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Tindula G, Issac B, Mukherjee SK, Ekramullah SM, Arman DM, Islam J, Suchanda HS, Sun L, Rockowitz S, Christiani DC, Warf BC, Mazumdar M. Genome-wide analysis of spina bifida risk variants in a case-control study from Bangladesh. Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2331. [PMID: 38526198 PMCID: PMC10963057 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human studies of genetic risk factors for neural tube defects, severe birth defects associated with long-term health consequences in surviving children, have predominantly been restricted to a subset of candidate genes in specific biological pathways including folate metabolism. METHODS In this study, we investigated the association of genetic variants spanning the genome with risk of spina bifida (i.e., myelomeningocele and meningocele) in a subset of families enrolled from December 2016 through December 2022 in a case-control study in Bangladesh, a population often underrepresented in genetic studies. Saliva DNA samples were analyzed using the Illumina Global Screening Array. We performed genetic association analyses to compare allele frequencies between 112 case and 121 control children, 272 mothers, and 128 trios. RESULTS In the transmission disequilibrium test analyses with trios only, we identified three novel exonic spina bifida risk loci, including rs140199800 (SULT1C2, p = 1.9 × 10-7), rs45580033 (ASB2, p = 4.2 × 10-10), and rs75426652 (LHPP, p = 7.2 × 10-14), after adjusting for multiple hypothesis testing. Association analyses comparing cases and controls, as well as models that included their mothers, did not identify genome-wide significant variants. CONCLUSIONS This study identified three novel single nucleotide polymorphisms involved in biological pathways not previously associated with neural tube defects. The study warrants replication in larger groups to validate findings and to inform targeted prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwen Tindula
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Biju Issac
- Research Computing, Information Technology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Sudipta Kumer Mukherjee
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS), Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
| | - Sheikh Muhammad Ekramullah
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS), Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
| | - DM Arman
- Department of Paediatric Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS), Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
| | - Joynul Islam
- Department of Clinical Neurosurgery, National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS), Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
| | - Hafiza Sultana Suchanda
- Pediatric Neurosurgery Research Committee, National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital (NINS), Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh
| | - Liang Sun
- Research Computing, Information Technology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Shira Rockowitz
- Research Computing, Information Technology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Benjamin C. Warf
- Department of Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Maitreyi Mazumdar
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
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Szoszkiewicz A, Bukowska-Olech E, Jamsheer A. Molecular landscape of congenital vertebral malformations: recent discoveries and future directions. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2024; 19:32. [PMID: 38291488 PMCID: PMC10829358 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-024-03040-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Vertebral malformations (VMs) pose a significant global health problem, causing chronic pain and disability. Vertebral defects occur as isolated conditions or within the spectrum of various congenital disorders, such as Klippel-Feil syndrome, congenital scoliosis, spondylocostal dysostosis, sacral agenesis, and neural tube defects. Although both genetic abnormalities and environmental factors can contribute to abnormal vertebral development, our knowledge on molecular mechanisms of numerous VMs is still limited. Furthermore, there is a lack of resource that consolidates the current knowledge in this field. In this pioneering review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the latest research on the molecular basis of VMs and the association of the VMs-related causative genes with bone developmental signaling pathways. Our study identifies 118 genes linked to VMs, with 98 genes involved in biological pathways crucial for the formation of the vertebral column. Overall, the review summarizes the current knowledge on VM genetics, and provides new insights into potential involvement of biological pathways in VM pathogenesis. We also present an overview of available data regarding the role of epigenetic and environmental factors in VMs. We identify areas where knowledge is lacking, such as precise molecular mechanisms in which specific genes contribute to the development of VMs. Finally, we propose future research avenues that could address knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szoszkiewicz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 8, 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Ewelina Bukowska-Olech
- Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 8, 60-806, Poznan, Poland
| | - Aleksander Jamsheer
- Department of Medical Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 8, 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
- Centers for Medical Genetics GENESIS, Dąbrowskiego 77A, 60-529, Poznan, Poland.
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3
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Kim SE, Kim HY, Wlodarczyk BJ, Finnell RH. The novel linkage between Fuz and Gpr161 genes regulates sonic hedgehog signaling during mouse embryonic development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.11.575263. [PMID: 38260275 PMCID: PMC10802560 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.11.575263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling regulates embryonic morphogenesis utilizing primary cilia, the cell antenna acting as a signaling hub. Fuz, an effector of planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling, involves Shh signaling via cilia formation, while the G protein-coupled receptor 161 (Gpr161) is a negative regulator of Shh signaling. The range of phenotypic malformations observed in mice bearing mutations in either of these two genes is similar; however, their functional relations have not been previously explored. This study identified the genetic and biochemical link between Fuz and Gpr161 in mouse embryonic development. Fuz was genetically epistatic to Gpr161 via Shh signaling during mouse embryonic development. The FUZ biochemically interacted with GPR161, and Fuz regulated Gpr161 ciliary trafficking via β-arrestin2. Our study suggested the novel Gpr161-Fuz axis that regulates Shh signaling during mouse embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Eun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin/Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, 78723, USA
| | | | - Bogdan J. Wlodarczyk
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Molecular and Human Genetics, and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Richard H. Finnell
- Department of Pediatrics, Dell Pediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin/Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, 78723, USA
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Molecular and Human Genetics, and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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4
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Abstract
A genetic change could explain increased cortical neurogenesis in modern humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Malgrange
- GIGA-Stem Cells and GIGA-Neurosciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R), University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Laurent Nguyen
- GIGA-Stem Cells and GIGA-Neurosciences, Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA-R), University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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5
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Spina Bifida: A Review of the Genetics, Pathophysiology and Emerging Cellular Therapies. J Dev Biol 2022; 10:jdb10020022. [PMID: 35735913 PMCID: PMC9224552 DOI: 10.3390/jdb10020022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spina bifida is the most common congenital defect of the central nervous system which can portend lifelong disability to those afflicted. While the complete underpinnings of this disease are yet to be fully understood, there have been great advances in the genetic and molecular underpinnings of this disease. Moreover, the treatment for spina bifida has made great advancements, from surgical closure of the defect after birth to the now state-of-the-art intrauterine repair. This review will touch upon the genetics, embryology, and pathophysiology and conclude with a discussion on current therapy, as well as the first FDA-approved clinical trial utilizing stem cells as treatment for spina bifida.
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Huang W, Gu H, Yuan Z. Identifying biomarkers for prenatal diagnosis of neural tube defects based on "omics". Clin Genet 2021; 101:381-389. [PMID: 34761376 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the most severe birth defects and the main cause of newborn death; posing a great challenge to the affected children, families, and societies. Presently, the clinical diagnosis of NTDs mainly relies on ultrasound images combined with certain indices, such as alpha-fetoprotein levels in the maternal serum and amniotic fluid. Recently, the discovery of additional biomarkers in maternal tissue has presented new possibilities for prenatal diagnosis. Over the past 20 years, "omics" techniques have provided the premise for the study of biomarkers. This review summarizes recent advances in candidate biomarkers for the prenatal diagnosis of fetal NTDs based on omics techniques using maternal biological specimens of different origins, including amniotic fluid, blood, and urine, which may provide a foundation for the early prenatal diagnosis of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanqi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hui Gu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhengwei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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7
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[Prenatal ultrasound prognostic of myelomeningocele at the era of fetal surgery]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 49:617-629. [PMID: 34020095 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Myelomeningocele (MMC) is a severe congenital condition responsible for motor and sensory impairments of the lower limbs, incontinence and cognitive impairment. Its screening, sometimes as early as the first trimester, is one of the major goals of modern prenatal care, supported by the emergence of prenatal surgery that results in a significant improvement in motor function, ambulation and ventriculoperitoneal shunt rate in patients undergoing in-utero surgery. From screening to pre- and post-operative prognostic evaluation, prenatal ultrasound is now an essential tool in the antenatal management of this condition. Using the multi planar and three-dimensional modes, it can be used to assess the vertebral level of MMC, which remains the key antenatal prognostic marker for motor function and ambulation, incontinence and the need for a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. A careful and systematic ultrasound examination also makes it possible to assess the severity and progression of ventriculomegaly, to search for associated cerebral, spinal cord or vertebral anomalies, or to rule out exclusion criteria for in-utero surgery such as severe kyphosis or serious cortical anomalies. New tools from post-natal evaluation, such as the "metameric" ultrasound assessment of lower limb mobility, appear to be promising either for the initial examination or after in-utero surgery. Ultrasonography, associated with fetal MRI, cytogenetic and next generation sequencing, now allows a highly customized prognostic evaluation of these fetuses affected by MMC and provides the parents with the best possible information on the expected benefits and limitations of fetal surgery.
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Nano PR, Johnson TK, Kudo T, Mooney NA, Ni J, Demeter J, Jackson PK, Chen JK. Structure-activity mapping of ARHGAP36 reveals regulatory roles for its GAP homology and C-terminal domains. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251684. [PMID: 33999959 PMCID: PMC8128262 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
ARHGAP36 is an atypical Rho GTPase-activating protein (GAP) family member that drives both spinal cord development and tumorigenesis, acting in part through an N-terminal motif that suppresses protein kinase A and activates Gli transcription factors. ARHGAP36 also contains isoform-specific N-terminal sequences, a central GAP-like module, and a unique C-terminal domain, and the functions of these regions remain unknown. Here we have mapped the ARHGAP36 structure-activity landscape using a deep sequencing-based mutagenesis screen and truncation mutant analyses. Using this approach, we have discovered several residues in the GAP homology domain that are essential for Gli activation and a role for the C-terminal domain in counteracting an N-terminal autoinhibitory motif that is present in certain ARHGAP36 isoforms. In addition, each of these sites modulates ARHGAP36 recruitment to the plasma membrane or primary cilium. Through comparative proteomics, we also have identified proteins that preferentially interact with active ARHGAP36, and we demonstrate that one binding partner, prolyl oligopeptidase-like protein, is a novel ARHGAP36 antagonist. Our work reveals multiple modes of ARHGAP36 regulation and establishes an experimental framework that can be applied towards other signaling proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia R. Nano
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Taylor K. Johnson
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Takamasa Kudo
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Nancie A. Mooney
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Jun Ni
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Janos Demeter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Peter K. Jackson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - James K. Chen
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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