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Haque MA, Lee YM, Ha JJ, Jin S, Park B, Kim NY, Won JI, Kim JJ. Genome-wide association study identifies genomic regions associated with key reproductive traits in Korean Hanwoo cows. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:496. [PMID: 38778305 PMCID: PMC11112828 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10401-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conducting genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for reproductive traits in Hanwoo cattle, including age at first calving (AFC), calving interval (CI), gestation length (GL), and number of artificial inseminations per conception (NAIPC), is of paramount significance. These analyses provided a thorough exploration of the genetic basis of these traits, facilitating the identification of key markers for targeted trait improvement. Breeders can optimize their selection strategies, leading to more efficient and sustainable breeding programs, by incorporating genetic insights. This impact extends beyond individual traits and contributes to the overall productivity and profitability of the Hanwoo beef cattle industry. Ultimately, GWAS is essential in ensuring the long-term genetic resilience and adaptability of Hanwoo cattle populations. The primary goal of this study was to identify significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with the studied reproductive traits and subsequently map the underlying genes that hold promise for trait improvement. RESULTS A genome-wide association study of reproductive traits identified 68 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distributed across 29 Bos taurus autosomes (BTA). Among them, BTA14 exhibited the highest number of identified SNPs (25), whereas BTA6, BTA7, BTA8, BTA10, BTA13, BTA17, and BTA20 exhibited 8, 5, 5, 3, 8, 2, and 12 significant SNPs, respectively. Annotation of candidate genes within a 500 kb region surrounding the significant SNPs led to the identification of ten candidate genes relevant to age at first calving. These genes were: FANCG, UNC13B, TESK1, TLN1, and CREB3 on BTA8; FAM110B, UBXN2B, SDCBP, and TOX on BTA14; and MAP3K1 on BTA20. Additionally, APBA3, TCF12, and ZFR2, located on BTA7 and BTA10, were associated with the calving interval; PAX1, SGCD, and HAND1, located on BTA7 and BTA13, were linked to gestation length; and RBM47, UBE2K, and GPX8, located on BTA6 and BTA20, were linked to the number of artificial inseminations per conception in Hanwoo cows. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study enhance our knowledge of the genetic factors that influence reproductive traits in Hanwoo cattle populations and provide a foundation for future breeding strategies focused on improving desirable traits in beef cattle. This research offers new evidence and insights into the genetic variants and genome regions associated with reproductive traits and contributes valuable information to guide future efforts in cattle breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Azizul Haque
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, 38541, Korea
| | - Yun-Mi Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, 38541, Korea
| | - Jae-Jung Ha
- Gyeongbuk Livestock Research Institute, Yeongju, 36052, Korea
| | - Shil Jin
- Hanwoo Research Institute, National Institute of Animal Science, Pyeongchang, 25340, Korea
| | - Byoungho Park
- Hanwoo Research Institute, National Institute of Animal Science, Pyeongchang, 25340, Korea
| | - Nam-Young Kim
- Hanwoo Research Institute, National Institute of Animal Science, Pyeongchang, 25340, Korea
| | - Jeong-Il Won
- Hanwoo Research Institute, National Institute of Animal Science, Pyeongchang, 25340, Korea.
| | - Jong-Joo Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk, 38541, Korea.
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Carretero-Rodriguez L, Guðjónsdóttir R, Poparic I, Reilly ML, Chol M, Bianco IH, Chiapello M, Feret R, Deery MJ, Guthrie S. The Rac-GAP alpha2-Chimaerin Signals via CRMP2 and Stathmins in the Development of the Ocular Motor System. J Neurosci 2021; 41:6652-6672. [PMID: 34168008 PMCID: PMC8336708 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0983-19.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A precise sequence of axon guidance events is required for the development of the ocular motor system. Three cranial nerves grow toward, and connect with, six extraocular muscles in a stereotyped pattern, to control eye movements. The signaling protein alpha2-chimaerin (α2-CHN) plays a pivotal role in the formation of the ocular motor system; mutations in CHN1, encoding α2-CHN, cause the human eye movement disorder Duane Retraction Syndrome (DRS). Our research has demonstrated that the manipulation of α2-chn signaling in the zebrafish embryo leads to ocular motor axon wiring defects, although the signaling cascades regulated by α2-chn remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that several cytoskeletal regulatory proteins-collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2; encoded by the gene dpysl2), stathmin1, and stathmin 2-bind to α2-CHN. dpysl2, stathmin1, and especially stathmin2 are expressed by ocular motor neurons. We find that the manipulation of dpysl2 and of stathmins in zebrafish larvae leads to defects in both the axon wiring of the ocular motor system and the optokinetic reflex, impairing horizontal eye movements. Knockdowns of these molecules in zebrafish larvae of either sex caused axon guidance phenotypes that included defasciculation and ectopic branching; in some cases, these phenotypes were reminiscent of DRS. chn1 knock-down phenotypes were rescued by the overexpression of CRMP2 and STMN1, suggesting that these proteins act in the same signaling pathway. These findings suggest that CRMP2 and stathmins signal downstream of α2-CHN to orchestrate ocular motor axon guidance and to control eye movements.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The precise control of eye movements is crucial for the life of vertebrate animals, including humans. In humans, this control depends on the arrangement of nerve wiring of the ocular motor system, composed of three nerves and six muscles, a system that is conserved across vertebrate phyla. Mutations in the protein alpha2-chimaerin have previously been shown to cause eye movement disorders (squint) and axon wiring defects in humans. Our recent work has unraveled how alpha2-chimaerin coordinates axon guidance of the ocular motor system in animal models. In this article, we demonstrate key roles for the proteins CRMP2 and stathmin 1/2 in the signaling pathway orchestrated by alpha2-chimaerin, potentially giving insight into the etiology of eye movement disorders in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ivana Poparic
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mary Chol
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Isaac H Bianco
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Chiapello
- Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, Cambridge Systems Biology Centre, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QR, United Kingdom
| | - Renata Feret
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council, 10135 Torino, Italy
| | - Michael J Deery
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council, 10135 Torino, Italy
| | - Sarah Guthrie
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN7 9QG, United Kingdom
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3
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Zhao F, Liu H, Wang N, Yu L, Wang A, Yi Y, Jin Y. Exploring the role of Luman/CREB3 in regulating decidualization of mice endometrial stromal cells by comparative transcriptomics. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:103. [PMID: 32000663 PMCID: PMC6993373 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-6515-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Luman is a member of CREB3 (cAMP responsive element-binding) subfamily of the basic leucine-zipper (bZIP) transcription factors. It may play an important regulatory role during the decidualization process since Luman was highly expressed in the decidual cells. However, the exact molecular mechanisms of how Luman regulating decidualization is unknown. Results Using an in vitro model, we prove that Luman knockdown significantly affects the decidualization process of mice endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) as the expression of two decidual markers PRL8a2 and PRL3c1 were repressed. We employed massively parallel RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to understand the changes in the transcriptional landscape associated with knockdown of Luman in ESCs during in vitro decidualization. We found significant dysregulation of genes related to protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Several genes involved in decidualization including bone morphogenetic proteins (e.g. BMP1, BMP4, BMP8A, BMP2, and BMP8B), growth factor-related genes (e.g. VEGFB, FGF10, and FGFR2), and transcription factors (IF4E, IF4A2, WNT4, WNT9A, ETS1, NOTCH1, IRX1, IDB1, IDB2, and IDB3), show altered expression. We also found that the knockdown of Luman is associated with increased expression of cell cycle-related genes including cycA1, cycB1, cycB2, CDK1, CDK2, and PLPK1, which resulted in an increased proportion of ESCs in the G1 phase. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were highly enriched on ECM-receptor interaction signaling, endoplasmic reticulum protein processing, focal adhesion, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. Conclusions Luman knockdown results in widespread gene dysregulation during decidualization of ESCs. Genes involved in protein processing in ER, bone morphogenetic protein, growth factor, and cell cycle progression were identified as particularly important for explaining the decidual deficiency observed in this in vitro model. Therefore, this study provides clues as to the underlying mechanisms that may expand our understanding of gene regulation during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Nan Wang
- Institute of Biological Resources and Diversity, College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lijun Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanglei Yi
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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4
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Wang X, Fei F, Qu J, Li C, Li Y, Zhang S. The role of septin 7 in physiology and pathological disease: A systematic review of current status. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:3298-3307. [PMID: 29602250 PMCID: PMC6010854 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Septins are a conserved family of cytoskeletal GTPases present in different organisms, including yeast, drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans and humans. In humans, septins are involved in various cellular processes, including exocytosis, apoptosis, leukemogenesis, carcinogenesis and neurodegeneration. Septin 7 is unique out of 13 human septins. Mammalian septin 6, septin 7, septin 2 and septin 9 coisolate together in complexes to form the core unit for the generation of the septin filaments. Physiological septin filaments are hetero‐oligomeric complexes consisting of core septin hexamers and octamers. Furthermore, septin 7 plays a crucial role in cytokinesis and mitosis. Septin 7 is localized to the filopodia and branches of developing hippocampal neurons, and is the most abundant septin in the adult rat forebrain as well as a structural component of the human and mouse sperm annuli. Septin 7 is crucial to the spine morphogenesis and dendrite growth in neurons, and is also a structural constituent of the annulus in human and mouse sperm. It can suppress growth of some tumours such as glioma and papillary thyroid carcinoma. However, the molecular mechanisms of involvement of septin 7 in human disease, especially in the development of cancer, remain unclear. This review focuses on the structure, function and mechanism of septin 7 in vivo, and summarizes the role of septin 7 in cell proliferation, cytokinesis, nervous and reproductive systems, as well as the underlying molecular events linking septin 7 to various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus, tumour and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlu Wang
- Graduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Fei Fei
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China.,Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Qu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China.,Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunyuan Li
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China.,Nankai University School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuwei Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China
| | - Shiwu Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin, China
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5
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Gou J, Jia J, Feng J, Zhao X, Yi T, Cui T, Li Z. Stathmin 1 plays a role in endometrial decidualisation by regulating hypoxia inducible factor-1α and vascular endothelial growth factor during embryo implantation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:1530-1537. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore the potential mechanism underlying stathmin 1 (Stmn1) regulation of embryo implantation, as a continuation of previous proteomic research. Adult healthy female mice were mated naturally with fertile males. Murine uterine tissue was collected during the peri-implantation period. Local expression of Stmn1 during embryo implantation was detected by immunohistochemistry (IHC), which showed that Stmn1 was extensively expressed in endometrial glandular epithelium, vascular endothelium, luminal epithelium and the underlying stromal cells at the implantation site on Day 5. The role of Stmn1 during embryo implantation was evaluated by transient knockdown of Stmn1 in vivo using short interference (si) RNA, and some associated factors including Akt, phosphorylated (p-) Akt, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α, prolactin (PRL), insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) 1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were examined by western blotting analysis and ELISA. The number of embryos implanted after Stmn1-siRNA infusion into the lumen of one uterine horn was lower than that with normal pregnancies (2.2 ± 1.5 vs 8.6 ± 0.5 respectively; P < 0.05). The expression of VEGF, HIF-1α, p-Akt and the decidualisation biomarkers PRL and IGFBP 1 was upregulated at the implantation site on Day 5, but downregulated after Stmn1-siRNA infusion. These findings suggest that during embryo implantation, knockdown of Stmn1 suppresses decidualisation by inhibiting the expression of p-Akt, HIF-1α and VEGF, thus leading to impaired embryo implantation. These findings provide clues for understanding the complicated process of embryo implantation and the potential role of Stmn1 during embryo implantation.
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6
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Yang H, Lau WB, Lau B, Xuan Y, Zhou S, Zhao L, Luo Z, Lin Q, Ren N, Zhao X, Wei Y. A mass spectrometric insight into the origins of benign gynecological disorders. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2015; 36:450-470. [PMID: 26633258 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Applications of mass spectrometry (MS) are rapidly expanding and encompass molecular and cellular biology. MS aids in the analysis of in vivo global molecular alterations, identifying potential biomarkers which may improve diagnosis and treatment of various pathologies. MS has added new dimensionality to medical research. Pioneering gynecologists now study molecular mechanisms underlying female reproductive pathology with MS-based tools. Although benign gynecologic disorders including endometriosis, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) carry low mortality rates, they cause significant physical, mental, and social detriments. Additionally, some benign disorders are unfortunately associated with malignancies. MS-based technology can detect malignant changes in formerly benign proteomes and metabolomes with distinct advantages of speed, sensitivity, and specificity. We present the use of MS in proteomics and metabolomics, and summarize the current understanding of the molecular pathways concerning female reproductive anatomy. Highlight discoveries of novel protein and metabolite biomarkers via MS-based technology, we underscore the clinical application of these techniques in the diagnosis and management of benign gynecological disorders. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 36:450-470, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiliang Yang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China.,Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Wayne Bond Lau
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, 19107
| | - Bonnie Lau
- Department of Surgery, Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Santa Clara Medical Center, Affiliate of Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305
| | - Yu Xuan
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Shengtao Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Linjie Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Zhongyue Luo
- College of Biological Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Qiao Lin
- College of Biological Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Ning Ren
- College of Biological Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P. R. China
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7
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Menon MB, Sawada A, Chaturvedi A, Mishra P, Schuster-Gossler K, Galla M, Schambach A, Gossler A, Förster R, Heuser M, Kotlyarov A, Kinoshita M, Gaestel M. Genetic deletion of SEPT7 reveals a cell type-specific role of septins in microtubule destabilization for the completion of cytokinesis. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004558. [PMID: 25122120 PMCID: PMC4133155 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokinesis terminates mitosis, resulting in separation of the two sister cells. Septins, a conserved family of GTP-binding cytoskeletal proteins, are an absolute requirement for cytokinesis in budding yeast. We demonstrate that septin-dependence of mammalian cytokinesis differs greatly between cell types: genetic loss of the pivotal septin subunit SEPT7 in vivo reveals that septins are indispensable for cytokinesis in fibroblasts, but expendable in cells of the hematopoietic system. SEPT7-deficient mouse embryos fail to gastrulate, and septin-deficient fibroblasts exhibit pleiotropic defects in the major cytokinetic machinery, including hyperacetylation/stabilization of microtubules and stalled midbody abscission, leading to constitutive multinucleation. We identified the microtubule depolymerizing protein stathmin as a key molecule aiding in septin-independent cytokinesis, demonstrated that stathmin supplementation is sufficient to override cytokinesis failure in SEPT7-null fibroblasts, and that knockdown of stathmin makes proliferation of a hematopoietic cell line sensitive to the septin inhibitor forchlorfenuron. Identification of septin-independent cytokinesis in the hematopoietic system could serve as a key to identify solid tumor-specific molecular targets for inhibition of cell proliferation. Cytokinesis is the finalizing step of the complex scenario of mitosis, leading to separation of two sister cells. The cellular mechanism of cytokinesis in eukaryotes differs at least between yeasts, plants and animals. So far, it is also not clear whether all mammalian cells follow the same mechanistic rules of cytokinesis. Here, we demonstrate that, depending on the mammalian cell type, two different pathways could result in completion of cytokinesis, a septin-dependent pathway and a distinct mechanism, which does not require septins prevalent in the hematopoietic system. Using multiple conditional knockouts, we demonstrate this cell type specificity in vitro and in vivo, and present evidence for the involvement of cell-type specific alteration of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Our data, together with the previously available septin knockdown data in cancer cell lines, suggest septins as plausible antitumor targets with high therapeutic index due to lack of off-target effects on hematopoiesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj B. Menon
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- * E-mail: (MBM); (MK); (MG)
| | - Akihiro Sawada
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Biological Science, Nagoya University Graduate School of Science, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Anuhar Chaturvedi
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Pooja Mishra
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Melanie Galla
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Axel Schambach
- Institute of Experimental Hematology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Achim Gossler
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Reinhold Förster
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael Heuser
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alexey Kotlyarov
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Makoto Kinoshita
- Department of Molecular Biology, Division of Biological Science, Nagoya University Graduate School of Science, Furo, Chikusa, Nagoya, Japan
- * E-mail: (MBM); (MK); (MG)
| | - Matthias Gaestel
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- * E-mail: (MBM); (MK); (MG)
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8
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Duncan JE, Lytle NK, Zuniga A, Goldstein LSB. The Microtubule Regulatory Protein Stathmin Is Required to Maintain the Integrity of Axonal Microtubules in Drosophila. PLoS One 2013; 8:e68324. [PMID: 23840848 PMCID: PMC3694009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Axonal transport, a form of long-distance, bi-directional intracellular transport that occurs between the cell body and synaptic terminal, is critical in maintaining the function and viability of neurons. We have identified a requirement for the stathmin (stai) gene in the maintenance of axonal microtubules and regulation of axonal transport in Drosophila. The stai gene encodes a cytosolic phosphoprotein that regulates microtubule dynamics by partitioning tubulin dimers between pools of soluble tubulin and polymerized microtubules, and by directly binding to microtubules and promoting depolymerization. Analysis of stai function in Drosophila, which has a single stai gene, circumvents potential complications with studies performed in vertebrate systems in which mutant phenotypes may be compensated by genetic redundancy of other members of the stai gene family. This has allowed us to identify an essential function for stai in the maintenance of the integrity of axonal microtubules. In addition to the severe disruption in the abundance and architecture of microtubules in the axons of stai mutant Drosophila, we also observe additional neurological phenotypes associated with loss of stai function including a posterior paralysis and tail-flip phenotype in third instar larvae, aberrant accumulation of transported membranous organelles in stai deficient axons, a progressive bang-sensitive response to mechanical stimulation reminiscent of the class of Drosophila mutants used to model human epileptic seizures, and a reduced adult lifespan. Reductions in the levels of Kinesin-1, the primary anterograde motor in axonal transport, enhance these phenotypes. Collectively, our results indicate that stai has an important role in neuronal function, likely through the maintenance of microtubule integrity in the axons of nerves of the peripheral nervous system necessary to support and sustain long-distance axonal transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason E. Duncan
- Department of Biology, Willamette University, Salem, Oregon, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Nikki K. Lytle
- Department of Biology, Willamette University, Salem, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Alfredo Zuniga
- Department of Biology, Willamette University, Salem, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Lawrence S. B. Goldstein
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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9
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Expression and localization of Luman RNA and protein during mouse implantation and decidualization. Theriogenology 2013; 80:138-44.e1-2. [PMID: 23683694 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Luman (also known as LZIP and CREB3) is a basic leucine zipper transcription factor of the cAMP response element-binding protein/activating transcription factor gene family. Although Luman had specific roles near termination of Drosophila embryogenesis, the physiological functions of Luman in female mammals have apparently not been reported. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the spatiotemporal expression and regulation of Luman in the mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. Luman protein was clearly present in the luminal and glandular epithelium on days 1 to 4 of pregnancy (day 1, presence of a vaginal plug) and was observed in decidual cells on day 6 of pregnancy. Expression had progressively increased to day 7 when the second decidual zone was formed. On day 8, apoptosis of the decidualized cells was present, and Luman protein expression was decreased (in close association with decidualization). Luman protein was also present in decidual cells of the artificially decidualized uterus. The expression of Luman was regulated by an activated embryo (according to its expression patterns during pseudopregnancy and delayed implantation). Furthermore, expression of Luman was induced by estrogen in ovariectomized mice. We have concluded that Luman might have important roles in embryo implantation and decidualization.
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10
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Sroga JM, Ma X, Das SK. Developmental regulation of decidual cell polyploidy at the site of implantation. Front Biosci (Schol Ed) 2012; 4:1475-86. [PMID: 22652887 DOI: 10.2741/s347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Polyploidy has been reported in several animal cells, as well as within humans; however the mechanism of developmental regulation of this process remains poorly understood. Polyploidy occurs in normal biologic processes as well as in pathologic states. Decidual polyploid cells are terminally differentiated cells with a critical role in continued uterine development during embryo implantation and growth. Here we review the mechanisms involved in polyploidy cell formation in normal developmental processes, with focus on known regulatory aspects in decidual cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Sroga
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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11
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Scott CA, Eckstrum KS, Bany BM. Localization of C-Fos-Induced Growth Factor ( Figf) mRNA Expression in the Mouse Uterus during Implantation. REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM & SEXUAL DISORDERS : CURRENT RESEARCH 2012; Suppl 1:003. [PMID: 26918199 PMCID: PMC4764100 DOI: 10.4172/2161-038x.s1-003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to characterize the localization of Figf mRNA in the mouse uterus during embryo implantation. Strong Figf mRNA hybridization signals were seen in the primary decidual zone just after the onset of implantation from Days 4.5–6.5. On Day 7.5, this expression continued around the concept us, but in addition we observed high expression of Figf mRNA in the endothelial cells that line the forming vascular sinusoids in the lateral me some trial decidua. Interestingly, on Days 8.5 this high expression continued in the endothelial cells of sinusoids in the lateral me some trial decidual tissue but not in the decidual cells surrounding the concept us. As implantation and placental development finished, Figf mRNA expression remained in the endothelial cells of the sinusoids and spiral arterioles of the decidua basalis. Interestingly, Flt4 mRNA was localized to the endothelial cells lining the sinusoids that form during implantation. Since the endothelial cells of the me some trial sinusoids exhibit a high level of proliferation, we speculate that FIGF-FLT4 signaling may play a role in their formation and function during implantation. This work will provide a basis for further research on the potential role of FIGF-FLT4 signaling in endometrial angiogenesis during implantation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A Scott
- Departments of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Kirsten S Eckstrum
- Departments of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
| | - Brent M Bany
- Departments of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA; Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
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12
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Ma X, Gao F, Rusie A, Hemingway J, Ostmann AB, Sroga JM, Jegga AG, Das SK. Decidual cell polyploidization necessitates mitochondrial activity. PLoS One 2011; 6:e26774. [PMID: 22046353 PMCID: PMC3201964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0026774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 10/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular polyploidy has been widely reported in nature, yet its developmental mechanism and function remain poorly understood. In the present study, to better define the aspects of decidual cell polyploidy, we isolated pure polyploid and non-polyploid decidual cell populations from the in vivo decidual bed. Three independent RNA pools prepared for each population were then subjected to the Affymetrix gene chip analysis for the whole mouse genome transcripts. Our data revealed up-regulation of 1015 genes and down-regulation of 1207 genes in the polyploid populations, as compared to the non-polyploid group. Comparative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization results indeed confirmed differential expressional regulation of several genes between the two populations. Based on functional enrichment analyses, up-regulated polyploidy genes appeared to implicate several functions, which primarily include cell/nuclear division, ATP binding, metabolic process, and mitochondrial activity, whereas that of down-regulated genes primarily included apoptosis and immune processes. Further analyses of genes that are related to mitochondria and bi-nucleation showed differential and regional expression within the decidual bed, consistent with the pattern of polyploidy. Consistently, studies revealed a marked induction of mitochondrial mass and ATP production in polyploid cells. The inhibition of mitochondrial activity by various pharmacological inhibitors, as well as by gene-specific targeting using siRNA-mediated technology showed a dramatic attenuation of polyploidy and bi-nucleation development during in vitro stromal cell decidualization, suggesting mitochondria play a major role in positive regulation of decidual cell polyploidization. Collectively, analyses of unique polyploidy markers and molecular signaling networks may be useful to further characterize functional aspects of decidual cell polyploidy at the site of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghong Ma
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
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13
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Liu H, Zhang R, Ko SY, Oyajobi BO, Papasian CJ, Deng HW, Zhang S, Zhao M. Microtubule assembly affects bone mass by regulating both osteoblast and osteoclast functions: stathmin deficiency produces an osteopenic phenotype in mice. J Bone Miner Res 2011; 26:2052-67. [PMID: 21557310 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Cytoskeleton microtubules regulate various cell signaling pathways that are involved in bone cell function. We recently reported that inhibition of microtubule assembly by microtubule-targeting drugs stimulates osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. To further elucidate the role of microtubules in bone homeostasis, we characterized the skeletal phenotype of mice null for stathmin, an endogenous protein that inhibits microtubule assembly. In vivo micro-computed tomography (µCT) and histology revealed that stathmin deficiency results in a significant reduction of bone mass in adult mice concurrent with decreased osteoblast and increased osteoclast numbers in bone tissues. Phenotypic analyses of primary calvarial cells and bone marrow cells showed that stathmin deficiency inhibited osteoblast differentiation and induced osteoclast formation. In vitro overexpression studies showed that increased stathmin levels enhanced osteogenic differentiation of preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells and mouse bone marrow-derived cells and attenuated osteoclast formation from osteoclast precursor Raw264.7 cells and bone marrow cells. Results of immunofluorescent studies indicated that overexpression of stathmin disrupted radial microtubule filaments, whereas deficiency of stathmin stabilized the microtubule network structure in these bone cells. In addition, microtubule-targeting drugs that inhibit microtubule assembly and induce osteoblast differentiation lost these effects in the absence of stathmin. Collectively, these results suggest that stathmin, which alters microtubule dynamics, plays an essential role in maintenance of postnatal bone mass by regulating both osteoblast and osteoclast functions in bone. \
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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14
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Chae JI, Kim J, Lee SG, Jeon YJ, Kim DW, Soh Y, Seo KS, Lee HK, Choi NJ, Ryu J, Kang S, Cho SK, Lee DS, Chung HM, Koo ADB. Proteomic analysis of pregnancy-related proteins from pig uterus endometrium during pregnancy. Proteome Sci 2011; 9:41. [PMID: 21791079 PMCID: PMC3162492 DOI: 10.1186/1477-5956-9-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Many important molecular events associated with implantation and development occur within the female reproductive tract, especially within the uterus endometrium, during pregnancy periods. The endometrium includes the mucosal lining of the uterus, which provides a suitable site for implantation and development of a fertilized egg and fetus. To date, the molecular cascades in the uterus endometrium during pregnancy periods in pigs have not been elucidated fully. In this study, we compared the functional regulated proteins in the endometrium during pregnancy periods with those in non-pregnant conditions and investigated changes in expression patterns during pregnancy (days 40, 70, and 93) using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and western blotting. The functional regulated proteins were identified and discovered from differentially expressed proteins in the uterus endometrium during pregnancy. We discovered 820 protein spots in a proteomic analysis of uterus endometrium tissues with 2-DE gels. We identified 63 of the 98 proteins regulated differentially among non-pregnant and pregnant tissues (matched and unmatched spots). Interestingly, 10 of these 63 proteins are development-, cytoskeleton- and chaperon-related proteins such as transferrin, protein DJ-1, transgelin, galectin-1, septin 2, stathmin 1, cofilin 1, fascin 1, heat shock protein (HSP) 90β and HSP 27. The specific expression patterns of these proteins in the endometrium during pregnancy were confirmed by western blotting. Our results suggest that the expressions of these genes involved in endometrium function and endometrium development from early to late gestation are associated with the regulation of endometrium development for maintaining pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Il Chae
- Department of Oral Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Dental Bioscience, BK21 project, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju (651-756), Korea
| | - Jumi Kim
- Graduate School of Life Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, College of Medicine, CHA University, 605-21 Yeoksam 1 dong, Gangnam gu, Seoul 135-907, Korea
| | - Seong G Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu 705-717, Korea
| | - Young-Joo Jeon
- Department of Oral Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Dental Bioscience, BK21 project, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju (651-756), Korea
| | - Dong-Wook Kim
- Department of Oral Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Dental Bioscience, BK21 project, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju (651-756), Korea
| | - Yunjo Soh
- Department of Oral Pharmacology, School of Dentistry and Institute of Dental Bioscience, BK21 project, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju (651-756), Korea
| | - Kang S Seo
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 540-742, Korea
| | - Hak K Lee
- Genomic Informatics Center, Hankyong National University, 67 Sukjong-dong, Ansung-city, Kyongi-do, 456-749, Korea
| | - Nag-Jin Choi
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agricultural & Life Science, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Joohyun Ryu
- Medical Proteomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunghyun Kang
- Medical Proteomics Research Center, KRIBB, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Keun Cho
- Depart. of Animal Science, College of National Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang-si, Gyeongnam 627-706, Korea
| | - Dong-Seok Lee
- College of Natural Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701, Korea
| | - Hyung M Chung
- CHA Bio & Diostech Co., Ltd. 606-16 Yeoksam 1 dong, Gangnam gu, Seoul 135-907, Korea.,Graduate School of Life Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, College of Medicine, CHA University, 605-21 Yeoksam 1 dong, Gangnam gu, Seoul 135-907, Korea
| | - And Deog-Bon Koo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Engineering Daegu University, 15 Jillyang Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 712-714, Korea
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15
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Su RW, Lei W, Liu JL, Zhang ZR, Jia B, Feng XH, Ren G, Hu SJ, Yang ZM. The integrative analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15513. [PMID: 21124741 PMCID: PMC2993968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Accepted: 10/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Delayed implantation is a developmental arrest at the blastocyst stage and a good model for embryo implantation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be involved in mouse embryo implantation through regulating uterine gene expression. This study was to have an integrative analysis on global miRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation through Illumina sequencing. Methodology/Principal Findings By deep sequencing and analysis, we found that there are 20 miRNAs up-regulated and 42 miRNAs down-regulated at least 1.2 folds, and 268 genes up-regulated and 295 genes down-regulated at least 2 folds under activation compared to delayed implantation, respectively. Many different forms of editing in mature miRNAs are detected. The percentage of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is significantly higher under delayed implantation than under activation. Although the number of miR-21 reference sequence under activation is slightly lower than that under delayed implantation, the total level of miR-21 under activation is higher than that under delayed implantation. Six novel miRNAs are predicted and confirmed. The target genes of significantly up-regulated miRNAs under activation are significantly enriched. Conclusions miRNA and mRNA expression patterns are closely related. The target genes of up-regulated miRNAs are significantly enriched. A high level of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is detected under delayed implantation than under activation. Our data should be valuable for future study on delayed implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Wei Su
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Lei
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-Rong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Bo Jia
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xu-Hui Feng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Gang Ren
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Shi-Jun Hu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- * E-mail:
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16
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Li C, Wang W, Wang H, Zhong Y, Di J, Lin Y. Proteomic analysis of proteins differentially expressed in uterine lymphocytes obtained from wild-type and NOD mice. J Cell Biochem 2009; 108:447-57. [PMID: 19623579 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.22271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice exhibit impaired fertility and decreased litter size when compared to wild type (WT) mice. However, it is unclear why allogeneic pregnant NOD mice are prone to spontaneous embryo loss. Herein, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry (MS) were used to detect differentially expressed proteins in the uterine lymphocytes isolated from these mice and WT BALB/c controls. We found 24 differentially expressed proteins. The differential expression of 10 of these proteins was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. Out of the 24 identified proteins, 20 were expressed in uterine lymphocytes of WT mice at a level at least 2 times higher than in NOD mice, whereas 4 were down-regulated. Western blot analysis confirmed that 8 proteins were up-regulated and 2 proteins were down-regulated in WT mice compared with NOD mice, consistent with the results of 2-DE and MS. Additionally, most of the highly expressed proteins in WT uterine lymphocytes were expressed at a significantly lower level in the corresponding splenic group (17/20). These results suggest that up-regulated expression of these proteins may be specific to uterine lymphocytes. Reported functions of the highly expressed proteins affect key functions during pregnancy, including cell movement, cell cycle control, and metabolisms. Finally, we analyzed the constitutional ratio of CD3(+) and CD49b(+) cells in the isolated lymphocytes by flow cytometry. Our results suggest that the differentially expressed proteins may participate in the modulation of embryo implantation and early-stage development of embryos, and subsequently influence pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Li
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics of Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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17
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Douglas NC, Tang H, Gomez R, Pytowski B, Hicklin DJ, Sauer CM, Kitajewski J, Sauer MV, Zimmermann RC. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) functions to promote uterine decidual angiogenesis during early pregnancy in the mouse. Endocrinology 2009; 150:3845-54. [PMID: 19406950 PMCID: PMC2717882 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-1207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Implantation of an embryo induces rapid proliferation and differentiation of uterine stromal cells, forming a new structure, the decidua. One salient feature of decidua formation is a marked increase in maternal angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-dependent pathways are active in the ovary, uterus, and embryo, and inactivation of VEGF function in any of these structures might prevent normal pregnancy development. We hypothesized that decidual angiogenesis is regulated by VEGF acting through specific VEGF receptors (VEGFRs). To test this hypothesis, we developed a murine pregnancy model in which systemic administration of a receptor-blocking antibody would act specifically on uterine angiogenesis and not on ovarian or embryonic angiogenesis. In our model, ovarian function was replaced with exogenous progesterone, and blocking antibodies were administered prior to embryonic expression of VEGFRs. After administration of a single dose of the anti-VEGFR-2 antibody during the peri-implantation period, no embryos were detected on embryonic d 10.5. The pregnancy was disrupted because of a significant reduction in decidual angiogenesis, which under physiological conditions peaks on embryonic d 5.5 and 6.5. Inactivation of VEGFR-3 reduced angiogenesis in the primary decidual zone, whereas administration of VEGFR-1 blocking antibodies had no effect. Pregnancy was not disrupted after administration of anti-VEGFR-3 or anti-VEGFR-1 antibodies. Thus, the VEGF/VEGFR-2 pathway plays a key role in the maintenance of early pregnancy through its regulation of peri-implantation angiogenesis in the uterine decidua. This newly formed decidual vasculature serves as the first exchange apparatus for the developing embryo until the placenta becomes functionally active.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataki C Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032, USA.
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18
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Ringhoff DN, Cassimeris L. Gene expression profiles in mouse embryo fibroblasts lacking stathmin, a microtubule regulatory protein, reveal changes in the expression of genes contributing to cell motility. BMC Genomics 2009; 10:343. [PMID: 19643027 PMCID: PMC2725145 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-10-343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2009] [Accepted: 07/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stathmin (STMN1) protein functions to regulate assembly of the microtubule cytoskeleton by destabilizing microtubule polymers. Stathmin over-expression has been correlated with cancer stage progression, while stathmin depletion leads to death of some cancer cell lines in culture. In contrast, stathmin-null mice are viable with minor axonopathies and loss of innate fear response. Several stathmin binding partners, in addition to tubulin, have been shown to affect cell motility in culture. To expand our understanding of stathmin function in normal cells, we compared gene expression profiles, measured by microarray and qRT-PCR, of mouse embryo fibroblasts isolated from STMN1+/+ and STMN1-/- mice to determine the transcriptome level changes present in the genetic knock-out of stathmin. RESULTS Microarray analysis of STMN1 loss at a fold change threshold of > or = 2.0 revealed expression changes for 437 genes, of which 269 were up-regulated and 168 were down-regulated. Microarray data and qRT-PCR analysis of mRNA expression demonstrated changes in the message levels for STMN4, encoding RB3, a protein related to stathmin, and in alterations to many tubulin isotype mRNAs. KEGG Pathway analysis of the microarray data indicated changes to cell motility-related genes, and qRT-PCR plates specific for focal adhesion and ECM proteins generally confirmed the microarray data. Several microtubule assembly regulators and motors were also differentially regulated in STMN1-/- cells, but these changes should not compensate for loss of stathmin. CONCLUSION Approximately 50% of genes up or down regulated (at a fold change of > or = 2) in STMN1-/- mouse embryo fibroblasts function broadly in cell adhesion and motility. These results support models indicating a role for stathmin in regulating cell locomotion, but also suggest that this functional activity may involve changes to the cohort of proteins expressed in the cell, rather than as a direct consequence of stathmin-dependent regulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle N Ringhoff
- Chemistry Department, Lehigh University, Mudd Building, 6 E. Packer Avenue, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - Lynne Cassimeris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Lehigh University, Iacocca Hall, 111 Research Drive, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
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19
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Das SK. Cell cycle regulatory control for uterine stromal cell decidualization in implantation. Reproduction 2009; 137:889-99. [PMID: 19307426 DOI: 10.1530/rep-08-0539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Uterine stromal cell decidualization is integral to successful embryo implantation, which is a gateway to pregnancy establishment. This process is characterized by stromal cell proliferation and differentiation into decidual cells with polyploidy. The molecular mechanisms that are involved in these events remain poorly understood. The current concept is that locally induced factors with the onset of implantation influence uterine stromal cell proliferation and/or differentiation through modulation of core cell cycle regulators. This review will aim to address the currently available knowledge on interaction between growth factor/homeobox and cell cycle regulatory signaling in the progression of various aspects of decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjoy K Das
- Reproductive Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3039, USA.
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20
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Kogo H, Yoshie M, Kutsukake M, Tamura K. [Role of implantation-related factors, stathmin and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 in reproductive endocrinology]. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2008; 128:565-74. [PMID: 18379173 DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.128.565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Successful implantation and placentation require that trophoblasts adhere to the uterine epithelium and penetrate the decidualized endometrium. However, the biochemical mechanisms of the establishment of pregnancy including these phenomena have not yet to be definitively elucidated. We have found that stathmin, a cytosolic phosphoprotein that regulates microtubule dynamics, and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGFBP)-related protein 1 (IGFBP-rP1, now called IGF-binding protein 7) were highly expressed in the endometrium around the time of implantation and decidualization. In this article, we review our recent findings of the research regarding the functions of these implantation-associated proteins in endocrine physiology and pharmacology. Analysis of the expression of both factors in rodent and human uterus has revealed that both factors are crucial for the process of endometrial stromal cell differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kogo
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan.
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21
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Mizugishi K, Li C, Olivera A, Bielawski J, Bielawska A, Deng CX, Proia RL. Maternal disturbance in activated sphingolipid metabolism causes pregnancy loss in mice. J Clin Invest 2007; 117:2993-3006. [PMID: 17885683 PMCID: PMC1978422 DOI: 10.1172/jci30674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2006] [Accepted: 06/26/2007] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine decidualization, a process that occurs in response to embryo implantation, is critical for embryonic survival and thus is a key event for successful pregnancy. Here we show that the sphingolipid metabolic pathway is highly activated in the deciduum during pregnancy and disturbance of the pathway by disruption of sphingosine kinase (Sphk) genes causes defective decidualization with severely compromised uterine blood vessels, leading to early pregnancy loss. Sphk-deficient female mice (Sphk1(-/-)Sphk2(+/-)) exhibited both an enormous accumulation of dihydrosphingosine and sphingosine and a reduction in phosphatidylethanolamine levels in pregnant uteri. These mice also revealed increased cell death in decidual cells, decreased cell proliferation in undifferentiated stromal cells, and massive breakage of decidual blood vessels, leading to uterine hemorrhage and early embryonic lethality. Thus, sphingolipid metabolism regulates proper uterine decidualization and blood vessel stability. Our findings also suggest that disturbance in sphingolipid metabolism may be considered as a cause of pregnancy loss in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyomi Mizugishi
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Cuiling Li
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ana Olivera
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Jacek Bielawski
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Alicja Bielawska
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Richard L. Proia
- Genetics of Development and Disease Branch, NIDDK, and
Molecular Immunology and Inflammation Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA
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Tamura K, Yoshie M, Nishi H, Osakabe Y, Isaka K, Hara T, Kogo H. Expression of stathmin in human uterus and decidualizing endometrial stromal cells. Reproduction 2006; 132:625-36. [PMID: 17008474 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.01148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The cytosolic phosphoprotein stathmin is upregulated at the site of embryo implantation in the rodents. However, stathmin expression in the human uterus has not yet been investigated. The distribution of uterine and placental stathmin was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, while stathmin mRNA expression was detected in endometrial tissues by the reverse transcriptase-PCR. Cultured endometrial stromal cells were used to investigate whether stathmin plays a role in decidualization. Stathmin is expressed specifically in the glandular epithelium and the stromal cells of human endometrial tissue. It is also expressed by cytotrophoblasts and extravillous trophoblasts, but not by syncytiotrophoblasts or decidual tissues during the first trimester of pregnancy. When stromal cells isolated from normal endometrial tissues were cultured and stimulated to decidualize by progesterone (P4) plus estrogen or dibutyryl cyclic 3′,5′-AMP, their total and phosphorylated stathmin levels decreased. Knocking down stathmin expression in the cultured stromal cells using small interfering RNA, before the cells were exposed to the decidualizing agents, significantly suppressed decidualization, as indicated by the decreased expression of IGF-binding protein-1 and prolactin. Stathmin is differently expressed in human endometrial and placental cells and may participate in the decidualization of endometrial stromal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Tamura
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Science, 1432-1, Horinouch, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan.
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