserved among all vertebrates that is required for direct cell-cell communication between adjacent cells such that cx43 mutations result in oculodentodigital dysplasia. Here, we show that morpholino-mediated knockdown of smc3 reduces cx43 expression and perturbs zebrafish bone and tissue regeneration similar to those previously reported for esco2 knockdown. Also similar to Esco2-dependent phenotypes, Smc3-dependent bone and tissue regeneration defects are rescued by transgenic Cx43 overexpression, suggesting that Smc3 and Esco2 cooperatively act to regulate cx43 transcription. In support of this model, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays reveal that Smc3 binds to a discrete region of the cx43 promoter, suggesting that Esco2 exerts transcriptional regulation of cx43 through modification of Smc3 bound to the cx43 promoter. These findings have the potential to unify RBS and CdLS as transcription-based mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajeswari Banerji
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, USA
| | - Robert V Skibbens
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, USA
| | - M Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ahi EP, Richter F, Sefc KM. A gene expression study of ornamental fin shape in Neolamprologus brichardi, an African cichlid species. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17398. [PMID: 29234131 PMCID: PMC5727040 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17778-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The diversity of fin morphology within and across fish taxa offers great, but still largely unexplored, opportunities to investigate the proximate mechanisms underlying fin shape variation. Relying on available genetic knowledge brought forth mainly by the comprehensive study of the zebrafish caudal fin, we explored candidate molecular mechanisms for the maintenance and formation of the conspicuously elongated filaments adorning the unpaired fins of the East African "princess cichlid" Neolamprologus brichardi. Via qPCR assays, we detected expression differences of candidate genes between elongated and short regions of intact and regenerating fins. The identified genes include skeletogenic and growth factors (igf2b, fgf3, bmp2 and bmp4), components of the WNT pathway (lef1, wnt5b and wnt10) and a regulatory network determining fin ray segment size and junction (cx43, esco2 and sema3d), as well as other genes with different roles (mmp9, msxb and pea3). Interestingly, some of these genes showed fin specific expression differences which are often neglected in studies of model fish that focus on the caudal fin. Moreover, while the observed expression patterns were generally consistent with zebrafish results, we also detected deviating expression correlations and gene functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Pashay Ahi
- Institute of Zoology, University of Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, A-8010, Graz, Austria.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Avagliano L, Grazioli P, Mariani M, Bulfamante GP, Selicorni A, Massa V. Integrating molecular and structural findings: Wnt as a possible actor in shaping cognitive impairment in Cornelia de Lange syndrome. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2017; 12:174. [PMID: 29162129 PMCID: PMC5696803 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-017-0723-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) is a choesinopathy: a severe genetic disorder caused by mutations in the cohesin complex genes. The phenotype is characterized by typical facial dysmorphism, growth impairment and multiorgan abnormalities including brain alterations. Wnt pathway is known to play a fundamental role in central nervous system development and it has been shown that Wnt pathway is disrupted in CdLS animal models and patients cells. In this review we investigate the possible link between Wnt pathway disruption and brain abnormalities in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome as such molecular impairment could lead to an abnormal embryonic development resulting in brain abnormalities (i.e. microcephaly, cerebellar hypoplasia, abnormal cortical development) in patients with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Avagliano
- Department of Health Sciences, San Paolo Hospital Medical School University of Milan, Via A. di Rudinì, 8, 20142, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Grazioli
- Department of Health Sciences, San Paolo Hospital Medical School University of Milan, Via A. di Rudinì, 8, 20142, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gaetano P Bulfamante
- Department of Health Sciences, San Paolo Hospital Medical School University of Milan, Via A. di Rudinì, 8, 20142, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, San Paolo Hospital Medical School University of Milan, Via A. di Rudinì, 8, 20142, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Banerji R, Skibbens RV, Iovine MK. How many roads lead to cohesinopathies? Dev Dyn 2017; 246:881-888. [PMID: 28422453 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic mapping studies reveal that mutations in cohesion pathways are responsible for multispectrum developmental abnormalities termed cohesinopathies. These include Roberts syndrome (RBS), Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), and Warsaw Breakage Syndrome (WABS). The cohesinopathies are characterized by overlapping phenotypes ranging from craniofacial deformities, limb defects, and mental retardation. Though these syndromes share a similar suite of phenotypes and arise due to mutations in a common cohesion pathway, the underlying mechanisms are currently believed to be distinct. Defects in mitotic failure and apoptosis i.e. trans DNA tethering events are believed to be the underlying cause of RBS, whereas the underlying cause of CdLS is largely modeled as occurring through defects in transcriptional processes i.e. cis DNA tethering events. Here, we review recent findings described primarily in zebrafish, paired with additional studies in other model systems, including human patient cells, which challenge the notion that cohesinopathies represent separate syndromes. We highlight numerous studies that illustrate the utility of zebrafish to provide novel insights into the phenotypes, genes affected and the possible mechanisms underlying cohesinopathies. We propose that transcriptional deregulation is the predominant mechanism through which cohesinopathies arise. Developmental Dynamics 246:881-888, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajeswari Banerji
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert V Skibbens
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| | - M Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Farwell SLN, Reylander KG, Iovine MK, Lowe-Krentz LJ. Novel Heparin Receptor Transmembrane Protein 184a Regulates Angiogenesis in the Adult Zebrafish Caudal Fin. Front Physiol 2017; 8:671. [PMID: 28936181 PMCID: PMC5594097 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmembrane protein 184A (TMEM184A) was recently identified as the heparin receptor in vascular cells. Heparin binds specifically to TMEM184A and induces anti-proliferative signaling in vitro. Though it is highly conserved, the physiological function of TMEM184A remains unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression and effects on vascular regeneration of TMEM184A using the adult zebrafish regenerating caudal fin as an in vivo model. Here, we show that Tmem184a is expressed in vascular endothelial cells (ECs) of mature and regenerating zebrafish fins. Transient morpholino (MO)-mediated knockdown of Tmem184a using two validated MOs results in tangled regenerating vessels that do not grow outward and limit normal overall fin regeneration. A significant increase in EC proliferation is observed. Consistent with in vitro work with tissue culture vascular cells, heparin has the opposite effect and decreases EC proliferation which also hinders overall fin regeneration. Collectively, our study suggests that Tmem184a is a novel regulator of angiogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lynn N Farwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh UniversityBethlehem, PA, United States
| | - Kimberly G Reylander
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh UniversityBethlehem, PA, United States
| | - M Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh UniversityBethlehem, PA, United States
| | - Linda J Lowe-Krentz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh UniversityBethlehem, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Dardis G, Tryon R, Ton Q, Johnson SL, Iovine MK. Cx43 suppresses evx1 expression to regulate joint initiation in the regenerating fin. Dev Dyn 2017; 246:691-699. [PMID: 28577298 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND How joints are correctly positioned in the vertebrate skeleton remains poorly understood. From our studies on the regenerating fin, we have evidence that the gap junction protein Cx43 suppresses joint formation by suppressing the expression of the evx1 transcription factor. Joint morphogenesis proceeds through at least two discrete stages. First, cells that will produce the joint condense in a single row on the bone matrix ("initiation"). Second, these cells separate coincident with articulation of the bone matrix. We propose that Cx43 activity is transiently reduced prior to joint initiation. RESULTS We first define the timing of joint initiation with respect to regeneration. We next correlate reduced cx43 expression and increased evx1 expression with initiation. Through manipulation of cx43 expression, we demonstrate that Cx43 negatively influences evx1 expression and joint formation. We further demonstrate that Cx43 activity in the dermal fibroblasts is required to rescue joint formation in the cx43 mutant, short finb123 . CONCLUSIONS We conclude that Cx43 activity in the dermal fibroblasts influences the expression of evx1, and therefore the differentiation of the precursor cells that give rise to the joint-forming osteoblasts. Developmental Dynamics 246:691-699, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Dardis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert Tryon
- Genetics Department, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Quynh Ton
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| | - Stephen L Johnson
- Genetics Department, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - M Kathryn Iovine
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Mathews J, Levin M. Gap junctional signaling in pattern regulation: Physiological network connectivity instructs growth and form. Dev Neurobiol 2017; 77:643-673. [PMID: 27265625 PMCID: PMC10478170 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions (GJs) are aqueous channels that allow cells to communicate via physiological signals directly. The role of gap junctional connectivity in determining single-cell functions has long been recognized. However, GJs have another important role: the regulation of large-scale anatomical pattern. GJs are not only versatile computational elements that allow cells to control which small molecule signals they receive and emit, but also establish connectivity patterns within large groups of cells. By dynamically regulating the topology of bioelectric networks in vivo, GJs underlie the ability of many tissues to implement complex morphogenesis. Here, a review of recent data on patterning roles of GJs in growth of the zebrafish fin, the establishment of left-right patterning, the developmental dysregulation known as cancer, and the control of large-scale head-tail polarity, and head shape in planarian regeneration has been reported. A perspective in which GJs are not only molecular features functioning in single cells, but also enable global neural-like dynamics in non-neural somatic tissues has been proposed. This view suggests a rich program of future work which capitalizes on the rapid advances in the biophysics of GJs to exploit GJ-mediated global dynamics for applications in birth defects, regenerative medicine, and morphogenetic bioengineering. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 643-673, 2017.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juanita Mathews
- Department of Biology, Tufts Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA
| | - Michael Levin
- Department of Biology, Tufts Center for Regenerative and Developmental Biology, Tufts University, Medford, MA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Skibbens RV. Of Rings and Rods: Regulating Cohesin Entrapment of DNA to Generate Intra- and Intermolecular Tethers. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1006337. [PMID: 27788133 PMCID: PMC5082857 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical relevance of cohesin in DNA repair, tumorigenesis, and severe birth defects continues to fuel efforts in understanding cohesin structure, regulation, and enzymology. Early models depicting huge cohesin rings that entrap two DNA segments within a single lumen are fading into obscurity based on contradictory findings, but elucidating cohesin structure amid a myriad of functions remains challenging. Due in large part to integrated uses of a wide range of methodologies, recent advances are beginning to cast light into the depths that previously cloaked cohesin structure. Additional efforts similarly provide new insights into cohesin enzymology: specifically, the discoveries of ATP-dependent transitions that promote cohesin binding and release from DNA. In combination, these efforts posit a new model that cohesin exists primarily as a relatively flattened structure that entraps only a single DNA molecule and that subsequent ATP hydrolysis, acetylation, and oligomeric assembly tether together individual DNA segments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert V. Skibbens
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|