1
|
Warner JF, Besemer R, Schickle A, Borbee E, Changsut IV, Sharp K, Babonis LS. Microinjection, gene knockdown, and CRISPR-mediated gene knock-in in the hard coral, Astrangia poculata. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.16.567385. [PMID: 38948709 PMCID: PMC11213136 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.16.567385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Cnidarians have become valuable models for understanding many aspects of developmental biology including the evolution of body plan diversity, novel cell type specification, and regeneration. Most of our understanding of gene function during early development in cnidarians comes from a small number of experimental systems including the sea anemone, Nematostella vectensis. Few molecular tools have been developed for use in hard corals, limiting our understanding of this diverse and ecologically important clade. Here, we report the development of a suite of tools for manipulating and analyzing gene expression during early development in the northern star coral, Astrangia poculata. We present methods for gene knockdown using short hairpin RNAs, gene overexpression using exogenous mRNAs, and endogenous gene tagging using CRISPR-mediated gene knock-in. Combined with our ability to control spawning in the laboratory, these tools make A. poculata a tractable experimental system for investigative studies of coral development. Further application of these tools will enable functional analyses of embryonic patterning and morphogenesis across Anthozoa and open new frontiers in coral biology research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob F. Warner
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, UNC Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409
| | - Ryan Besemer
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, UNC Wilmington, Wilmington, NC, 28409
| | - Alicia Schickle
- Feinstein School of Social and Natural Sciences, Roger Williams University, Bristol, RI 02871
| | - Erin Borbee
- Department of Biology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX, 78666
| | | | - Koty Sharp
- Feinstein School of Social and Natural Sciences, Roger Williams University, Bristol, RI 02871
| | - Leslie S. Babonis
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Primack AS, Cazet JF, Little HM, Mühlbauer S, Cox BD, David CN, Farrell JA, Juliano CE. Differentiation trajectories of the Hydra nervous system reveal transcriptional regulators of neuronal fate. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.15.531610. [PMID: 36993575 PMCID: PMC10055148 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.15.531610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
The small freshwater cnidarian polyp Hydra vulgaris uses adult stem cells (interstitial stem cells) to continually replace neurons throughout its life. This feature, combined with the ability to image the entire nervous system (Badhiwala et al., 2021; Dupre & Yuste, 2017) and availability of gene knockdown techniques (Juliano, Reich, et al., 2014; Lohmann et al., 1999; Vogg et al., 2022), makes Hydra a tractable model for studying nervous system development and regeneration at the whole-organism level. In this study, we use single-cell RNA sequencing and trajectory inference to provide a comprehensive molecular description of the adult nervous system. This includes the most detailed transcriptional characterization of the adult Hydra nervous system to date. We identified eleven unique neuron subtypes together with the transcriptional changes that occur as the interstitial stem cells differentiate into each subtype. Towards the goal of building gene regulatory networks to describe Hydra neuron differentiation, we identified 48 transcription factors expressed specifically in the Hydra nervous system, including many that are conserved regulators of neurogenesis in bilaterians. We also performed ATAC-seq on sorted neurons to uncover previously unidentified putative regulatory regions near neuron-specific genes. Finally, we provide evidence to support the existence of transdifferentiation between mature neuron subtypes and we identify previously unknown transition states in these pathways. All together, we provide a comprehensive transcriptional description of an entire adult nervous system, including differentiation and transdifferentiation pathways, which provides a significant advance towards understanding mechanisms that underlie nervous system regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abby S Primack
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Jack F Cazet
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Hannah Morris Little
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Susanne Mühlbauer
- Department of Plant Biochemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Ben D Cox
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Charles N David
- Department of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Jeffrey A Farrell
- Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Celina E Juliano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Transfection of Sponge Cells and Intracellular Localization of Cancer-Related MYC, RRAS2, and DRG1 Proteins. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21020119. [PMID: 36827160 PMCID: PMC9964533 DOI: 10.3390/md21020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The determination of the protein's intracellular localization is essential for understanding its biological function. Protein localization studies are mainly performed on primary and secondary vertebrate cell lines for which most protocols have been optimized. In spite of experimental difficulties, studies on invertebrate cells, including basal Metazoa, have greatly advanced. In recent years, the interest in studying human diseases from an evolutionary perspective has significantly increased. Sponges, placed at the base of the animal tree, are simple animals without true tissues and organs but with a complex genome containing many genes whose human homologs have been implicated in human diseases, including cancer. Therefore, sponges are an innovative model for elucidating the fundamental role of the proteins involved in cancer. In this study, we overexpressed human cancer-related proteins and their sponge homologs in human cancer cells, human fibroblasts, and sponge cells. We demonstrated that human and sponge MYC proteins localize in the nucleus, the RRAS2 in the plasma membrane, the membranes of the endolysosomal vesicles, and the DRG1 in the cell's cytosol. Despite the very low transfection efficiency of sponge cells, we observed an identical localization of human proteins and their sponge homologs, indicating their similar cellular functions.
Collapse
|
4
|
Stanković D, Csordás G, Uhlirova M. Drosophila pVALIUM10 TRiP RNAi lines cause undesired silencing of Gateway-based transgenes. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:6/2/e202201801. [PMID: 36446522 PMCID: PMC9711858 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-transcriptional gene silencing using double-stranded RNA has revolutionized the field of functional genetics, allowing fast and easy disruption of gene function in various organisms. In Drosophila, many transgenic RNAi lines have been generated in large-scale efforts, including the Drosophila Transgenic RNAi Project (TRiP), to facilitate in vivo knockdown of virtually any Drosophila gene with spatial and temporal resolution. The available transgenic RNAi lines represent a fundamental resource for the fly community, providing an unprecedented opportunity to address a vast range of biological questions relevant to basic and biomedical research fields. However, caution should be applied regarding the efficiency and specificity of the RNAi approach. Here, we demonstrate that pVALIUM10-based RNAi lines, representing ∼13% of the total TRiP collection (1,808 of 13,410 pVALIUM TRiP-based RNAi lines), cause unintended off-target silencing of transgenes expressed from Gateway destination vectors. The silencing is mediated by targeting attB1 and attB2 sequences generated via site-specific recombination and included in the transcribed mRNA. Deleting these attB sites from the Gateway expression vector prevents silencing and restores expected transgene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrije Stanković
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gábor Csordás
- Institute of Genetics, Biological Research Centre of the Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mirka Uhlirova
- Institute for Genetics and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vogg MC, Ferenc J, Buzgariu WC, Perruchoud C, Sanchez PGL, Beccari L, Nuninger C, Le Cras Y, Delucinge-Vivier C, Papasaikas P, Vincent S, Galliot B, Tsiairis CD. The transcription factor Zic4 promotes tentacle formation and prevents epithelial transdifferentiation in Hydra. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo0694. [PMID: 36563144 PMCID: PMC9788771 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo0694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms that maintain cellular identities and prevent dedifferentiation or transdifferentiation remain mysterious. However, both processes are transiently used during animal regeneration. Therefore, organisms that regenerate their organs, appendages, or even their whole body offer a fruitful paradigm to investigate the regulation of cell fate stability. Here, we used Hydra as a model system and show that Zic4, whose expression is controlled by Wnt3/β-catenin signaling and the Sp5 transcription factor, plays a key role in tentacle formation and tentacle maintenance. Reducing Zic4 expression suffices to induce transdifferentiation of tentacle epithelial cells into foot epithelial cells. This switch requires the reentry of tentacle battery cells into the cell cycle without cell division and is accompanied by degeneration of nematocytes embedded in these cells. These results indicate that maintenance of cell fate by a Wnt-controlled mechanism is a key process both during homeostasis and during regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Christian Vogg
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics (iGE3), Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Jaroslav Ferenc
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, Basel 4058, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, Basel 4001, Switzerland
| | - Wanda Christa Buzgariu
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics (iGE3), Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Chrystelle Perruchoud
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics (iGE3), Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Paul Gerald Layague Sanchez
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics (iGE3), Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Leonardo Beccari
- Institut NeuroMyoGène, CNRS UMR 5310, INSERM U1217, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Clara Nuninger
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, Basel 4058, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Petersplatz 1, Basel 4001, Switzerland
| | - Youn Le Cras
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, Basel 4058, Switzerland
| | - Céline Delucinge-Vivier
- iGE3 Genomics Platform, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
| | - Panagiotis Papasaikas
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, Basel 4058, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Basel 4058, Switzerland
| | - Stéphane Vincent
- Laboratoire de Biologie et Modélisation de la Cellule, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, CNRS, UMR 5239, Inserm, U1293, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 46 allée d’Italie, Lyon F-69364, France
| | - Brigitte Galliot
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics (iGE3), Faculty of Sciences, University of Geneva, 30 Quai Ernest Ansermet, Geneva 4 1211, Switzerland
- Corresponding author. (B.G.); (C.D.T.)
| | - Charisios D. Tsiairis
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, Basel 4058, Switzerland
- Corresponding author. (B.G.); (C.D.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pillai A, Gungi A, Reddy PC, Galande S. Epigenetic Regulation in Hydra: Conserved and Divergent Roles. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:663208. [PMID: 34041242 PMCID: PMC8141815 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.663208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Transitions in gene regulatory processes responsible for the emergence of specialized cell types and spatiotemporal regulation of developmental signaling prior to the divergence of Cnidaria and Bilateria are poorly understood. As a sister group of Bilateria, the phylum Cnidaria can provide significant insights into these processes. Among the cnidarians, hydrae have been studied for >250 years to comprehend the mechanisms underlying their unique immortality and robust regenerative capacity. Studies on Hydra spp. and other pre-bilaterians alike have advanced our understanding of the evolutionary underpinnings governing eumetazoan tissue development, homeostasis, and regeneration. In addition to its regenerative potential, Hydra exhibits continuously active axial patterning due to its peculiar tissue dynamics. These distinctive physiological processes necessitate large scale gene expression changes that are governed by the multitude of epigenetic mechanisms operating in cells. This review highlights the contemporary knowledge of epigenetic regulation in Hydra with contemporary studies from other members of Cnidaria, as well as the interplay between regulatory mechanisms wherever demonstrated. The studies covered in the scope of this review reveal both ancestral and divergent roles played by conserved epigenetic mechanisms with emphasis on transcriptional regulation. Additionally, single-cell transcriptomics data was mined to predict the physiological relevance of putative gene regulatory components, which is in agreement with published findings and yielded insights into the possible functions of the gene regulatory mechanisms that are yet to be deciphered in Hydra, such as DNA methylation. Finally, we delineate potentially rewarding epigenetics research avenues that can further leverage the unique biology of Hydra.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Puli Chandramouli Reddy
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, India
| | - Sanjeev Galande
- Centre of Excellence in Epigenetics, Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Barve A, Galande AA, Ghaskadbi SS, Ghaskadbi S. DNA Repair Repertoire of the Enigmatic Hydra. Front Genet 2021; 12:670695. [PMID: 33995496 PMCID: PMC8117345 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.670695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since its discovery by Abraham Trembley in 1744, hydra has been a popular research organism. Features like spectacular regeneration capacity, peculiar tissue dynamics, continuous pattern formation, unique evolutionary position, and an apparent lack of organismal senescence make hydra an intriguing animal to study. While a large body of work has taken place, particularly in the domain of evolutionary developmental biology of hydra, in recent years, the focus has shifted to molecular mechanisms underlying various phenomena. DNA repair is a fundamental cellular process that helps to maintain integrity of the genome through multiple repair pathways found across taxa, from archaea to higher animals. DNA repair capacity and senescence are known to be closely associated, with mutations in several repair pathways leading to premature ageing phenotypes. Analysis of DNA repair in an animal like hydra could offer clues into several aspects including hydra’s purported lack of organismal ageing, evolution of DNA repair systems in metazoa, and alternative functions of repair proteins. We review here the different DNA repair mechanisms known so far in hydra. Hydra genes from various DNA repair pathways show very high similarity with their vertebrate orthologues, indicating conservation at the level of sequence, structure, and function. Notably, most hydra repair genes are more similar to deuterostome counterparts than to common model invertebrates, hinting at ancient evolutionary origins of repair pathways and further highlighting the relevance of organisms like hydra as model systems. It appears that hydra has the full repertoire of DNA repair pathways, which are employed in stress as well as normal physiological conditions and may have a link with its observed lack of senescence. The close correspondence of hydra repair genes with higher vertebrates further demonstrates the need for deeper studies of various repair components, their interconnections, and functions in this early metazoan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Apurva Barve
- Developmental Biology Group, MACS-Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, India.,Centre of Excellence in Science and Mathematics Education, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, India
| | - Alisha A Galande
- Developmental Biology Group, MACS-Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, India
| | - Saroj S Ghaskadbi
- Department of Zoology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Surendra Ghaskadbi
- Developmental Biology Group, MACS-Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gene knockdown via electroporation of short hairpin RNAs in embryos of the marine hydroid Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus. Sci Rep 2020; 10:12806. [PMID: 32732955 PMCID: PMC7393174 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-69489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Analyzing gene function in a broad range of research organisms is crucial for understanding the biological functions of genes and their evolution. Recent studies have shown that short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) can induce gene-specific knockdowns in two cnidarian species. We have developed a detailed, straightforward, and scalable method to deliver shRNAs into fertilized eggs of the hydrozoan cnidarian Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus via electroporation, yielding effective gene-targeted knockdowns that can last throughout embryogenesis. Our electroporation protocol allows for the transfection of shRNAs into hundreds of fertilized H. symbiolongicarpus eggs simultaneously with minimal embryo death and no long-term harmful consequences on the developing animals. We show RT-qPCR and detailed phenotypic evidence of our method successfully inducing effective knockdowns of an exogenous gene (eGFP) and an endogenous gene (Nanos2), as well as knockdown confirmation by RT-qPCR of two other endogenous genes. We also provide visual confirmation of successful shRNA transfection inside embryos through electroporation. Our detailed protocol for electroporation of shRNAs in H. symbiolongicarpus embryos constitutes an important experimental resource for the hydrozoan community while also serving as a successful model for the development of similar methods for interrogating gene function in other marine invertebrates.
Collapse
|
9
|
Mehta AS, Singh A. Insights into regeneration tool box: An animal model approach. Dev Biol 2019; 453:111-129. [PMID: 30986388 PMCID: PMC6684456 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
For ages, regeneration has intrigued countless biologists, clinicians, and biomedical engineers. In recent years, significant progress made in identification and characterization of a regeneration tool kit has helped the scientific community to understand the mechanism(s) involved in regeneration across animal kingdom. These mechanistic insights revealed that evolutionarily conserved pathways like Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, BMP, and JAK/STAT are involved in regeneration. Furthermore, advancement in high throughput screening approaches like transcriptomic analysis followed by proteomic validations have discovered many novel genes, and regeneration specific enhancers that are specific to highly regenerative species like Hydra, Planaria, Newts, and Zebrafish. Since genetic machinery is highly conserved across the animal kingdom, it is possible to engineer these genes and regeneration specific enhancers in species with limited regeneration properties like Drosophila, and mammals. Since these models are highly versatile and genetically tractable, cross-species comparative studies can generate mechanistic insights in regeneration for animals with long gestation periods e.g. Newts. In addition, it will allow extrapolation of regenerative capabilities from highly regenerative species to animals with low regeneration potential, e.g. mammals. In future, these studies, along with advancement in tissue engineering applications, can have strong implications in the field of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abijeet S Mehta
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, 45469, USA
| | - Amit Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, 45469, USA; Premedical Program, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, 45469, USA; Center for Tissue Regeneration and Engineering at Dayton (TREND), University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, 45469, USA; The Integrative Science and Engineering Center, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, 45469, USA; Center for Genomic Advocacy (TCGA), Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schultz RM, Stein P, Svoboda P. The oocyte-to-embryo transition in mouse: past, present, and future. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:160-174. [PMID: 29462259 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) arguably initiates with formation of a primordial follicle and culminates with reprogramming of gene expression during the course of zygotic genome activation. This transition results in converting a highly differentiated cell, i.e. oocyte, to undifferentiated cells, i.e. initial blastomeres of a preimplantation embryo. A plethora of changes occur during the OET and include, but are not limited to, changes in transcription, chromatin structure, and protein synthesis; accumulation of macromolecules and organelles that will comprise the oocyte's maternal contribution to the early embryo; sequential acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence to name but a few. This review will focus on transcriptional and post-transcriptional changes that occur during OET in mouse because such changes are likely the major driving force for OET. We often take a historical and personal perspective, and highlight how advances in experimental methods often catalyzed conceptual advances in understanding the molecular bases for OET. We also point out questions that remain open and therefore represent topics of interest for future investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Schultz
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology, Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Paula Stein
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Petr Svoboda
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rentzsch F, Juliano C, Galliot B. Modern genomic tools reveal the structural and cellular diversity of cnidarian nervous systems. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 56:87-96. [PMID: 30654234 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cnidarians shared a common ancestor with bilaterians more than 600 million years ago. This sister group relationship gives them an informative phylogenetic position for understanding the fascinating morphological and molecular cell type diversity of bilaterian nervous systems. Moreover, cnidarians display novel features such as endodermal neurogenesis and independently evolved centralizations, which provide a platform for understanding the evolution of nervous system innovations. In recent years, the application of modern genomic tools has significantly advanced our understanding of cnidarian nervous system structure and function. For example, transgenic reporter lines and gene knockdown experiments in several cnidarian species reveal a significant degree of conservation in the neurogenesis gene regulatory program, while single cell RNA sequencing projects are providing a much deeper understanding of cnidarian neural cell type diversity. At the level of neural function, the physiological properties of ion channels have been described and calcium imaging of the nervous system in whole animals has allowed for the identification of neural circuits underlying specific behaviours. Cnidarians have arrived in the modern era of molecular neurobiology and are primed to provide exciting new insights into the early evolution of nervous systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Rentzsch
- Sars Centre for Marine Molecular Biology, Norway; Department for Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Norway.
| | - Celina Juliano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California Davis, CA 95616, United States.
| | - Brigitte Galliot
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Genetics and Genomics in Geneva (iGE3), University of Geneva, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Understanding how and why animals regenerate complex tissues has the potential to transform regenerative medicine. Here we present an overview of genetic approaches that have recently been applied to dissect mechanisms of regeneration. We describe new advances that relate to central objectives of regeneration biologists researching different tissues and species, focusing mainly on vertebrates. These objectives include defining the cellular sources and key cell behaviors in regenerating tissue, elucidating molecular triggers and brakes for regeneration, and defining the earliest events that control the presence of these molecular factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hui Chen
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
| | - Kenneth D Poss
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA;
- Regeneration Next, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rentzsch F, Layden M, Manuel M. The cellular and molecular basis of cnidarian neurogenesis. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2016; 6. [PMID: 27882698 PMCID: PMC6680159 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurogenesis initiates during early development and it continues through later developmental stages and in adult animals to enable expansion, remodeling, and homeostasis of the nervous system. The generation of nerve cells has been analyzed in detail in few bilaterian model organisms, leaving open many questions about the evolution of this process. As the sister group to bilaterians, cnidarians occupy an informative phylogenetic position to address the early evolution of cellular and molecular aspects of neurogenesis and to understand common principles of neural development. Here we review studies in several cnidarian model systems that have revealed significant similarities and interesting differences compared to neurogenesis in bilaterian species, and between different cnidarian taxa. Cnidarian neurogenesis is currently best understood in the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis, where it includes epithelial neural progenitor cells that express transcription factors of the soxB and atonal families. Notch signaling regulates the number of these neural progenitor cells, achaete‐scute and dmrt genes are required for their further development and Wnt and BMP signaling appear to be involved in the patterning of the nervous system. In contrast to many vertebrates and Drosophila, cnidarians have a high capacity to generate neurons throughout their lifetime and during regeneration. Utilizing this feature of cnidarian biology will likely allow gaining new insights into the similarities and differences of embryonic and regenerative neurogenesis. The use of different cnidarian model systems and their expanding experimental toolkits will thus continue to provide a better understanding of evolutionary and developmental aspects of nervous system formation. WIREs Dev Biol 2017, 6:e257. doi: 10.1002/wdev.257 This article is categorized under:
Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Cellular Differentiation Signaling Pathways > Cell Fate Signaling Comparative Development and Evolution > Organ System Comparisons Between Species
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Rentzsch
- Sars Centre for Marine Molecular Biology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Michaël Manuel
- Sorbonne Universités, UMPC Univ Paris 06, CNRS, Evolution Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine (IBPS), Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang G, He LS, Wong YH, Yu L, Qian PY. siRNA transfection in the barnacle Amphibalanus amphitrite larvae. J Exp Biol 2015; 218:2505-9. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.120113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) provides an efficient and specific technique for functional genomic studies. Yet, no successful application of RNAi has been reported in barnacles. In this study, siRNA against p38 MAPK was synthesized and then transfected into A. amphitrite larvae at either nauplius or cyprid stage, or both. Effects of siRNA transfection on p38 MAPK level were hardly detectable in the cyprids that their corresponding nauplii were transfected. In contrast, larvae that were transfected at cyprid stage showed lower level of p38 MAPK than the blank and reagent controls. However, significantly decreased level of phosphorylated p38 MAPK (pp38 MAPK) and reduced settlement rate were observed only in the “Double Transfection”, in which larvae were exposed to siRNA solution at both the nauplius and cyprid stages. Relatively longer transfection time and more cells of the larvae exposed to siRNA directly might explain the higher efficiency in the “Double Transfection”.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gen Zhang
- Environmental Science Programs, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- KAUST Global Collaborative Research Program, Division of Life Science, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Li-sheng He
- KAUST Global Collaborative Research Program, Division of Life Science, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Sanya Institute of Deep-sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Science, No. 62, Fenghuang Road, Sanya City, Hainan Province, China, 572000
| | - Yue Him Wong
- KAUST Global Collaborative Research Program, Division of Life Science, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Li Yu
- Environmental Science Programs, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- KAUST Global Collaborative Research Program, Division of Life Science, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pei-yuan Qian
- Environmental Science Programs, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- KAUST Global Collaborative Research Program, Division of Life Science, School of Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Barreto FS, Schoville SD, Burton RS. Reverse genetics in the tide pool: knock-down of target gene expression via RNA interference in the copepodTigriopus californicus. Mol Ecol Resour 2014; 15:868-79. [DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 12/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe S. Barreto
- Marine Biology Research Division; Scripps Institution of Oceanography; University of California; San Diego La Jolla CA 92037 USA
| | - Sean D. Schoville
- Department of Entomology; University of Wisconsin-Madison; Madison WI 53706 USA
| | - Ronald S. Burton
- Marine Biology Research Division; Scripps Institution of Oceanography; University of California; San Diego La Jolla CA 92037 USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lapébie P, Ruggiero A, Barreau C, Chevalier S, Chang P, Dru P, Houliston E, Momose T. Differential responses to Wnt and PCP disruption predict expression and developmental function of conserved and novel genes in a cnidarian. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004590. [PMID: 25233086 PMCID: PMC4169000 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We have used Digital Gene Expression analysis to identify, without bilaterian bias, regulators of cnidarian embryonic patterning. Transcriptome comparison between un-manipulated Clytia early gastrula embryos and ones in which the key polarity regulator Wnt3 was inhibited using morpholino antisense oligonucleotides (Wnt3-MO) identified a set of significantly over and under-expressed transcripts. These code for candidate Wnt signaling modulators, orthologs of other transcription factors, secreted and transmembrane proteins known as developmental regulators in bilaterian models or previously uncharacterized, and also many cnidarian-restricted proteins. Comparisons between embryos injected with morpholinos targeting Wnt3 and its receptor Fz1 defined four transcript classes showing remarkable correlation with spatiotemporal expression profiles. Class 1 and 3 transcripts tended to show sustained expression at "oral" and "aboral" poles respectively of the developing planula larva, class 2 transcripts in cells ingressing into the endodermal region during gastrulation, while class 4 gene expression was repressed at the early gastrula stage. The preferential effect of Fz1-MO on expression of class 2 and 4 transcripts can be attributed to Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) disruption, since it was closely matched by morpholino knockdown of the specific PCP protein Strabismus. We conclude that endoderm and post gastrula-specific gene expression is particularly sensitive to PCP disruption while Wnt-/β-catenin signaling dominates gene regulation along the oral-aboral axis. Phenotype analysis using morpholinos targeting a subset of transcripts indicated developmental roles consistent with expression profiles for both conserved and cnidarian-restricted genes. Overall our unbiased screen allowed systematic identification of regionally expressed genes and provided functional support for a shared eumetazoan developmental regulatory gene set with both predicted and previously unexplored members, but also demonstrated that fundamental developmental processes including axial patterning and endoderm formation in cnidarians can involve newly evolved (or highly diverged) genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Lapébie
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Antonella Ruggiero
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Carine Barreau
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Sandra Chevalier
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Patrick Chang
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Philippe Dru
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Evelyn Houliston
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Tsuyoshi Momose
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, and CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Observatoire Océanographique, Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Pernice M, Levy O. Novel tools integrating metabolic and gene function to study the impact of the environment on coral symbiosis. Front Microbiol 2014; 5:448. [PMID: 25191321 PMCID: PMC4140168 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2014.00448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The symbiotic dinoflagellates (genus Symbiodinium) inhabiting coral endodermal tissues are well known for their role as keystone symbiotic partners, providing corals with enormous amounts of energy acquired via photosynthesis and the absorption of dissolved nutrients. In the past few decades, corals reefs worldwide have been increasingly affected by coral bleaching (i.e., the breakdown of the symbiosis between corals and their dinoflagellate symbionts), which carries important socio-economic implications. Consequently, the number of studies focusing on the molecular and cellular processes underlying this biological phenomenon has grown rapidly, and symbiosis is now widely recognized as a major topic in coral biology. However, obtaining a clear image of the interplay between the environment and this mutualistic symbiosis remains challenging. Here, we review the potential of recent technological advances in molecular biology and approaches using stable isotopes to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding coral symbiotic function. Finally, we emphasize that the largest opportunity to achieve the full potential in this field arises from the integration of these technological advances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Pernice
- Plant Functional Biology and Climate Change Cluster, University of Technology, Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Oren Levy
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University Ramat Gan, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Glasser E, Rachamim T, Aharonovich D, Sher D. Hydra actinoporin-like toxin-1, an unusual hemolysin from the nematocyst venom of Hydra magnipapillata which belongs to an extended gene family. Toxicon 2014; 91:103-13. [PMID: 24768765 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cnidarians rely on their nematocysts and the venom injected through these unique weaponry systems to catch prey and protect themselves from predators. The development and physiology of the nematocysts of Hydra magnipapillata, a classic model organism, have been intensively studied, yet the composition and biochemical activity of their venom components are mostly unknown. Here, we show that hydra actinoporin-like toxins (HALTs), which have previously been associated with Hydra nematocysts, belong to a multigene family comprising six genes, which have diverged from a single common ancestor. All six genes are expressed in a population of Hydra magnipapillata. When expressed recombinantly, HALT-1 (Δ-HYTX-Hma1a), an actinoporin-like protein found in the stenoteles (the main penetrating nematocysts used in prey capture), reveals hemolytic activity, albeit about two-thirds lower than that of the anemone actinoporin equinatoxin II (EqTII, Δ-AITX-Aeq1a). HALT-1 also differs from EqTII in the size of its pores, and likely does not utilize sphingomyelin as a membrane receptor. We describe features of the HALT-1 sequence which may contribute to this difference in activity, and speculate on the role of this unusual family of pore-forming toxins in the ecology of Hydra.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliezra Glasser
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, 31905 Haifa, Israel
| | - Tamar Rachamim
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, 31905 Haifa, Israel
| | - Dikla Aharonovich
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, 31905 Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniel Sher
- Department of Marine Biology, Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, 31905 Haifa, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Glauber KM, Dana CE, Park SS, Colby DA, Noro Y, Fujisawa T, Chamberlin AR, Steele RE. A small molecule screen identifies a novel compound that induces a homeotic transformation in Hydra. Development 2014; 140:4788-96. [PMID: 24255098 DOI: 10.1242/dev.094490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Developmental processes such as morphogenesis, patterning and differentiation are continuously active in the adult Hydra polyp. We carried out a small molecule screen to identify compounds that affect patterning in Hydra. We identified a novel molecule, DAC-2-25, that causes a homeotic transformation of body column into tentacle zone. This transformation occurs in a progressive and polar fashion, beginning at the oral end of the animal. We have identified several strains that respond to DAC-2-25 and one that does not, and we used chimeras from these strains to identify the ectoderm as the target tissue for DAC-2-25. Using transgenic Hydra that express green fluorescent protein under the control of relevant promoters, we examined how DAC-2-25 affects tentacle patterning. Genes whose expression is associated with the tentacle zone are ectopically expressed upon exposure to DAC-2-25, whereas those associated with body column tissue are turned off as the tentacle zone expands. The expression patterns of the organizer-associated gene HyWnt3 and the hypostome-specific gene HyBra2 are unchanged. Structure-activity relationship studies have identified features of DAC-2-25 that are required for activity and potency. This study shows that small molecule screens in Hydra can be used to dissect patterning processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristine M Glauber
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hiruta C, Toyota K, Miyakawa H, Ogino Y, Miyagawa S, Tatarazako N, Shaw JR, Iguchi T. Development of a microinjection system for RNA interference in the water flea Daphnia pulex. BMC Biotechnol 2013; 13:96. [PMID: 24188141 PMCID: PMC4228505 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-13-96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ubiquitous, freshwater microcrustacean Daphnia pulex provides a model system for both human health research and monitoring ecosystem integrity. It is the first crustacean to have a well annotated, reference genome assembly that revealed an unusually high gene count highlighted by a large gene orphanage,-i.e., previously uncharacterized genes. Daphnia are capable of either clonal or sexual reproduction, making them ideally suited for genetic manipulation, but the establishment of gene manipulation techniques is needed to accurately define gene functions. Although previous investigations developed an RNA interference (RNAi) system for one congener D. magna, these methods are not appropriate for D. pulex because of the smaller size of their early embryos. In these studies, we develop RNAi techniques for D. pulex by first determining the optimum culture conditions of their isolated embryos and then applying these conditions to the development of microinjection techniques and proof-of-principle RNAi experiments. Results We found that isolated embryos were best cultured on a 2% agar plate bathed in 60 mM sucrose dissolved in M4 media, providing optimal conditions for microinjections. Then, we injected double-stranded (ds)RNA specific to the Distal-less gene (Dll), which is a homeobox transcription factor essential for limb development in invertebrates and vertebrates. Injected embryos presented with defects in the second antenna and appendage development, and dsRNA induced the degradation of Dll mRNAs, indicating that this technique successfully inhibited transcription of the target gene. Conclusions We developed a microinjection system for RNAi studies in D. pulex. These techniques add to the growing genomic toolbox and enhance the genetic tractability of this important model for environmental, evolutionary, and developmental genomics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Taisen Iguchi
- Okazaki Institute for Integrative Bioscience, National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, 5-1 Higashiyama, Myodaiji, Okazaki, Aichi 444-8787, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Franco C, Soares R, Pires E, Koci K, Almeida AM, Santos R, Coelho AV. Understanding regeneration through proteomics. Proteomics 2013; 13:686-709. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201200397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Revised: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Franco
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
| | - Renata Soares
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
| | - Elisabete Pires
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
| | - Kamila Koci
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
| | - André M. Almeida
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação Científica Tropical; Lisboa Portugal
| | - Romana Santos
- Unidade de Investigação em Ciências Orais e Biomédicas, Faculdade de Medicina Dentária; Universidade de Lisboa; Portugal
| | - Ana Varela Coelho
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica; Universidade Nova de Lisboa; Oeiras Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Horn T, Boutros M. Design of RNAi reagents for invertebrate model organisms and human disease vectors. Methods Mol Biol 2013; 942:315-346. [PMID: 23027059 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-119-6_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
RNAi has become a very versatile tool to silence gene expression in a variety of organisms, in particular when classical genetic methods are missing. However, the application of this method in functional studies has raised new challenges in order to design RNAi reagents that minimize false positives and false negatives. Because the performance of reagents cannot be validated on a genome-wide scale, improved computational methods are required that consider experimentally derived quality measures. In this chapter, we describe computational methods for the design of RNAi reagents for invertebrate model organisms and human disease vectors, such as Anopheles. We describe procedures for designing short and long double-stranded RNAs for single genes, and evaluate their predicted specificity and efficiency. Using a bioinformatics pipeline we also describe how to design a genome-wide RNAi library for Anopheles gambiae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Horn
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Krishna S, Nair A, Cheedipudi S, Poduval D, Dhawan J, Palakodeti D, Ghanekar Y. Deep sequencing reveals unique small RNA repertoire that is regulated during head regeneration in Hydra magnipapillata. Nucleic Acids Res 2012; 41:599-616. [PMID: 23166307 PMCID: PMC3592418 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gks1020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs such as miRNAs, piRNAs and endo-siRNAs fine-tune gene expression through post-transcriptional regulation, modulating important processes in development, differentiation, homeostasis and regeneration. Using deep sequencing, we have profiled small non-coding RNAs in Hydra magnipapillata and investigated changes in small RNA expression pattern during head regeneration. Our results reveal a unique repertoire of small RNAs in hydra. We have identified 126 miRNA loci; 123 of these miRNAs are unique to hydra. Less than 50% are conserved across two different strains of Hydra vulgaris tested in this study, indicating a highly diverse nature of hydra miRNAs in contrast to bilaterian miRNAs. We also identified siRNAs derived from precursors with perfect stem-loop structure and that arise from inverted repeats. piRNAs were the most abundant small RNAs in hydra, mapping to transposable elements, the annotated transcriptome and unique non-coding regions on the genome. piRNAs that map to transposable elements and the annotated transcriptome display a ping-pong signature. Further, we have identified several miRNAs and piRNAs whose expression is regulated during hydra head regeneration. Our study defines different classes of small RNAs in this cnidarian model system, which may play a role in orchestrating gene expression essential for hydra regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srikar Krishna
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Centre for Biological Sciences, GKVK Campus, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ambrosone A, Marchesano V, Tino A, Hobmayer B, Tortiglione C. Hymyc1 downregulation promotes stem cell proliferation in Hydra vulgaris. PLoS One 2012; 7:e30660. [PMID: 22292012 PMCID: PMC3264606 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0030660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [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: 08/04/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydra is a unique model for studying the mechanisms underlying stem cell biology. The activity of the three stem cell lineages structuring its body constantly replenishes mature cells lost due to normal tissue turnover. By a poorly understood mechanism, stem cells are maintained through self-renewal while concomitantly producing differentiated progeny. In vertebrates, one of many genes that participate in regulating stem cell homeostasis is the protooncogene c-myc, which has been recently identified also in Hydra, and found expressed in the interstitial stem cell lineage. In the present paper, by developing a novel strategy of RNA interference-mediated gene silencing (RNAi) based on an enhanced uptake of small interfering RNAi (siRNA), we provide molecular and biological evidence for an unexpected function of the Hydra myc gene (Hymyc1) in the homeostasis of the interstitial stem cell lineage. We found that Hymyc1 inhibition impairs the balance between stem cell self renewal/differentiation, as shown by the accumulation of stem cell intermediate and terminal differentiation products in genetically interfered animals. The identical phenotype induced by the 10058-F4 inhibitor, a disruptor of c-Myc/Max dimerization, demonstrates the specificity of the RNAi approach. We show the kinetic and the reversible feature of Hymyc1 RNAi, together with the effects displayed on regenerating animals. Our results show the involvement of Hymyc1 in the control of interstitial stem cell dynamics, provide new clues to decipher the molecular control of the cell and tissue plasticity in Hydra, and also provide further insights into the complex myc network in higher organisms. The ability of Hydra cells to uptake double stranded RNA and to trigger a RNAi response lays the foundations of a comprehensive analysis of the RNAi response in Hydra allowing us to track back in the evolution and the origin of this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ambrosone
- Istituto di Cibernetica “E Caianiello,” Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Valentina Marchesano
- Istituto di Cibernetica “E Caianiello,” Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Angela Tino
- Istituto di Cibernetica “E Caianiello,” Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Bert Hobmayer
- Zoological Institute and Center for Molecular Biosciences, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Tortiglione
- Istituto di Cibernetica “E Caianiello,” Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Pozzuoli, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mohr SE, Perrimon N. RNAi screening: new approaches, understandings, and organisms. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2011; 3:145-58. [PMID: 21953743 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) leads to sequence-specific knockdown of gene function. The approach can be used in large-scale screens to interrogate function in various model organisms and an increasing number of other species. Genome-scale RNAi screens are routinely performed in cultured or primary cells or in vivo in organisms such as C. elegans. High-throughput RNAi screening is benefitting from the development of sophisticated new instrumentation and software tools for collecting and analyzing data, including high-content image data. The results of large-scale RNAi screens have already proved useful, leading to new understandings of gene function relevant to topics such as infection, cancer, obesity, and aging. Nevertheless, important caveats apply and should be taken into consideration when developing or interpreting RNAi screens. Some level of false discovery is inherent to high-throughput approaches and specific to RNAi screens, false discovery due to off-target effects (OTEs) of RNAi reagents remains a problem. The need to improve our ability to use RNAi to elucidate gene function at large scale and in additional systems continues to be addressed through improved RNAi library design, development of innovative computational and analysis tools and other approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E Mohr
- Drosophila RNAi Screening Center, Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Podolska K, Svoboda P. Targeting genes in living mammals by RNA interference. Brief Funct Genomics 2011; 10:238-47. [DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elr013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
|
27
|
Rivera AS, Hammel JU, Haen KM, Danka ES, Cieniewicz B, Winters IP, Posfai D, Wörheide G, Lavrov DV, Knight SW, Hill MS, Hill AL, Nickel M. RNA interference in marine and freshwater sponges: actin knockdown in Tethya wilhelma and Ephydatia muelleri by ingested dsRNA expressing bacteria. BMC Biotechnol 2011; 11:67. [PMID: 21679422 PMCID: PMC3146823 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6750-11-67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The marine sponge Tethya wilhelma and the freshwater sponge Ephydatia muelleri are emerging model organisms to study evolution, gene regulation, development, and physiology in non-bilaterian animal systems. Thus far, functional methods (i.e., loss or gain of function) for these organisms have not been available. Results We show that soaking developing freshwater sponges in double-stranded RNA and/or feeding marine and freshwater sponges bacteria expressing double-stranded RNA can lead to RNA interference and reduction of targeted transcript levels. These methods, first utilized in C. elegans, have been adapted for the development and feeding style of easily cultured marine and freshwater poriferans. We demonstrate phenotypic changes result from 'knocking down' expression of the actin gene. Conclusion This technique provides an easy, efficient loss-of-function manipulation for developmental and gene regulatory studies in these important non-bilaterian animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajna S Rivera
- Department of Biology, University of Richmond, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
There is growing interest in the use of cnidarians (corals, sea anemones, jellyfish and hydroids) to investigate the evolution of key aspects of animal development, such as the formation of the third germ layer (mesoderm), the nervous system and the generation of bilaterality. The recent sequencing of the Nematostella and Hydra genomes, and the establishment of methods for manipulating gene expression, have inspired new research efforts using cnidarians. Here, we present the main features of cnidarian models and their advantages for research, and summarize key recent findings using these models that have informed our understanding of the evolution of the developmental processes underlying metazoan body plan formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Technau
- Department for Molecular Evolution and Development, Centre for Organismal Systems Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
| | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Development of an RNA interference method in the cladoceran crustacean Daphnia magna. Dev Genes Evol 2011; 220:337-45. [DOI: 10.1007/s00427-011-0353-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 02/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
30
|
Evidence for an instructive role of apoptosis during the metamorphosis of Hydractinia echinata (Hydrozoa). ZOOLOGY 2011; 114:11-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2010.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2010] [Revised: 06/09/2010] [Accepted: 09/19/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
31
|
Abstract
The germline of multicellular animals is segregated from somatic tissues, which is an essential developmental process for the next generation. Although certain ecdysozoans and chordates segregate their germline during embryogenesis, animals from other taxa segregate their germline after embryogenesis from multipotent progenitor cells. An overlapping set of genes, including vasa, nanos and piwi, operate in both multipotent precursors and in the germline. As we propose here, this conservation implies the existence of an underlying germline multipotency program in these cell types that has a previously underappreciated and conserved function in maintaining multipotency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celina E. Juliano
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - S. Zachary Swartz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Gary M. Wessel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Steele RE, David CN, Technau U. A genomic view of 500 million years of cnidarian evolution. Trends Genet 2010; 27:7-13. [PMID: 21047698 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Revised: 09/23/2010] [Accepted: 10/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cnidarians (corals, anemones, jellyfish and hydras) are a diverse group of animals of interest to evolutionary biologists, ecologists and developmental biologists. With the publication of the genome sequences of Hydra and Nematostella, whose last common ancestor was the stem cnidarian, researchers are beginning to see the genomic underpinnings of cnidarian biology. Cnidarians are known for the remarkable plasticity of their morphology and life cycles. This plasticity is reflected in the Hydra and Nematostella genomes, which differ to an exceptional degree in size, base composition, transposable element content and gene conservation. It is now known what cnidarian genomes, given 500 million years, are capable of; as we discuss here, the next challenge is to understand how this genomic history has led to the striking diversity seen in this group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Steele
- Department of Biological Chemistry and the Developmental Biology Center, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yuan JY, Liu LY, Wang P, Li ZF, Ni L, Wang A, Xiao SX, Song TS, Huang C. Small-interfering RNA-mediated silencing of the MAPK p42 gene induces dual effects in HeLa cells. Oncol Lett 2010; 1:649-655. [PMID: 22966358 DOI: 10.3892/ol_00000114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2009] [Accepted: 05/06/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The genesis and progression of cervical cancer involve the mutation or deviant expression of numerous genes, including the activation of oncogenes (Ha-ras, C-myc, C-erbB2 and Bcl-2) and inactivation of tumor-suppressor genes (p53 and Rb). Previous studies showed that small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the MAPK p42 gene partly inhibit proliferation and increase apoptosis in human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells. Results of a microarray analysis showed that MAPK p42 siRNA inhibited cell growth through the regulation of cell cycle control and apoptosis and induced interferon-like response in HeLa cells. In order to confirm the dual effects of MAPK p42 siRNA, we compared the roles of siRNA and U0126, an inhibitor of MAPK p42, in HeLa cells. Short 21-mer double-stranded/siRNAs were synthesized to target MAPK p42 mRNA in HeLa cells. The siRNAs were transfected into HeLa cells using Lipofectamine. The cells were treated with siRNA or U0126 at different concentrations for a period of 48 h. The biological effect of siRNA and U0126 on HeLa cells was measured by MTT and flow cytometry. MAPK1, NUP188, P38, STAT1, STAT2, PML and OAS1 were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR. HeLa cell growth was inhibited by siRNA or U0126, and the effect of siRNA inhibition was greater than that of U0126. Cell cycle phases were different for siRNA or U0126, but HeLa cell growth was arrested at the S phase by siRNA and at G1 phase by U0126. A down-regulation in MAPK p42 expression by siRNA and up-regulation by U0126 were noted. The results of real-time quantitative PCR showed that P38 was up-regulated and NUP188 was down-regulated by siRNA in comparison with the control groups, and the results were consistent with those of U0126. Expression levels of STAT1, STAT2, PML and OAS1 induced by siRNA differed from those induced by U0126. siRNA-mediated silencing and deactivation induced by U0126 in MAPK p42 led to growth inhibition in the HeLa cells. The effects of siRNA on HeLa cell growth were different from those of U0126. Dual effects of MAPK p42 siRNA-2 on HeLa cell growth were noted: one consisted of a specific effect induced by siRNA-mediated p42 MAPK silencing and the other exhibited a non-specific interferon-like response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yi Yuan
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University/Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Ministry of Education, Shaanxi 710061
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pavli OI, Panopoulos NJ, Goldbach R, Skaracis GN. BNYVV-derived dsRNA confers resistance to rhizomania disease of sugar beet as evidenced by a novel transgenic hairy root approach. Transgenic Res 2010; 19:915-22. [PMID: 20127510 PMCID: PMC2935974 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-010-9364-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Agrobacterium rhizogenes-transformed sugar beet hairy roots, expressing dsRNA from the Beet necrotic yellow vein virus replicase gene, were used as a novel approach to assess the efficacy of three intron-hairpin constructs at conferring resistance to rhizomania disease. Genetically engineered roots were similar in morphology to wild type roots but were characterized by a profound abundancy, rapid growth rate and, in some cases, plagiotropic development. Upon challenge inoculation, seedlings showed a considerable delay in symptom development compared to untransformed or vector-transformed seedlings, expressing dsRNA from an unrelated source. The transgenic root system of almost all seedlings contained no or very low virus titer while the non-transformed aerial parts of the same plants were found infected, leading to the conclusion that the hairy roots studied were effectively protected against the virus. This readily applicable novel method forms a plausible approach to preliminarily evaluate transgenic rhizomania resistance before proceeding in transformation and whole plant regeneration of sugar beet, a tedious and time consuming process for such a recalcitrant crop species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ourania I Pavli
- Department of Plant Sciences, Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Formation of small interfering RNA (siRNA) occurs in two steps involving binding of the RNA nucleases to a large double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) and its cleavage into fragments called siRNA. In the second step, these siRNAs join a multinuclease complex, which degrades the homologous single‐stranded mRNAs. The delivery of siRNA involves viral‐ and non‐viral‐mediated delivery systems; the approaches for chemical modifications have also been developed. It has various therapeutic applications for disorders like cardiovascular diseases, central nervous system (CNS) disorders, cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatic disorders, etc. The present review gives an overview of the applications of siRNA and their potential for treating many hitherto untreatable diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bhoomika R Goyal
- Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University of Science and Technology, Ahmedabad 382 481, Gujarat, India.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Khalturin K, Hemmrich G, Fraune S, Augustin R, Bosch TCG. More than just orphans: are taxonomically-restricted genes important in evolution? Trends Genet 2009; 25:404-13. [PMID: 19716618 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2009.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 300] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2009] [Revised: 07/13/2009] [Accepted: 07/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Comparative genome analyses indicate that every taxonomic group so far studied contains 10-20% of genes that lack recognizable homologs in other species. Do such 'orphan' or 'taxonomically-restricted' genes comprise spurious, non-functional ORFs, or does their presence reflect important evolutionary processes? Recent studies in basal metazoans such as Nematostella, Acropora and Hydra have shed light on the function of these genes, and now indicate that they are involved in important species-specific adaptive processes. Here we focus on evidence from Hydra suggesting that taxonomically-restricted genes play a role in the creation of phylum-specific novelties such as cnidocytes, in the generation of morphological diversity, and in the innate defence system. We propose that taxon-specific genes drive morphological specification, enabling organisms to adapt to changing conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Khalturin
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Olshausenstrasse 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Augustin R, Siebert S, Bosch TCG. Identification of a kazal-type serine protease inhibitor with potent anti-staphylococcal activity as part of Hydra's innate immune system. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 33:830-837. [PMID: 19428484 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2009.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2008] [Revised: 01/29/2009] [Accepted: 01/30/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In the absence of migratory phagocytic cells the basal metazoan Hydra has developed a very effective immune system. Previous work has shown that epithelial cells, both in the ectoderm and endoderm, recognize PAMPs by TLR and produce a number of antimicrobial peptides. In this study we demonstrate that not only epithelial cells but also gland cells are critically involved in Hydra's innate host defense by producing a kazal-type serine protease inhibitor, kazal2, that has potent in vitro bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The discovery of an antimicrobial serine protease inhibitor in Hydra may shed new light on the mechanisms of host defense early in metazoan evolution, and promises to open new avenues for the development of potent anti-staphylococcal compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- René Augustin
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Kiel, Germany.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bosch TCG, Augustin R, Anton-Erxleben F, Fraune S, Hemmrich G, Zill H, Rosenstiel P, Jacobs G, Schreiber S, Leippe M, Stanisak M, Grötzinger J, Jung S, Podschun R, Bartels J, Harder J, Schröder JM. Uncovering the evolutionary history of innate immunity: the simple metazoan Hydra uses epithelial cells for host defence. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 33:559-569. [PMID: 19013190 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2008.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2008] [Revised: 10/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/13/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Although many properties of the innate immune system are shared among multicellular animals, the evolutionary origin remains poorly understood. Here we characterize the innate immune system in Hydra, one of the simplest multicellular animals known. In the complete absence of both protective mechanical barriers and mobile phagocytes, Hydra's epithelium is remarkably well equipped with potent antimicrobial peptides to prevent pathogen infection. Induction of antimicrobial peptide production is mediated by the interaction of a leucine-rich repeats (LRRs) domain containing protein with a TIR-domain containing protein lacking LRRs. Conventional Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are absent in the Hydra genome. Our findings support the hypothesis that the epithelium represents the ancient system of host defence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C G Bosch
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
New treatments for ocular hypertension. Auton Neurosci 2009; 147:14-9. [PMID: 19176290 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2008.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2008] [Revised: 12/18/2008] [Accepted: 12/22/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative pathology that affects the optic nerve producing blindness. This disease is often a consequence of an abnormal increase of intraocular pressure (IOP) due to a reduction in the ability of the eye to drain a transparent fluid termed aqueous humour. The dynamics of the aqueous humour is highly controlled by the autonomic nervous system, mainly the sympathetic, regulating its production and parasympathetic controlling the evacuation of aqueous humour. This has led pharmaceutical companies to develop chemicals which, by acting via different targets can substantially reduce IOP. Parasympathomimetics, adrenergic antagonists, plus eventually adrenergic agonists, are commonly used for the reduction of IOP and therefore for treatment of glaucoma. New substances linked to the nervous system that innervates the eye are emerging as interesting candidates. Nucleotides, commonly costored with catecholamines or acetylcholine or the indole melatonin, present interesting properties reducing IOP. Moreover new technological ideas such as the use of siRNA (small interference RNA) to silence protein expression demonstrate the relevance of this method to approach ocular hypertension and glaucoma from a different point of view. These three main groups of molecules: nucleotides, melatonins and siRNAs, are reviewed since they appear as firm candidates for the treatment of glaucoma in the near future.
Collapse
|
40
|
Khalturin K, Anton-Erxleben F, Sassmann S, Wittlieb J, Hemmrich G, Bosch TCG. A novel gene family controls species-specific morphological traits in Hydra. PLoS Biol 2008; 6:e278. [PMID: 19018660 PMCID: PMC2586386 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.0060278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2007] [Accepted: 10/02/2008] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the molecular events that underlie the evolution of morphological diversity is a major challenge in biology. Here, to identify genes whose expression correlates with species-specific morphologies, we compared transcriptomes of two closely related Hydra species. We find that species-specific differences in tentacle formation correlate with expression of a taxonomically restricted gene encoding a small secreted protein. We show that gain of function induces changes in morphology that mirror the phenotypic differences observed between species. These results suggest that "novel" genes may be involved in the generation of species-specific morphological traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Khalturin
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University, Am Botanishen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Sylvia Sassmann
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University, Am Botanishen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Jörg Wittlieb
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University, Am Botanishen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Georg Hemmrich
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University, Am Botanishen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas C. G Bosch
- Zoological Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University, Am Botanishen Garten 1-9, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Shannon AJ, Tyson T, Dix I, Boyd J, Burnell AM. Systemic RNAi mediated gene silencing in the anhydrobiotic nematode Panagrolaimus superbus. BMC Mol Biol 2008; 9:58. [PMID: 18565215 PMCID: PMC2453295 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2199-9-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2008] [Accepted: 06/19/2008] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene silencing by RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool for functional genomics. Although RNAi was first described in Caenorhabditis elegans, several nematode species are unable to mount an RNAi response when exposed to exogenous double stranded RNA (dsRNA). These include the satellite model organisms Pristionchus pacificus and Oscheius tipulae. Available data also suggest that the RNAi pathway targeting exogenous dsRNA may not be fully functional in some animal parasitic nematodes. The genus Panagrolaimus contains bacterial feeding nematodes which occupy a diversity of niches ranging from polar, temperate and semi-arid soils to terrestrial mosses. Thus many Panagrolaimus species are adapted to tolerate freezing and desiccation and are excellent systems to study the molecular basis of environmental stress tolerance. We investigated whether Panagrolaimus is susceptible to RNAi to determine whether this nematode could be used in large scale RNAi studies in functional genomics. RESULTS We studied two species: Panagrolaimus sp. PS1159 and Panagrolaimus superbus. Both nematode species displayed embryonic lethal RNAi phenotypes following ingestion of Escherichia coli expressing dsRNA for the C. elegans embryonic lethal genes Ce-lmn-1 and Ce-ran-4. Embryonic lethal RNAi phenotypes were also obtained in both species upon ingestion of dsRNA for the Panagrolaimus genes ef1b and rps-2. Single nematode RT-PCR showed that a significant reduction in mRNA transcript levels occurred for the target ef1b and rps-2 genes in RNAi treated Panagrolaimus sp. 1159 nematodes. Visible RNAi phenotypes were also observed when P. superbus was exposed to dsRNA for structural genes encoding contractile proteins. All RNAi phenotypes were highly penetrant, particularly in P. superbus. CONCLUSION This demonstration that Panagrolaimus is amenable to RNAi by feeding will allow the development of high throughput methods of RNAi screening for P. superbus. This greatly enhances the utility of this nematode as a model system for the study of the molecular biology of anhydrobiosis and cryobiosis and as a possible satellite model nematode for comparative and functional genomics. Our data also identify another nematode infraorder which is amenable to RNAi and provide additional information on the diversity of RNAi phenotypes in nematodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Shannon
- Biology Department, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Trevor Tyson
- Biology Department, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Ilona Dix
- Biology Department, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Jacqueline Boyd
- Biology Department, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham Rd., Southwell, NG25 0QF, UK
| | - Ann M Burnell
- Biology Department, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
The remarkable gene knockdown technique of RNAi has opened exciting new avenues for genetic screens in model organisms and human cells. Here we describe the current state of the art for RNAi screening, and stress the importance of well-designed assays and of analytical approaches for large-scale screening experiments, from high-throughput screens using simplified homogenous assays to microscopy and whole-animal experiments. Like classical genetic screens in the past, the success of large-scale RNAi surveys depends on a careful development of phenotypic assays and their interpretation in a relevant biological context.
Collapse
|
43
|
Altincicek B, Vilcinskas A. Comparative analysis of septic injury-inducible genes in phylogenetically distant model organisms of regeneration and stem cell research, the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea and the cnidarian Hydra vulgaris. Front Zool 2008; 5:6. [PMID: 18439314 PMCID: PMC2386466 DOI: 10.1186/1742-9994-5-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2008] [Accepted: 04/27/2008] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The planarian Schmidtea mediterranea and the cnidarian Hydra vulgaris have emerged as valuable model organisms in regeneration and stem cell research because of their prominent ability to regenerate a complete organism from any small body fragment. Under natural conditions wounding may result from predator attacks. These injuries open their innermost to a wide array of microbes present in the environment. Therefore, we established the hypothesis that regeneration processes may be linked to or at least accompanied by innate immune responses. In order to screen for septic wounding inducible genes we dissected individuals using a scalpel in the presence of a crude bacterial lipopolysaccharide preparation that is commonly used to elicit innate immune responses in animals and applied the suppression subtractive hybridization technique that selectively amplifies cDNAs of differentially expressed genes. RESULTS This analysis revealed the induced expression of 27 genes in immune challenged Schmidtea and 35 genes in immune challenged Hydra. Identified genes from both animals encode proteins that share sequence similarities with potential homologues from other organisms known to be involved in signaling (e.g. calreticulin in Schmidtea and major vault protein in Hydra), stress responses (e.g. Hsp20 in Schmidtea and a PRP19/PSO4 DNA repair protein in Hydra), or to represent potential antimicrobial effectors (e.g. perforin-like protein in Schmidtea and PR-1-like protein and neutrophil cytosolic factor 1 in Hydra). As expected, septic wounding also induces expression of genes in Schmidtea and Hydra potentially involved in tissue remodeling associated with regeneration processes (e.g. matrix metalloproteinase in Schmidtea and a potential von Willebrand factor in Hydra). CONCLUSION We identified numerous immune-inducible genes in Hydra and Schmidtea that show a similar distribution corresponding to their physiological roles, although lineages of both animals split from their common ancestor for more than five hundred millions of years. The present study is the first analysis of immune-inducible genes of these two phylogenetically distant model organisms of regeneration and provide numerous candidate genes that we can use as a starting point for comparative examination of interrelationships between immunity and homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boran Altincicek
- Interdisciplinary Research Center, Institute of Phytopathology and Applied Zoology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, D-35392 Giessen, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
A new era in genetics started 17 years ago, when co-suppression in petunia was discovered. Later, co-suppression was identified as RNA interference (RNAi) in many plant and lower eukaryote animals. Although an ancient antiviral host defense mechanism in plants, the physiologic role of RNAi in mammals is still not completely understood. RNAi is directed by short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), one subtype of short double stranded RNAs. In this review we summarize the history and mechanisms of RNAi. We also aim to highlight the correlation between structure and efficacy of siRNAs. Delivery is the most important obstacle for siRNA based gene therapy. Viral and nonviral deliveries are discussed. In vivo delivery is the next obstacle to clinical trials with siRNAs. Although hydrodynamic treatment is effective in animals, it cannot be used in human therapy. One possibility is organ selective catheterization. The known side effects of synthesized siRNAs are also discussed. Although there are many problems to face in this new field of gene therapy, successful in vitro and in vivo experiments raise hope for treating human disease with siRNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsanna Rácz
- Semmelweis Egyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar Kórélettani Intézet, Budapest, Hungary
| | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Jakob W, Schierwater B. Changing hydrozoan bauplans by silencing Hox-like genes. PLoS One 2007; 2:e694. [PMID: 17668071 PMCID: PMC1931613 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0000694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2007] [Accepted: 06/28/2007] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory genes of the Antp class have been a major factor for the invention and radiation of animal bauplans. One of the most diverse animal phyla are the Cnidaria, which are close to the root of metazoan life and which often appear in two distinct generations and a remarkable variety of body forms. Hox-like genes have been known to be involved in axial patterning in the Cnidaria and have been suspected to play roles in the genetic control of many of the observed bauplan changes. Unfortunately RNAi mediated gene silencing studies have not been satisfactory for marine invertebrate organisms thus far. No direct evidence supporting Hox-like gene induced bauplan changes in cnidarians have been documented as of yet. Herein, we report a protocol for RNAi transfection of marine invertebrates and demonstrate that knock downs of Hox-like genes in Cnidaria create substantial bauplan alterations, including the formation of multiple oral poles (“heads”) by Cnox-2 and Cnox-3 inhibition, deformation of the main body axis by Cnox-5 inhibition and duplication of tentacles by Cnox-1 inhibition. All phenotypes observed in the course of the RNAi studies were identical to those obtained by morpholino antisense oligo experiments and are reminiscent of macroevolutionary bauplan changes. The reported protocol will allow routine RNAi studies in marine invertebrates to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Jakob
- Division of Ecology and Evolution, Stiftung Tieraerztliche Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Hemmrich G, Anokhin B, Zacharias H, Bosch TCG. Molecular phylogenetics in Hydra, a classical model in evolutionary developmental biology. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2007; 44:281-90. [PMID: 17174108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2006.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2006] [Revised: 10/13/2006] [Accepted: 10/23/2006] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Among the earliest diverging animal phyla are the Cnidaria. Freshwater polyps of the genus Hydra (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) have long been of general interest because different species of Hydra reveal fundamental principles that underlie development, differentiation, regeneration and also symbiosis. The phylogenetic relationships among the Hydra species most commonly used in current research are not resolved yet. Here we estimate the phylogenetic relations among eight scientifically important members of the genus Hydra with molecular data from two nuclear (18S rDNA, 28S rDNA) and two mitochondrial (16S rRNA, cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI)) genes. The phylogenetic trees obtained by maximum parsimony (MP), maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods were generally compatible with present morphological classification patterns. However, the present analysis also bears on several long-standing questions about Hydra systematics and reveals some characteristics of the phylogenetic relationships of this genus that were unknown so far. It indicates that Hydra viridissima, the only species in Hydra, which contains symbiotic algae, might be considered as the sister group to all other species within this genus. Analyses of both nuclear and mitochondrial sequences support the view that Hydra oligactis and Hydra circumcincta are sisters to all other Hydra species. Unexpectedly, we also find that in contrast to its initial description, the strain used for making transgenic Hydra, Hydra vulgaris (strain AEP) is more closely related to Hydra carnea than to other species of Hydra.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Hemmrich
- Zoological Institute, Christian Albrechts University, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Abstract
The wasp Nasonia vitripennis is emerging as a useful model organism in which to address a variety of biological questions, due, in part, to its ease of laboratory use, unique aspects of its biology and the sequencing of its genome. In order to take full advantage of the potential of this organism, methods for manipulating gene function are needed. To this end, a protocol for parental RNA interference (pRNAi) in N. vitripennis is described. pRNAi entails injecting pupae with double-stranded RNA, allowing the injected wasps to eclose and examining the progeny for developmental defects. This basic protocol is described in the context of the life cycle of N. vitripennis. This technique has been useful in elucidating the function of most, although not all, genes tested to date, and has potential applications beyond embryonic patterning. pRNAi experiments in Nasonia can be completed in as little as 2 weeks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy A Lynch
- Department of Biology, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, New York 10003, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Dunn SR, Phillips WS, Green DR, Weis VM. Knockdown of actin and caspase gene expression by RNA interference in the symbiotic anemone Aiptasia pallida. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2007; 212:250-8. [PMID: 17565114 DOI: 10.2307/25066607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of the ancient eukaryotic process of RNA-mediated gene silencing, the reverse-genetics technique RNA interference (RNAi) has increasingly been used to examine gene function in vertebrate and invertebrate systems. In this study, we report on the use of RNAi, adapted from studies on animal model systems, to manipulate gene expression in a symbiotic marine cnidarian. We describe gene knockdown of actin and of acasp--a cysteine protease, or caspase--in the symbiotic sea anemone Aiptasia pallida. Knockdown was assessed qualitatively with in situ hybridizations for both genes. Quantitative PCR and caspase activity assays were used as a quantitative measure of knockdown for acasp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon R Dunn
- Department of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Zhang J, Fang GE, Wang JF. Progress of RNA interference in the therapy of gastric cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2007; 15:1252-1256. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v15.i11.1252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a new gene-silencing technique, which is a post-transcriptional gene silencing mediated by double-stranded RNA, resulting in the sequence-specific silence of target gene. RNAi technique has been applied widely in the research of various tumors, and most of the results have shown that it could specifically inhibited the expression of oncogenes, cancer-related genes and mutant genes, so as to suppress the occurrence and development of tumors. Meanwhile, explorations have also been performed on the therapy of gastric cancer, and some significant advances have been obtained. RNAi technique can not only act on the target genes directly, but also treat gastric cancer indirectly by restraining the angiogenesis. Furthermore, RNAi technique can be used to resist the multi-drug resistance during chemotherapy.
Collapse
|
50
|
Ohashi H, Umeda N, Hirazawa N, Ozaki Y, Miura C, Miura T. Expression of vasa (vas)-related genes in germ cells and specific interference with gene functions by double-stranded RNA in the monogenean, Neobenedenia girellae. Int J Parasitol 2007; 37:515-23. [PMID: 17188275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2006.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2006] [Revised: 10/16/2006] [Accepted: 11/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Neobenedenia girellae, a monogenean, is an important pathogen in marine cultured fish such as yellowtail and amberjack. An effective control method is required but none has yet been established. Aiming to establish a new control method by interfering with the gametogenesis of N. girellae, we focused on vasa (vas)-related genes that are expressed exclusively in the germline granules in Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans and other animals. Three vas-related genes (N. girellae vasa-like gene, Ngvlg1, Ngvlg2 and Ngvlg3) were isolated by PCR and Ngvlg1 and Ngvlg2 were shown to be expressed only in germ cells. We demonstrated that introduction of double-stranded Ngvlg1 or Ngvlg2 RNA by soaking resulted in partial or complete loss of germ cells. Moreover, the hatching rate of eggs from animals showing partial loss of germ cells decreased significantly. These results suggest that Ngvlg1 and Ngvlg2 are essential genes for germ cell quantity and quality. The possibility that a new control method can be developed by controlling gametogenesis of N. girellae was proven, because sterilised N. girellae could be produced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ohashi
- Laboratory of Fish Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University, 3-5-7 Tarumi, Matsuyama 790-8566, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|