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Rajawat D, Panigrahi M, Nayak SS, Bhushan B, Mishra BP, Dutt T. Dissecting the genomic regions of selection on the X chromosome in different cattle breeds. 3 Biotech 2024; 14:50. [PMID: 38268984 PMCID: PMC10803714 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-023-03905-4] [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: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian X and Y chromosomes independently evolved from various autosomes approximately 300 million years ago (MYA). To fully understand the relationship between genomic composition and phenotypic diversity arising due to the course of evolution, we have scanned regions of selection signatures on the X chromosome in different cattle breeds. In this study, we have prepared the datasets of 184 individuals of different cattle breeds and explored the complete X chromosome by utilizing four within-population and two between-population methods. There were 23, 25, 30, 17, 17, and 12 outlier regions identified in Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, ROH, FST, and XP-EHH. Bioinformatics analysis showed that these regions harbor important candidate genes like AKAP4 for reproduction in Brown Swiss, MBTS2 for production traits in Brown Swiss and Guernsey, CXCR3 and CITED1 for health traits in Jersey and Nelore, and BMX and CD40LG for regulation of X chromosome inactivation in Nelore and Gir. We identified genes shared among multiple methods, such as TRNAC-GCA and IL1RAPL1, which appeared in Tajima's D, ROH, and iHS analyses. The gene TRNAW-CCA was found in ROH, CLR and iHS analyses. The X chromosome exhibits a distinctive interaction between demographic factors and genetic variations, and these findings may provide new insight into the X-linked selection in different cattle breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Rajawat
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP 243122 India
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP 243122 India
| | - Sonali Sonejita Nayak
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP 243122 India
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP 243122 India
| | - B. P. Mishra
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal, Karnal, India
| | - Triveni Dutt
- Livestock Production and Management Section, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, UP 243122 India
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2
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Bhattacharya S, Sadhukhan D, Saraswathy R. Role of sex in immune response and epigenetic mechanisms. Epigenetics Chromatin 2024; 17:1. [PMID: 38247002 PMCID: PMC10802034 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-024-00525-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The functioning of the human immune system is highly dependent on the sex of the individual, which comes by virtue of sex chromosomes and hormonal differences. Epigenetic mechanisms such as X chromosome inactivation, mosaicism, skewing, and dimorphism in X chromosome genes and Y chromosome regulatory genes create a sex-based variance in the immune response between males and females. This leads to differential susceptibility in immune-related disorders like infections, autoimmunity, and malignancies. Various naturally available immunomodulators are also available which target immune pathways containing X chromosome genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sombodhi Bhattacharya
- Biomedical Genetics Research Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Debasmita Sadhukhan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India
| | - Radha Saraswathy
- Biomedical Genetics Research Lab, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, India.
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3
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Nytrova P, Dolezal O. Sex bias in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: How it influences clinical course, MRI parameters and prognosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:933415. [PMID: 36016923 PMCID: PMC9396644 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.933415] [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: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This review is a condensed summary of representative articles addressing the sex/gender bias in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). The strong effects of sex on the incidence and possibly also the activity and progression of these disorders should be implemented in the evaluation of any phase of clinical research and also in treatment choice consideration in clinical practice and evaluation of MRI parameters. Some relationships between clinical variables and gender still remain elusive but with further understanding of sex/gender-related differences, we should be able to provide appropriate patient-centered care and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Nytrova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and General University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Petra Nytrova,
| | - Ondrej Dolezal
- Department of Neurology, Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary, NHS Scotland, Dumfries, United Kingdom
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4
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Keur N, Ricaño-Ponce I, Kumar V, Matzaraki V. A systematic review of analytical methods used in genetic association analysis of the X-chromosome. Brief Bioinform 2022; 23:6651325. [PMID: 35901513 DOI: 10.1093/bib/bbac287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic association studies have been very successful at elucidating the genetic background of many complex diseases/traits. However, the X-chromosome is often neglected in these studies because of technical difficulties and the fact that most tools only utilize genetic data from autosomes. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of different practical approaches that are followed to incorporate the X-chromosome in association analysis, such as Genome-Wide Association Studies and Expression Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis. In general, the choice of which test statistics is most appropriate will depend on three main criteria: (1) the underlying X-inactivation model, (2) if Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium holds and sex-specific allele frequencies are expected and (3) whether adjustment for confounding variables is required. All in all, it is recommended that a combination of different association tests should be used for the analysis of X-chromosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Keur
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 HP, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Isis Ricaño-Ponce
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 HP, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 HP, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Genetics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Vasiliki Matzaraki
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 HP, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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5
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Eissman JM, Dumitrescu L, Mahoney ER, Smith AN, Mukherjee S, Lee ML, Scollard P, Choi SE, Bush WS, Engelman CD, Lu Q, Fardo DW, Trittschuh EH, Mez J, Kaczorowski CC, Hernandez Saucedo H, Widaman KF, Buckley RF, Properzi MJ, Mormino EC, Yang HS, Harrison TM, Hedden T, Nho K, Andrews SJ, Tommet D, Hadad N, Sanders RE, Ruderfer DM, Gifford KA, Zhong X, Raghavan NS, Vardarajan BN, Pericak-Vance MA, Farrer LA, Wang LS, Cruchaga C, Schellenberg GD, Cox NJ, Haines JL, Keene CD, Saykin AJ, Larson EB, Sperling RA, Mayeux R, Cuccaro ML, Bennett DA, Schneider JA, Crane PK, Jefferson AL, Hohman TJ. Sex differences in the genetic architecture of cognitive resilience to Alzheimer's disease. Brain 2022; 145:2541-2554. [PMID: 35552371 PMCID: PMC9337804 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awac177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 30% of elderly adults are cognitively unimpaired at time of death despite the presence of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology at autopsy. Studying individuals who are resilient to the cognitive consequences of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology may uncover novel therapeutic targets to treat Alzheimer's disease. It is well established that there are sex differences in response to Alzheimer's disease pathology, and growing evidence suggests that genetic factors may contribute to these differences. Taken together, we sought to elucidate sex-specific genetic drivers of resilience. We extended our recent large scale genomic analysis of resilience in which we harmonized cognitive data across four cohorts of cognitive ageing, in vivo amyloid PET across two cohorts, and autopsy measures of amyloid neuritic plaque burden across two cohorts. These data were leveraged to build robust, continuous resilience phenotypes. With these phenotypes, we performed sex-stratified [n (males) = 2093, n (females) = 2931] and sex-interaction [n (both sexes) = 5024] genome-wide association studies (GWAS), gene and pathway-based tests, and genetic correlation analyses to clarify the variants, genes and molecular pathways that relate to resilience in a sex-specific manner. Estimated among cognitively normal individuals of both sexes, resilience was 20-25% heritable, and when estimated in either sex among cognitively normal individuals, resilience was 15-44% heritable. In our GWAS, we identified a female-specific locus on chromosome 10 [rs827389, β (females) = 0.08, P (females) = 5.76 × 10-09, β (males) = -0.01, P(males) = 0.70, β (interaction) = 0.09, P (interaction) = 1.01 × 10-04] in which the minor allele was associated with higher resilience scores among females. This locus is located within chromatin loops that interact with promoters of genes involved in RNA processing, including GATA3. Finally, our genetic correlation analyses revealed shared genetic architecture between resilience phenotypes and other complex traits, including a female-specific association with frontotemporal dementia and male-specific associations with heart rate variability traits. We also observed opposing associations between sexes for multiple sclerosis, such that more resilient females had a lower genetic susceptibility to multiple sclerosis, and more resilient males had a higher genetic susceptibility to multiple sclerosis. Overall, we identified sex differences in the genetic architecture of resilience, identified a female-specific resilience locus and highlighted numerous sex-specific molecular pathways that may underly resilience to Alzheimer's disease pathology. This study illustrates the need to conduct sex-aware genomic analyses to identify novel targets that are unidentified in sex-agnostic models. Our findings support the theory that the most successful treatment for an individual with Alzheimer's disease may be personalized based on their biological sex and genetic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn M Eissman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Logan Dumitrescu
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Emily R Mahoney
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Alexandra N Smith
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Michael L Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Phoebe Scollard
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Seo Eun Choi
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - William S Bush
- Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology, Department of Population and
Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University,
Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Corinne D Engelman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Public
Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison,
WI, USA
| | - Qiongshi Lu
- Department of Statistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison,
Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of
Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David W Fardo
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of
Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
- Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, University of Kentucky,
Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Emily H Trittschuh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington
School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System, GRECC, Seattle,
WA, USA
| | - Jesse Mez
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of
Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Hector Hernandez Saucedo
- UC Davis Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Department of Neurology,
University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento,
CA, USA
| | | | - Rachel F Buckley
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical
School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Alzheimer's Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology,
Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston,
MA, USA
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of
Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J Properzi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical
School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Mormino
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford
University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hyun Sik Yang
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical
School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Alzheimer's Research and Treatment, Department of Neurology,
Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston,
MA, USA
| | - Theresa M Harrison
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California
Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Trey Hedden
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
City, NY, USA
| | - Kwangsik Nho
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana Alzheimer Disease
Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis,
IN, USA
- Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Indiana University
School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Shea J Andrews
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
City, NY, USA
| | - Douglas Tommet
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Brown University School of
Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | | | - Douglas M Ruderfer
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Katherine A Gifford
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Xiaoyuan Zhong
- Department of Statistics, University of Wisconsin-Madison,
Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of
Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Neha S Raghavan
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New
York, NY, USA
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain,
Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center and
The New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY,
USA
| | - Badri N Vardarajan
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New
York, NY, USA
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain,
Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center and
The New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY,
USA
| | | | | | | | - Margaret A Pericak-Vance
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami School of
Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Lindsay A Farrer
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of
Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public
Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston University School of
Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Li San Wang
- Penn Neurodegeneration Genomics Center, Department of Pathology and
Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of
Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carlos Cruchaga
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of
Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Gerard D Schellenberg
- Penn Neurodegeneration Genomics Center, Department of Pathology and
Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of
Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nancy J Cox
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jonathan L Haines
- Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology, Department of Population and
Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University,
Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - C Dirk Keene
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andrew J Saykin
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of
Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Eric B Larson
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Reisa A Sperling
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical
School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard Mayeux
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New
York, NY, USA
- The Taub Institute for Research on Alzheimer's Disease and The Aging Brain,
Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center and
The New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY,
USA
| | - Michael L Cuccaro
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami School of
Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David A Bennett
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical
Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julie A Schneider
- Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical
Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paul K Crane
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Angela L Jefferson
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Timothy J Hohman
- Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical
Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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The lncRNAs at X Chromosome Inactivation Center: Not Just a Matter of Sex Dosage Compensation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020611. [PMID: 35054794 PMCID: PMC8775829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) constitute the majority of the transcriptome, as the result of pervasive transcription of the mammalian genome. Different RNA species, such as lncRNAs, miRNAs, circRNA, mRNAs, engage in regulatory networks based on their reciprocal interactions, often in a competitive manner, in a way denominated “competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks” (“ceRNET”): miRNAs and other ncRNAs modulate each other, since miRNAs can regulate the expression of lncRNAs, which in turn regulate miRNAs, titrating their availability and thus competing with the binding to other RNA targets. The unbalancing of any network component can derail the entire regulatory circuit acting as a driving force for human diseases, thus assigning “new” functions to “old” molecules. This is the case of XIST, the lncRNA characterized in the early 1990s and well known as the essential molecule for X chromosome inactivation in mammalian females, thus preventing an imbalance of X-linked gene expression between females and males. Currently, literature concerning XIST biology is becoming dominated by miRNA associations and they are also gaining prominence for other lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center. This review discusses the available literature to explore possible novel functions related to ceRNA activity of lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center, beyond their role in dosage compensation, with prospective implications for emerging gender-biased functions and pathological mechanisms.
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Shireman JM, Ammanuel S, Eickhoff JC, Dey M. Sexual dimorphism of the immune system predicts clinical outcomes in glioblastoma immunotherapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurooncol Adv 2022; 4:vdac082. [PMID: 35821678 PMCID: PMC9268746 DOI: 10.1093/noajnl/vdac082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biological differences based on sex have been documented throughout the scientific literature. Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, has a male sex incidence bias, however, no clinical trial data examining differential effects of treatment between sexes currently exists. Method We analyzed genomic data, as well as clinical trials, to delineate the effect of sex on the immune system and GBM outcome following immunotherapy. Results We found that in general females possess enriched immunological signatures on gene set enrichment analysis, which also stratified patient survival when delineated by sex. Female GBM patients treated with immunotherapy had a statistically significant survival advantage at the 1-year compared to males (relative risk [RR] = 1.15; P = .0241). This effect was even more pronounced in vaccine-based immunotherapy (RR = 1.29; P = .0158). Conclusions Our study shows a meaningful difference in the immunobiology between males and females that also influences the overall response to immunotherapy in the setting of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack M Shireman
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Simon Ammanuel
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jens C Eickhoff
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mahua Dey
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Al-Gburi S, Beissert S, Günther C. Molecular mechanisms of vasculopathy and coagulopathy in COVID-19. Biol Chem 2021; 402:1505-1518. [PMID: 34657406 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system and may lead to severe systemic complications, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ failure, cytokine storm, and thromboembolic events. Depending on the immune status of the affected individual early disease control can be reached by a robust type-I-interferon (type-I-IFN) response restricting viral replication. If type-I-IFN upregulation is impaired, patients develop severe COVID-19 that involves profound alveolitis, endothelitis, complement activation, recruitment of immune cells, as well as immunothrombosis. In patients with proper initial disease control there can be a second flare of type-I-IFN release leading to post-COVID manifestation such as chilblain-like lesions that are characterized by thrombosis of small vessels in addition to an inflammatory infiltrate resembling lupus erythematosus (LE). Mechanistically, SARS-CoV-2 invades pneumocytes and endothelial cells by acting on angiotensin-II-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). It is hypothesized, that viral uptake might downregulate ACE2 bioavailability and enhance angiotensin-II-derived pro-inflammatory and pro-thrombotic state. Since ACE2 is encoded on the X chromosome these conditions might also be influenced by gender-specific regulation. Taken together, SARS-CoV-2 infection affects the vascular compartment leading to variable thrombogenic or inflammatory response depending on the individual immune response status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzan Al-Gburi
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, D-01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan Beissert
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, D-01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Claudia Günther
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, D-01307 Dresden, Germany
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9
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Ranjan J, Ravindra A, Mishra B. Gender and genetic factors impacting COVID-19 severity. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:3956-3963. [PMID: 35136752 PMCID: PMC8797126 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_769_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic is a cause of global concern and is impacting lives and economy globally. Infection due to SARS-CoV-2 leads to varied clinical manifestations, which can vary from asymptomatic to severe acute respiratory syndrome and death. The clinical features are proposed to depend upon various host factors, namely, gender and genetic factors. The significantly high mortality among males has revealed the role of gender, androgens, age, genetics, and risk factors in determining the severity of COVID-19 among the population. The interplay of various host factors and their association with clinically severe infections is crucial for our understanding of COVID-19 pathogenesis. A PubMed and Google scholar search was made using keywords such as "COVID-19 + sex differences," "COVID-19 + androgens," "COVID-19 + ACE2 receptor," and "COVID-19 + smoking alcoholism pregnancy." The articles which highlight the association of gender and genetic factors to COVID-19 were selected and included in our study. It is mainly the primary care or family physicians who act as the first contact of COVID-19 patients. With the recent increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections in the Indian subcontinent and probability of upcoming surges, it has become imperative to understand its interaction with the various gender and genetic factors to devise effective triage and management protocols. Our review highlights the possible mechanisms by which these factors impact the severity of COVID-19. A better understanding of these factors will be of immense help to primary care physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Ranjan
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Akshatha Ravindra
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Baijayantimala Mishra
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
- Address for correspondence: Dr. Baijayantimala Mishra, Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar - 751 019, Odisha, India. E-mail:
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10
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Lombardo G, Mondelli V, Dazzan P, Pariante CM. Sex hormones and immune system: A possible interplay in affective disorders? A systematic review. J Affect Disord 2021; 290:1-14. [PMID: 33989924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex hormones and the immune system may play a key role in sex differences in affective disorders. The understanding of their interplay may lead to the detection of new sex-specific tailored therapeutic approaches. The aim of this systematic review is to summarise the evidence supporting a possible association between sex hormones and inflammatory biomarkers in people with affective disorders. METHODS A systematic search of the literature published until January 2021 was conducted on PubMed database. The initial search identified a total of 1259 studies; 20 studies investigating inflammatory biomarkers and sex hormones in patients exhibiting depressive symptoms were included: 10 studies focused on patients with affective disorders, and 10 studies focused on women in menopause or in the post-partum period exhibiting depressive symptoms. RESULTS Testosterone and exogenous female sex hormones may play protective roles through their modulation of the immune system, respectively, in male patients with bipolar disorder and in peri-/post-menopausal women with depression. LIMITATIONS The main limitations are the paucity of studies investigating both sex hormones and immune biomarkers, the lack of statistical analyses exploring specifically the association between these two classes of biomarkers, and the great heterogeneity between the participants' samples in the studies. CONCLUSION This review highlights the need to investigate the interplay between sex hormones and immune system in affective disorders. The inconsistent or incomplete evidence may be improved by studies in patients with moderate-high inflammatory levels that specifically evaluate the relationship between sex hormones and the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Lombardo
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, UK.
| | - Valeria Mondelli
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paola Dazzan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, UK
| | - Carmine Maria Pariante
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Mental Health Biomedical Research Centre, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and King's College London, London, UK
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11
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Di Palo A, Siniscalchi C, Salerno M, Russo A, Gravholt CH, Potenza N. What microRNAs could tell us about the human X chromosome. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:4069-4080. [PMID: 32356180 PMCID: PMC7854456 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03526-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small-non coding RNAs endowed with great regulatory power, thus playing key roles not only in almost all physiological pathways, but also in the pathogenesis of several diseases. Surprisingly, genomic distribution analysis revealed the highest density of miRNA sequences on the X chromosome; this evolutionary conserved mammalian feature equips females with a larger miRNA machinery than males. However, miRNAs contribution to some X-related conditions, properties or functions is still poorly explored. With the aim to support and focus research in the field, this review analyzes the literature and databases about X-linked miRNAs, trying to understand how miRNAs could contribute to emerging gender-biased functions and pathological mechanisms, such as immunity and cancer. A fine map of miRNA sequences on the X chromosome is reported, and their known functions are discussed; in addition, bioinformatics functional analyses of the whole X-linked miRNA targetome (predicted and validated) were performed. The emerging scenario points to different gaps in the knowledge that should be filled with future experimental investigations, also in terms of possible implications and pathological perspectives for X chromosome aneuploidy syndromes, such as Turner and Klinefelter syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Di Palo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Chiara Siniscalchi
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Mariacarolina Salerno
- Pediatric Endocrine Unit, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Aniello Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Claus Højbjerg Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nicoletta Potenza
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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12
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Brooks W. An Epigenetics-Based Hypothesis of Autoantigen Development in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. EPIGENOMES 2020; 4:epigenomes4020006. [PMID: 34968240 PMCID: PMC8594704 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes4020006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, we have a limited understanding of mechanisms leading to systemic lupus erythematosus, but we know that genetics, environmental factors, and epigenetics contribute to the disease. One common aspect of the various environmental triggers is that they can cause cellular stress. When extraordinary stress occurs, such as viral activation, a cell's response can include increased nucleolar volume and activity to produce more machinery (e.g., ribosomes) to help the cell recover. However, nucleolar expansion can disrupt the epigenetic control in neighboring heterochromatin that comprises the nucleolar shell. This disruption can open underlying vulnerabilities that provoke an autoimmune reaction. Here, we review the "X chromosome-nucleolus nexus" hypothesis, which explains how nucleolar stress can disrupt epigenetically silenced chromatin, especially the neighboring inactive X chromosome (aka the nucleolar satellite). Chromatin disruption can lead to the expression of sequestered DNA, such as Alu elements and fully functional LINE-1 reverse transcriptase genes. In addition, Alu transcripts can disrupt the nucleolar structural integrity, leading to nucleolar disintegration. Such disintegration can leave nucleolar components and products in autoantigenic forms, such as abnormal conformations or incomplete macromolecular assemblies. Recent research on DNA sensing pathways can now be incorporated into the hypothesis to provide further details explaining how autoantibodies to endogenous nucleic acids arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Brooks
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
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13
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Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) is a chronic and systemic autoimmune epithelitis with predominant female incidence, which is characterized by exocrine gland dysfunction. Incompletely understood, the etiology of SjS is multi-factorial and evidence is growing to consider that epigenetic factors are playing a crucial role in its development. Independent from DNA sequence mutations, epigenetics is described as inheritable and reversible processes that modify gene expression. Epigenetic modifications reported in minor salivary gland and lymphocytes from SjS patients are related to (i) an abnormal DNA methylation process inducing in turn defective control of normally repressed genes involving such matters as autoantigens, retrotransposons, and the X chromosome in women; (ii) altered nucleosome positioning associated with autoantibody production; and (iii) altered control of microRNA. Results from epigenome-wide association studies have further revealed the importance of the interferon pathway in disease progression, the calcium signaling pathway for controlling fluid secretions, and a cell-specific cross talk with risk factors associated with SjS. Importantly, epigenetic modifications are reversible thus opening opportunities for therapeutic procedures in this currently incurable disease.
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14
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Antonelli A, Ferrari SM, Ragusa F, Elia G, Paparo SR, Ruffilli I, Patrizio A, Giusti C, Gonnella D, Cristaudo A, Foddis R, Shoenfeld Y, Fallahi P. Graves' disease: Epidemiology, genetic and environmental risk factors and viruses. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101387. [PMID: 32107168 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Graves' disease (GD) is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in developed Countries. It is more common between 30 and 60 years; 5-10 times more frequent in women. The genetic predisposition accounts for 79% of the risk for GD, while environmental factors for 21%. About 70% of genes associated with autoimmune thyroid disorders (AITD) are implicated in T-cell function. Among GD endogenous factors, estrogens, X-inactivation and microchimerism are important. Among environmental risk factors, smoking, iodine excess, selenium and vitamin D deficiency, and the occupational exposure to Agent Orange have been associated with GD. Many studies showed that HCV is associated with thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism, in patients with chronic HCV hepatitis (CHC); a significant link has been shown also between HCV-related mixed cryoglobulinemia and risk for GD. Moreover, IFN-α-treated CHC patients develop GD more frequently. Novel studies are needed about possible risk factors to reduce the occurence of GD in West Countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Francesca Ragusa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Giusy Elia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | | | - Ilaria Ruffilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Armando Patrizio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudia Giusti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Debora Gonnella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Alfonso Cristaudo
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Rudy Foddis
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Yehuda Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel; Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Russia.
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research of New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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15
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Parent-of-origin differences in DNA methylation of X chromosome genes in T lymphocytes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:26779-26787. [PMID: 31822606 PMCID: PMC6936674 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1910072116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences are naturally occurring disease modifiers that, if understood, could lead to novel targets for drug development. Autoimmune diseases are more prevalent in women than in men, and sex differences in immune responses have been shown in humans and mice. Here, we discover a global parent-of-origin difference in DNA methylation on the X chromosome that affects gene expression in activated CD4+ T lymphocytes. The paternal X has more methylation than the maternal X, with higher expression of X genes in XY cells since they only express from the maternal X. Thus, parent-of-origin differences in DNA methylation of X genes can play a role in sex differences in immune responses. Many autoimmune diseases are more frequent in females than in males in humans and their mouse models, and sex differences in immune responses have been shown. Despite extensive studies of sex hormones, mechanisms underlying these sex differences remain unclear. Here, we focused on sex chromosomes using the “four core genotypes” model in C57BL/6 mice and discovered that the transcriptomes of both autoantigen and anti-CD3/CD28 stimulated CD4+ T lymphocytes showed higher expression of a cluster of 5 X genes when derived from XY as compared to XX mice. We next determined if higher expression of an X gene in XY compared to XX could be due to parent-of-origin differences in DNA methylation of the X chromosome. We found a global increase in DNA methylation on the X chromosome of paternal as compared to maternal origin. Since DNA methylation usually suppresses gene expression, this result was consistent with higher expression of X genes in XY cells because XY cells always express from the maternal X chromosome. In addition, gene expression analysis of F1 hybrid mice from CAST × FVB reciprocal crosses showed preferential gene expression from the maternal X compared to paternal X chromosome, revealing that these parent-of-origin effects are not strain-specific. SJL mice also showed a parent-of-origin effect on DNA methylation and X gene expression; however, which X genes were affected differed from those in C57BL/6. Together, this demonstrates how parent-of-origin differences in DNA methylation of the X chromosome can lead to sex differences in gene expression during immune responses.
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16
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Yuen GJ. Autoimmunity in women: an eX amination of eX isting models. Clin Immunol 2019; 210:108270. [PMID: 31669190 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2019.108270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Women comprise over 80% of the affected individuals for many autoimmune conditions. Although sex-specific differences in sex hormones are thought to contribute to the female predisposition to autoimmunity, emerging evidence also suggests an intriguing role of both physiological and dysregulated X-chromosome inactivation. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that many immune genes encoded on the X chromosome are expressed biallelically, and the contribution of these sex-specific differences in immune gene dosage to autoimmunity remains to be fully explored. This review highlights recent developments in this field and discusses questions that remain unanswered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace J Yuen
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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17
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Abstract
Identifying the factors driving disease disparities between males and females with multiple sclerosis (MS) holds great promise for deciphering immunopathogenic disease mechanisms. In this issue of JCI, Itoh et al. explore the basis for sexual dimorphism in autoimmunity, specifically in MS. Using the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS, which recapitulates CD4+ T cell-dependent disease, the authors examined the contribution of Kdm6a, a histone demethylase gene known to escape X inactivation. Conditional knockout in CD4+ T cells revealed Kdm6a involvement with a collection of immunologic processes having the potential to skew immunity toward inflammatory responses. This study concisely shows the value of X chromosome gene expression in T cell regulation of autoimmunity and the relevance of Kdm6a in the pathogenesis of EAE as a model of MS.
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18
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Schurz H, Kinnear CJ, Gignoux C, Wojcik G, van Helden PD, Tromp G, Henn B, Hoal EG, Möller M. A Sex-Stratified Genome-Wide Association Study of Tuberculosis Using a Multi-Ethnic Genotyping Array. Front Genet 2019; 9:678. [PMID: 30713548 PMCID: PMC6346682 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is a complex disease with a known human genetic component. Males seem to be more affected than females and in most countries the TB notification rate is twice as high in males than in females. While socio-economic status, behavior and sex hormones influence the male bias they do not fully account for it. Males have only one copy of the X chromosome, while diploid females are subject to X chromosome inactivation. In addition, the X chromosome codes for many immune-related genes, supporting the hypothesis that X-linked genes could contribute to TB susceptibility in a sex-biased manner. We report the first TB susceptibility genome-wide association study (GWAS) with a specific focus on sex-stratified autosomal analysis and the X chromosome. A total of 810 individuals (410 cases and 405 controls) from an admixed South African population were genotyped using the Illumina Multi Ethnic Genotyping Array, specifically designed as a suitable platform for diverse and admixed populations. Association testing was done on the autosome (8,27,386 variants) and X chromosome (20,939 variants) in a sex stratified and combined manner. SNP association testing was not statistically significant using a stringent cut-off for significance but revealed likely candidate genes that warrant further investigation. A genome wide interaction analysis detected 16 significant interactions. Finally, the results highlight the importance of sex-stratified analysis as strong sex-specific effects were identified on both the autosome and X chromosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiko Schurz
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Tuberculosis Bioinformatics Initiative, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Craig J. Kinnear
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chris Gignoux
- Colorado Center for Personalized Medicine, Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Genevieve Wojcik
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Paul D. van Helden
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gerard Tromp
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Tuberculosis Bioinformatics Initiative, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brenna Henn
- Department of Anthropology, UC Davis Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Eileen G. Hoal
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marlo Möller
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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19
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Schurz H, Salie M, Tromp G, Hoal EG, Kinnear CJ, Möller M. The X chromosome and sex-specific effects in infectious disease susceptibility. Hum Genomics 2019; 13:2. [PMID: 30621780 PMCID: PMC6325731 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-018-0185-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The X chromosome and X-linked variants have largely been ignored in genome-wide and candidate association studies of infectious diseases due to the complexity of statistical analysis of the X chromosome. This exclusion is significant, since the X chromosome contains a high density of immune-related genes and regulatory elements that are extensively involved in both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Many diseases present with a clear sex bias, and apart from the influence of sex hormones and socioeconomic and behavioural factors, the X chromosome, X-linked genes and X chromosome inactivation mechanisms contribute to this difference. Females are functional mosaics for X-linked genes due to X chromosome inactivation and this, combined with other X chromosome inactivation mechanisms such as genes that escape silencing and skewed inactivation, could contribute to an immunological advantage for females in many infections. In this review, we discuss the involvement of the X chromosome and X inactivation in immunity and address its role in sexual dimorphism of infectious diseases using tuberculosis susceptibility as an example, in which male sex bias is clear, yet not fully explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiko Schurz
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Tuberculosis Bioinformatics Initiative (SATBBI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Muneeb Salie
- Department of Genetics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105 USA
| | - Gerard Tromp
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Tuberculosis Bioinformatics Initiative (SATBBI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eileen G. Hoal
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Craig J. Kinnear
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Marlo Möller
- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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20
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Eaddy Norton A, Broyles AD. Drug allergy in children and adults: Is it the double X chromosome? Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2018; 122:148-155. [PMID: 30465863 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This article reviews the latest science and epidemiologic studies related to drug allergy in children and adults to explore possible mechanisms related to female propensity for drug allergy. DATA SOURCES PubMed literature review, focusing primarily on the last 5 years. STUDY SELECTIONS Articles reviewing the science behind female predisposition to atopic and asthmatic conditions and epidemiologic studies reviewing drug allergy and drug-induced anaphylaxis. RESULTS Despite adult female predilection for atopic conditions, few laboratory studies explore sex-specific mechanisms in atopic/allergic diseases, and most are focused on autoimmunity and asthma. Drug allergy is more frequently reported in adult females compared with adult males. Adult females are also more likely to have drug-induced anaphylaxis (DIA), although no clear sex predominance has been reported in fatal or severe DIA. Studies in children suggest the reverse picture, with prepubertal males more likely to have drug allergy and DIA than prepubertal girls. CONCLUSION Possible explanations for female predisposition for drug allergy are multifactorial and include disproportionate utilization of health care with more exposure to antibiotics or medications, genetic factors related to the X chromosome, epigenetic changes, and discrepant hormonal interactions with immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Eaddy Norton
- Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Division of Pediatric Pulmonary, Allergy and Immunology, School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Ana Dioun Broyles
- Boston Children's Hospital, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Boston, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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21
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Graves' disease: Introduction, epidemiology, endogenous and environmental pathogenic factors. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2018; 79:599-607. [PMID: 30342794 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Graves' disease is the most frequent cause of hyperthyroidism. Many questions remain about the choice of diagnostic evaluations and treatment strategy according to clinical context (age, gender, pregnancy, etc.) and about the best management of the main extrathyroidal complication that is Graves orbitopathy. The exact pathogenic mechanisms are not fully clear. They associate genetic factors, interactions between endogenous and environmental factors, and immune system dysregulation. Graves' orbitopathy is one of the consequences of this partial understanding. Iatrogenic Graves' disease induced by the new targeted therapies are described and could help to better understand the molecular pathways involved in the disease and to develop new therapeutic approaches.
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Wang Z, Long H, Chang C, Zhao M, Lu Q. Crosstalk between metabolism and epigenetic modifications in autoimmune diseases: a comprehensive overview. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:3353-3369. [PMID: 29974127 PMCID: PMC11105184 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2864-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Little information is available regarding mechanistic links between epigenetic modifications and autoimmune diseases. It seems plausible to surmise that aberrant gene expression and energy metabolism would disrupt immune tolerance, which could ultimately result in autoimmune responses. Metaboloepigenetics is an emerging paradigm that defines the interrelationships between metabolism and epigenetics. Epigenetic modifications, such as the methylation/demethylation of DNA and histone proteins and histone acetylation/deacetylation can be dynamically produced and eliminated by a group of enzymes that consume several metabolites derived from various physiological pathways. Recent insights into cellular metabolism have demonstrated that environmental stimuli such as dietary exposure and nutritional status act through the variation in concentration of metabolites to affect epigenetic regulation and breakdown biochemical homeostasis. Metabolites, including S-adenosylmethionine, acetyl-CoA, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, α-ketoglutarate, and ATP serve as cofactors for chromatin-modifying enzymes, such as methyltransferases, deacetylases and kinases, which are responsible for chromatin remodelling. The concentration of crucial nutrients, such as glucose, glutamine, and oxygen, spatially and temporally modulate epigenetic modifications to regulate gene expression and the reaction to stressful microenvironments in disease pathology. In this review, we focus on the interaction between metabolic intermediates and epigenetic modifications, integrating environmental signals with programmes through modification of the epigenome-metabolome to speculate as to how this may influence autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, No. 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Hai Long
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, No. 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China
| | - Christopher Chang
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis, Suite 6510, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, No. 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, No. 139 Renmin Middle Rd, Changsha, 410011, Hunan, China.
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Mougeot JL, Noll BD, Bahrani Mougeot FK. Sjögren's syndrome X-chromosome dose effect: An epigenetic perspective. Oral Dis 2018; 25:372-384. [PMID: 29316023 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting exocrine glands leading to mouth and eyes dryness. The extent to which epigenetic DNA methylation changes are responsible for an X-chromosome dose effect has yet to be determined. Our objectives were to (i) describe how epigenetic DNA methylation changes could explain an X-chromosome dose effect in SS for women with normal 46,XX genotype and (ii) determine the relevant relationships to this dose effect, between X-linked genes, genes controlling X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) and genes encoding associated transcription factors, all of which are differentially expressed and/or differentially methylated in the salivary glands of patients with SS. We identified 58 upregulated X-chromosome genes, including 22 genes previously shown to escape XCI, based on the analysis of SS patient salivary gland GEO2R gene expression datasets. Moreover, we found XIST and its cis regulators RLIM, FTX, and CHIC1, and polycomb repressor genes of the PRC1/2 complexes to be upregulated. Many of the X-chromosome genes implicated in SS pathogenesis can be regulated by transcription factors which we found to be overexpressed and/or differentially methylated in patients with SS. Determination of the mechanisms underlying methylation-dependent gene expression and impaired XCI is needed to further elucidate the etiopathogenesis of SS.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-Lc Mougeot
- Department of Oral Medicine-Cannon Research Center, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, NC, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - B D Noll
- Department of Oral Medicine-Cannon Research Center, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, NC, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - F K Bahrani Mougeot
- Department of Oral Medicine-Cannon Research Center, Carolinas HealthCare System, Charlotte, NC, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
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Brooks WH. A Review of Autoimmune Disease Hypotheses with Introduction of the "Nucleolus" Hypothesis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2018; 52:333-350. [PMID: 27324247 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-016-8567-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Numerous hypotheses have been proposed in order to explain the complexity of autoimmune diseases. These hypotheses provide frameworks towards understanding the relations between triggers, autoantigen development, symptoms, and demographics. However, testing and refining these hypotheses are difficult tasks since autoimmune diseases have a potentially overwhelming number of variables due to the influence on autoimmune diseases from environmental factors, genetics, and epigenetics. Typically, the hypotheses are narrow in scope, for example, explaining the diseases in terms of genetics without defining detailed roles for environmental factors or epigenetics. Here, we present a brief review of the major hypotheses of autoimmune diseases including a new one related to the consequences of abnormal nucleolar interactions with chromatin, the "nucleolus" hypothesis which was originally termed the "inactive X chromosome and nucleolus nexus" hypothesis. Indeed, the dynamic nucleolus can expand as part of a cellular stress response and potentially engulf portions of chromatin, leading to disruption of the chromatin. The inactive X chromosome (a.k.a. the Barr body) is particularly vulnerable due to its close proximity to the nucleolus. In addition, the polyamines, present at high levels in the nucleolus, are also suspected of contributing to the development of autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley H Brooks
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Ave, CHE205, Tampa, FL, 33620, USA.
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Brooks W. The mysterious polyamines, the enigmatic Barr body, and lupus: comment on the article by Kim et al. Lupus 2018; 27:877-879. [PMID: 29444615 DOI: 10.1177/0961203318757929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
"Polyamine patterns in plasma of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and fever" by Kim et al. provides insight into possible involvement of polyamines in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The authors report decreases in N1-acetylspermidine, spermidine, spermine, and N1-acetylcadaverine and increased cadaverine in SLE. Polyamine involvement in many cellular processes and their unique characteristics (high charge, length, flexibility, and ubiquity) give polyamines importance in health and disease. In this editorial, I describe a scenario, the "X chromosome-nucleolus nexus" hypothesis, in which polyamines could initially rise because of cellular stress. This rise in polyamines increases nucleolar size and activity. Polyamines are critical in the nucleolar assembly of ribonucleoprotein complexes, such as ribosomes. However, the expanding nucleolus could disrupt a neighboring inactive X chromosome (Barr body). This disruption opens additional polyamine genes that alter polyamine levels and types through wasteful synthesis and recycling of polyamines. This could include a decrease in the key polyamines spermidine and spermine, which are critical to nucleolar functioning. And this can decrease S-adenosylmethionine needed for cellular methylation leading to hypomethylation seen in SLE. As a result, the nucleolus can no longer respond properly to future stresses. With altered polyamine levels and types in the nucleolus, many RNA transcripts, proteins, and ribonucleoprotein complexes assembled in the nucleolus may be trapped in autoantigenic conformations. Many of the major autoantigens in SLE are, at least transiently, components of the nucleolus. Therefore, the observations of decreased polyamines reported by Kim et al. could be important in the formation of autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Brooks
- University of South Florida, Chemistry, Tampa, FL, USA
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Brooks WH. Involvement of X Chromosome Short Arm in Autoimmune Diseases: Comment on the Article by Sharma et al. Arthritis Rheumatol 2018; 70:625-626. [PMID: 29316369 DOI: 10.1002/art.40411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Brooks WH. Viral Impact in Autoimmune Diseases: Expanding the "X Chromosome-Nucleolus Nexus" Hypothesis. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1657. [PMID: 29234321 PMCID: PMC5712313 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses are suspected of significant roles in autoimmune diseases but the mechanisms are unclear. We get some insight by considering demands a virus places on host cells. Viruses not only require production of their own proteins, RNA and/or DNA, but also production of additional cellular machinery, such as ribosomes, to handle the increased demands. Since the nucleolus is a major site of RNA processing and ribonucleoprotein assembly, nucleoli are targeted by viruses, directly when viral RNA and proteins enter the nucleolus and indirectly when viruses induce increased expression of cellular polyamine genes. Polyamines are at high levels in nucleoli to assist in RNA folding. The size and activity of nucleoli increase directly with increases in polyamines. Nucleolar expansion due to abnormal increases in polyamines could disrupt nearby chromatin, such as the inactive X chromosome, leading to expression of previously sequestered DNA. Sudden expression of a large concentration of Alu elements from the disrupted inactive X can compete with RNA transcripts containing intronic Alu sequences that normally maintain nucleolar structural integrity. Such disruption of nucleolar activity can lead to misfolded RNAs, misassembled ribonucleoprotein complexes, and fragmentation of the nucleolus. Many autoantigens in lupus are, at least transiently, components of the nucleolus. Considering these effects of viruses, the “X chromosome–nucleolus nexus” hypothesis, which proposed disruption of the inactive X by the nucleolus during stress, is now expanded here to propose subsequent disruption of the nucleolus by previously sequestered Alu elements, which can fragment the nucleolus, leading to generation of autoantigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley H Brooks
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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Abstract
Efforts to understand autoimmunity have been pursued relentlessly for several decades. It has become apparent that the immune system evolved multiple mechanisms for controlling self-reactivity, and defects in one or more of these mechanisms can lead to a breakdown of tolerance. Among the multitude of lesions associated with disease, the most common seem to affect peripheral tolerance rather than central tolerance. The initial trigger for both systemic autoimmune disorders and organ-specific autoimmune disorders probably involves the recognition of self or foreign molecules, especially nucleic acids, by innate sensors. Such recognition, in turn, triggers inflammatory responses and the engagement of previously quiescent autoreactive T cells and B cells. Here we summarize the most prominent autoimmune pathways and identify key issues that require resolution for full understanding of pathogenic autoimmunity.
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Pinto-Medel MJ, Oliver-Martos B, Urbaneja-Romero P, Hurtado-Guerrero I, Ortega-Pinazo J, Serrano-Castro P, Fernández Ó, Leyva L. Global methylation correlates with clinical status in multiple sclerosis patients in the first year of IFNbeta treatment. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8727. [PMID: 28821874 PMCID: PMC5562733 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09301-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The alteration of DNA methylation patterns are a key component of disease onset and/or progression. Our objective was to evaluate the differences in Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 (LINE-1) methylation levels, as a surrogate marker of global DNA methylation, between multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and healthy controls. In addition, we assessed the association of LINE-1 methylation with clinical disease activity in patients treated with IFNbeta (IFNβ). We found that individuals with high levels of LINE-1 methylation showed 6-fold increased risk of suffering MS. Additionally, treated MS patients who bear high LINE-1 methylation levels had an 11-fold increased risk of clinical activity. Moreover, a negative correlation between treatment duration and percentage of LINE-1 methylation, that was statistically significant exclusively in the group of patients without clinical activity, was observed. Our data suggest that in MS patients, a slight global DNA hypermethylation occurs that may be related to the pathophysiology of the disease. In addition, global DNA methylation levels could play a role as a biomarker for the differential clinical response to IFNβ.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Jesús Pinto-Medel
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain.
| | - Begoña Oliver-Martos
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Patricia Urbaneja-Romero
- UGC Neurociencias, Servicio de Neurología, Fundación Pública Andaluza para la Investigación de Málaga en Biomedicina y Salud (FIMABIS), Málaga, Spain
| | - Isaac Hurtado-Guerrero
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Jesús Ortega-Pinazo
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Pedro Serrano-Castro
- UGC Neurociencias, Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Óscar Fernández
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Laura Leyva
- UGC Neurociencias, Laboratorio de Investigación. Instituto de Investigación Biomedica de Málaga (IBIMA), Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga (UMA), Málaga, Spain
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Foma AM, Aslani S, Karami J, Jamshidi A, Mahmoudi M. Epigenetic involvement in etiopathogenesis and implications in treatment of systemic lupus erythematous. Inflamm Res 2017; 66:1057-1073. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-017-1082-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Aslani S, Jafari N, Javan MR, Karami J, Ahmadi M, Jafarnejad M. Epigenetic Modifications and Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis. Neuromolecular Med 2016; 19:11-23. [PMID: 27382982 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-016-8422-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Breakthroughs in genetic studies, like whole human genome sequencing and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), have richened our knowledge of etiopathology of autoimmune diseases (AID) through discovery of genetic patterns. Nonetheless, the precise etiology of autoimmune diseases remains largely unknown. The lack of complete concordance of autoimmune disease in identical twins suggests that non-genetic factors also play a major role in determining disease susceptibility. Although there is no certain definition, epigenetics has been known as heritable alterations in gene function without changes in the nucleotide sequence. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA-associated gene expression suppression are the central mechanisms for epigenetic regulations. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by both inflammatory and neurodegenerative features. Although studies on epigenetic alterations in MS only began in the past decade, a mounting number of surveys suggest that epigenetic changes may be involved in the initiation and development of MS, probably through bridging the effects of environmental risk factors to genetics. Arming with clear understanding of epigenetic dysregulations underpins development of epigenetic therapies. Identifying agents inhibiting the enzymes controlling epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methyltransferases and histone deacetylases, will be promising therapeutic tool toward MS. In the article underway, it is aimed to go through the recent progresses, attempting to disclose how epigenetics associates with the pathogenesis of MS and how can be used as therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Aslani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Jafari
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, 741 South Limestone St. Biomedical Biological Research Building (BBSRB), 378D, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA.
| | - Mohammad Reza Javan
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Jafar Karami
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Ahmadi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Jafarnejad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Science, Ardabil, Iran
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Aslani S, Mahmoudi M, Karami J, Jamshidi AR, Malekshahi Z, Nicknam MH. Epigenetic alterations underlying autoimmune diseases. Autoimmunity 2016; 49:69-83. [DOI: 10.3109/08916934.2015.1134511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Ishido N, Inoue N, Watanabe M, Hidaka Y, Iwatani Y. The relationship between skewed X chromosome inactivation and the prognosis of Graves' and Hashimoto's diseases. Thyroid 2015; 25:256-61. [PMID: 25338305 PMCID: PMC4322037 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2014.0318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) predominantly develop in females. One of two X chromosomes is randomly inactivated by methylation in each female cell, but it has been reported that skewed X chromosome inactivation (XCI) may be associated with the development of autoimmune diseases. To clarify the significance of skewed XCI in the prognosis and development of AITD, we investigated the proportion of skewed XCI in female patients with AITD. METHODS We analyzed the degree of XCI skewing in 120 female patients with AITD (77 patients with Graves' disease [GD] and 43 patients with Hashimoto's disease [HD]) and 49 female controls in DNA from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). We performed XCI analysis by digesting inactive DNA with a methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme (HpaII) followed by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for the polymorphic CAG repeat of the androgen receptor gene and electrophoresis of the PCR products. RESULTS The proportion of skewed XCI (≥65% skewing) was not significantly different between AITD patients and control subjects but was higher in patients with intractable GD (66.7%) than those with GD in remission (25.0%, p=0.0033) and control subjects (32.6%, p=0.0038). When the cutoff value for XCI skewing was relaxed, the proportion of skewed XCI (≥60% skewing) was higher in patients with severe HD (76.5%) than in those with mild HD (41.2%, p=0.0342). CONCLUSIONS Skewed XCI is related to the prognosis of AITD, particularly the intractability of GD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Ishido
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Naoya Inoue
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mikio Watanabe
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoh Hidaka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Iwatani
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Yang P, Yin K, Zhong D, Liao Q, Li K. Inhibition of osteosarcoma cell progression by MacroH2A via the downregulation of cyclin D and cyclin‑dependent kinase genes. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:1905-10. [PMID: 25378143 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
MacroH2A is a histone modification factor the activity of which has been acutely studied in cancer progression, and a number of studies have shown that the progression of certain types of cancer is under regulation by MacroH2A. However, information regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms of MacroH2A inhibition on the cell cycle remains elusive, and elucidating this process may aid in the production of novel treatment strategies. The aim of the current study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of MacroH2A on osteosarcoma cell progression, and the possible molecular mechanisms of this process. MacroH2A overexpression and interference vectors were designed and transfected into U2‑OS osteosarcoma cells. The cells underwent reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR), western blot analysis and immunofluorescence assays. The apoptosis rate and cell cycle stage were assayed using flow cytometry. The results revealed that the overexpression of MacroH2A inhibited the progression of U2‑OS osteosarcoma cells, and the cells were arrested at the G2/M stage of the cell cycle. The molecular mechanism by which MacroH2A suppresses the cell progression involves the inhibition of the expression of cyclin D and cyclin‑dependent kinase (CDK) genes, including cyclin D1, cyclin D2, CDK4, CDK6 and CDK8. Taken together, the present results revealed that MacroH2A is an important modifier of chromatin that downregulates the progression of osteosarcoma cells and triggers disturbance of the cell cycle via the downregulation of cyclin D and CDK genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Ke Yin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Da Zhong
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Qiande Liao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Kanghua Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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Neidhart M, Karouzakis E, Jüngel A, Gay RE, Gay S. Inhibition of spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase activity: a new therapeutic concept in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheumatol 2014; 66:1723-33. [PMID: 24578214 DOI: 10.1002/art.38574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Changes in polyamine-modulated factor 1 (PMF-1) promoter methylation might favor the expression of spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase 1 (SSAT-1), causing excessive consumption of S-adenosyl methionine (SAM). This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of SSAT-1 activity inhibition, either alone or in combination with SAM. METHODS Synovial fibroblasts were isolated from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or osteoarthritis (OA). PMF-1 promoter methylation was determined by pyrosequencing. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) against SSAT-1 were transfected weekly in RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs). In addition, synovial fibroblasts were treated with diminazene aceturate (DA), an inhibitor of SSAT-1. SSAT-1, 5-methylcytosine (5-MeC), adenosyl methionine decarboxylase (AMD), PMF-1, DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT-1), CXCL12, β1 integrin, and CD44 levels were measured by flow cytometry. Putrescine levels were determined by colorimetry. Levels of matrix metalloproteinases were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell adhesion was tested. The SCID mouse model of RA was used to monitor the invasiveness of RASFs. RESULTS RASFs showed elevated SSAT-1, AMD, and PMF-1 levels. However, PMF-1 promoter methylation was unchanged. Transfection of siRNA targeting SSAT-1 increased 5-MeC levels within 21 days. Similarly, DA increased 5-MeC levels in RASFs. In addition, DA increased the levels of DNMT-1, decreased the levels of AMD, putrescine, activation markers, and MMP-1, and altered the adhesion of RASFs. DA was more efficient in RASFs with higher levels of SSAT-1. Most interestingly, the combination of DA and SAM reduced the invasiveness of RASFs by 70%. CONCLUSION The use of DA alone or in combination with SAM/L-methionine might introduce a new therapeutic concept in RA. This is the first therapy that would directly target RASFs and thereby inhibit ongoing joint destruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Neidhart
- Zurich Center of Integrative Human Physiology, Center of Experimental Rheumatology, and University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Lei S, Long J, Li J. MacroH2A suppresses the proliferation of the B16 melanoma cell line. Mol Med Rep 2014; 10:1845-50. [PMID: 25119498 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.2482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
MacroH2A is the most frequently altered histone, which participates in cancer progression. Increasing evidence demonstrates that cancer progression could be regulated by macroH2A by affecting the cell cycle. In the present study, it was demonstrated that macroH2A suppresses melanoma cell progression and the molecular mechanisms underlying this process were examined. The interference and overexpression vectors of macroH2A were constructed and then transferred into B16 melanoma cells and, following transfection, were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blot analysis and immunofluorescence assays. Apoptosis and the cell cycle stage among all the treatment groups were detected. Then, cyclin D1, cyclin D3, cyclin-dependent protein kinase (CDK) 4, CDK6 and CDK8 expression was detected in order to elucidate the effects of macroH2A on cell cycle-related genes. The results demonstrated that the overexpression of macroH2A suppressed melanoma cell progression and arrested the cells in the G2/M stage. Furthermore, macroH2A inhibits cyclin D1, cyclin D2, CDK6 and CDK8 expression in B16 melanoma cells. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that macroH2A, a critical component of chromatin, suppresses the development of melanoma (which results from a disordered cell cycle) through regulating cyclin D1, cyclin D3 and CDK6 genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaorong Lei
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Jianhong Long
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
| | - Jiaguang Li
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410008, P.R. China
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Konsta OD, Thabet Y, Le Dantec C, Brooks WH, Tzioufas AG, Pers JO, Renaudineau Y. The contribution of epigenetics in Sjögren's Syndrome. Front Genet 2014; 5:71. [PMID: 24765104 PMCID: PMC3982050 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2014.00071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2013] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune epithelitis that combines exocrine gland dysfunctions and lymphocytic infiltrations. While the pathogenesis of SS remains unclear, its etiology is multifunctional and includes a combination of genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and epigenetic factors. Recently, interest has grown in the involvement of epigenetics in autoimmune diseases. Epigenetics is defined as changes in gene expression, that are inheritable and that do not entail changes in the DNA sequence. In SS, several epigenetic mechanisms are defective including DNA demethylation that predominates in epithelial cells, an abnormal expression of microRNAs, and abnormal chromatin positioning-associated with autoantibody production. Last but not least, epigenetic modifications are reversible as observed in minor salivary glands from SS patients after B cell depletion using rituximab. Thus epigenetic findings in SS open new perspectives for therapeutic approaches as well as the possible identification of new biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsia D Konsta
- Research Unit EA2216 Immunology, Pathology and Immunotherapy, SFR ScinBios and Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest France ; Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National University of Athens Athens, Greece
| | - Yosra Thabet
- Research Unit EA2216 Immunology, Pathology and Immunotherapy, SFR ScinBios and Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest France
| | - Christelle Le Dantec
- Research Unit EA2216 Immunology, Pathology and Immunotherapy, SFR ScinBios and Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest France
| | - Wesley H Brooks
- Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Athanasios G Tzioufas
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, National University of Athens Athens, Greece
| | - Jacques-Olivier Pers
- Research Unit EA2216 Immunology, Pathology and Immunotherapy, SFR ScinBios and Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest France
| | - Yves Renaudineau
- Research Unit EA2216 Immunology, Pathology and Immunotherapy, SFR ScinBios and Labex Igo "Immunotherapy Graft, Oncology", Réseau Épigénétique du Cancéropole Grand Ouest, European University of Brittany Brest France ; Laboratory of Immunology and Immunotherapy, Hôpital Morvan - Brest University Medical School Brest France
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Abstract
In higher eukaryotic organisms epigenetic modifications are crucial for proper chromatin folding and thereby proper regulation of gene expression. In the last years the involvement of aberrant epigenetic modifications in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases has been recognized and attracted significant interest. However, the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the different disease phenotypes are still poorly understood. As autoimmune and inflammatory diseases are at least partly T cell mediated, we will provide in this chapter an introduction to the epigenetics of T cell differentiation followed by a summary of the current knowledge on aberrant epigenetic modifications that dysfunctional T cells display in various diseases such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
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Ferrari R, Dawoodi S, Raju M, Thumma A, Hynan LS, Maasumi SH, Reisch JS, O'Bryant S, Jenkins M, Barber R, Momeni P. Androgen receptor gene and sex-specific Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2013; 34:2077.e19-20. [PMID: 23545426 PMCID: PMC4012749 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2013.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Women are at a 2-fold risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) (onset at 65 years of age or older) compared with men. During perimenopausal years, women undergo hormonal changes that are accompanied by metabolic, cardiovascular, and inflammatory changes. These all together have been suggested as risk factors for late-onset AD. However, not all perimenopausal women develop AD; we hypothesize that certain genetic factors might underlie the increased susceptibility for developing AD in postmenopausal women. We investigated the Androgen Receptor gene (AR) in a clinical cohort of male and female AD patients and normal control subjects by sequencing all coding exons and evaluating the length and distribution of the CAG repeat in exon 1. We could not establish a correlation between the repeat length, sex, and the disease status, nor did we identify possible pathogenic variants. AR is located on the X chromosome; to assess its role in AD, X-inactivation patterns will need to be studied to directly correlate the actual expressed repeat length to a possible sex-specific phenotypic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Ferrari
- Texas Tech University, Health Sciences Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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Wong EB, Khan TN, Mohan C, Rahman ZSM. The lupus-prone NZM2410/NZW strain-derived Sle1b sublocus alters the germinal center checkpoint in female mice in a B cell-intrinsic manner. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 189:5667-81. [PMID: 23144494 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1201661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
C57BL/6 (B6) mice carrying the Sle1b sublocus (named B6.Sle1b), which harbors the lupus-associated NZM2410/NZW SLAM family genes, produce antinuclear Abs (ANAs). However, the role and mechanism(s) involved in the alteration of the germinal center (GC) tolerance checkpoint in the development of ANAs in these mice is not defined. In this study, we show significantly higher spontaneously formed GCs (Spt-GCs) in B6.Sle1b female mice compared with B6 controls. We also found a significant increase in CD4(+)CXCR5(hi)PD-1(hi) spontaneously activated follicular Th cells in B6.Sle1b female mice. Compared with B6 controls, B6.Sle1b female mice had increased numbers of proliferating B cells predominantly located in Spt-GCs. The elevated Spt-GCs in B6.Sle1b female mice were strongly associated with increased ANA-specific Ab-forming cells and ANA titers. The increased numbers of Spt-GCs and spontaneously activated follicular Th cells in B6.Sle1b mice were not the result of a generalized defect in B cells expressing Sle1b. Consistent with the elevated spontaneous response in B6.Sle1b mice, the attenuated GC response characteristic of DNA and p-azophenylarsonate reactive B cells from Ig V(H) knock-in mice (termed HKIR) were relieved in adoptively transferred recipients in the presence of Sle1b. Finally, by generating mixed bone marrow chimeras, we showed that the effect of Sle1b on Spt-GC, follicular Th cell, and autoantibody responses in B6.Sle1b mice was B cell autonomous. These data indicate that the NZM2410/NZW-derived Sle1b sublocus in conjunction with the female sex primarily affects B cells, leading to the alteration of the GC tolerance checkpoint and the generation of ANA-specific Ab-forming cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric B Wong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Li Y, Tan T, Zong L, He D, Tao W, Liang Q. Study of methylation of histone H3 lysine 9 and H3 lysine 27 during X chromosome inactivation in three types of cells. Chromosome Res 2012; 20:769-78. [PMID: 22956184 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-012-9311-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Revised: 08/20/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Histone methylation is one epigenetic modification of an inactive X chromosome (Xi). Histone H3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me) and histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me) are both associated with the chromatin of gene-silenced regions in the X chromosome and with X inactivation. Studies have shown that H3K9me is supposedly an early mark on the X chromosome during inactivation. Here, we examined the distribution and enrichment profiles of H3K9me and H3K27me by indirect immunofluorescence. We found that H3K9me appears to have a broad distribution throughout the whole genome, but is specific, to a certain extent, to the Xi in WI38 cells. In contrast, H3K27me is highly specific to the entire Xi, which differs significantly from other areas of the nucleus. Thus, H3K27me is more suitable as an epigenetic mark than H3K9me. The chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses also showed that H3K27me predominates on the inactive genes of the X chromosome. Additionally, we compared the levels of H3K9me and H3K27me in four X-linked genes and two autosomal genes between the normal cells (WI38) and the tumor cells (HeLa). The results revealed that the methylation levels of the inactive genes (POLA and OCRL) in tumor cells (HeLa) were lower than those in normal cells (WI38) and that the methylation levels of the Xi inactivation-avoidance genes (SMCX and ZFX) and autosomal genes (Myc and β-actin) varied widely in tumor cells (HeLa). These events may be significant for cancer cell development and contribute to the characteristics of tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
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Abstract
Genetics and environmental factors have important roles in autoimmune diseases but neither has given us sufficient understanding of these mysterious diseases. Therefore, we are now looking closer at epigenetics, an interface between genetics and environmental factors. Epigenetics can be defined as reversible heritable changes to chromatin that can alter gene expression without altering the gene's DNA sequence. Methylation of DNA and histones are primary means of epigenetic control. By adding methyl groups to DNA and histones, it can limit accessibility of the underlying gene thereby altering the amount of gene expression. The methyl group is derived from an essential molecule in the cell, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). However, a group of small molecules called polyamines also require SAM for their synthesis. Polyamines are essential for many cellular functions and polyamine activity is increased in many autoimmune diseases. Presented here is the "polyamine hypothesis" in which increased polyamine synthesis competes with cellular methylation (epigenetic control) for SAM. It is proposed that increased polyamine activity can cause disruption of cellular methylation, which can lead to abnormal expression of previously sequestered genes and disruption of other methylation-dependent cellular processes.
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Abstract
There have been numerous methods and ways to classify autoimmune diseases. By far, the most traditional has been to separate immune-mediated pathology into organ-specific and organ-non-specific diseases. The classic systemic autoimmune diseases are, of course, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus. The classic organ-specific autoimmune diseases have been autoimmune thyroiditis and autoimmune gastritis. However, as our understanding of the loss of tolerance has expanded, so has the long list of autoimmune diseases. In many cases, the distinction between organ-specific and organ-non-specific or systemic autoimmunity becomes a blur. In this issue, we discuss recent concepts in autoimmune pancreatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Goodpasture's syndrome, myofasciitis, type I diabetes, polymyositis, autoimmune thyroid disease, IgA nephropathy, autoimmune uveitis, and ANCA-associated vasculitis. Common themes on both etiology and effector mechanisms are described throughout these papers with an attempt to provide a cutting-edge overview.
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Dieudé P, Bouaziz M, Guedj M, Riemekasten G, Airò P, Müller M, Cusi D, Matucci-Cerinic M, Melchers I, Koenig W, Salvi E, Wichmann HE, Cuomo G, Hachulla E, Diot E, Hunzelmann N, Caramaschi P, Mouthon L, Riccieri V, Distler J, Tarner I, Avouac J, Meyer O, Kahan A, Chiocchia G, Boileau C, Allanore Y. Evidence of the contribution of the X chromosome to systemic sclerosis susceptibility: association with the functional IRAK1 196Phe/532Ser haplotype. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 63:3979-87. [PMID: 21898345 DOI: 10.1002/art.30640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several autoimmune disorders, including systemic sclerosis (SSc), are characterized by a strong sex bias. To date, it is not known whether genes on the sex chromosomes influence SSc susceptibility. Recently, an IRAK1 haplotype that contains the 196Phe functional variant (rs1059702), located on Xq28, was found to confer susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was undertaken to test for an association between SSc and the IRAK1 SLE risk haplotype. METHODS We tested for an association with the IRAK1 SLE risk haplotype in a discovery set of 849 SSc patients and 625 controls. IRAK1 rs1059702 was further genotyped in a replication set, which included Caucasian women from Italy (493 SSc patients and 509 controls) and Germany (466 SSc patients and 1,083 controls). RESULTS An association between the IRAK1 haplotype and SSc was detected in the discovery set. In both the discovery and replication sets, the rs1059702 TT genotype was found to be associated with specific SSc subsets, highlighting a potential contribution to disease severity. A meta-analysis provided evidence of an association of both the T allele and TT genotype with the overall disease, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.20 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of 1.06-1.35 for the T allele (P = 0.003) and an OR of 1.49 and 95% CI of 1.06-2.10 for the TT genotype (P = 0.023). However, the most notable associations were observed with the diffuse cutaneous, anti-topoisomerase I antibody positive, and SSc-related fibrosing alveolitis subsets (OR 2.35 [95% CI 1.51-3.66], P = 1.56 × 10(-4), OR 2.84 [95% CI 1.87-4.32], P = 1.07 × 10(-6), and OR 2.09 [95% CI 1.35-3.24], P = 9.05 × 10(-4), respectively). CONCLUSION Our study provides the first evidence of an association between IRAK1 and SSc, demonstrating that a sex chromosome gene directly influences SSc susceptibility and its phenotypic heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Dieudé
- Paris Diderot University, AP-HP, INSERM U699, Paris, France.
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Bianchi I, Lleo A, Gershwin ME, Invernizzi P. The X chromosome and immune associated genes. J Autoimmun 2011; 38:J187-92. [PMID: 22178198 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2011.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The X chromosome is known to contain the largest number of immune-related genes of the whole human genome. For this reason, X chromosome has recently become subject of great interest and attention and numerous studies have been aimed at understanding the role of genes on the X chromosome in triggering and maintaining the autoimmune aggression. Autoimmune diseases are indeed a growing heath burden affecting cumulatively up to 10% of the general population. It is intriguing that most X-linked primary immune deficiencies carry significant autoimmune manifestations, thus illustrating the critical role played by products of single gene located on the X chromosome in the onset, function and homeostasis of the immune system. Again, the plethora of autoimmune stigmata observed in patients with Turner syndrome, a disease due to the lack of one X chromosome or the presence of major X chromosome deletions, indicate that X-linked genes play a unique and major role in autoimmunity. There have been several reports on a role of X chromosome gene dosage through inactivation or duplication in women with autoimmune diseases, for example through a higher rate of circulating cells with a single X chromosome (i.e. with X monosomy). Finally, a challenge for researchers in the coming years will be to dissect the role for the large number of X-linked microRNAs from the perspective of autoimmune disease development. Taken together, X chromosome might well constitute the common trait of the susceptibility to autoimmune diseases, other than to explain the female preponderance of these conditions. This review will focus on the available evidence on X chromosome changes and discuss their potential implications and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Bianchi
- Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Rozzano, Italy
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Karouzakis E, Gay RE, Gay S, Neidhart M. Increased recycling of polyamines is associated with global DNA hypomethylation in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 64:1809-17. [PMID: 22170508 DOI: 10.1002/art.34340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Global DNA hypomethylation in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) contributes to their intrinsic activation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether increased polyamine metabolism is associated with a decreased level of S-adenosyl methionine (SAM), causing global DNA hypomethylation. METHODS Synovial fibroblasts were isolated from synovial tissue obtained from 12 patients with RA and from 6 patients with osteoarthritis (OA). The cells were stained for S-adenosyl methionine decarboxylase (AMD), spermidine/spermine N1-acetyltransferase (SSAT1), polyamine-modulated factor 1-binding protein 1 (PMFBP1), solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2), DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT-1), α9 integrin, and β1 integrin and analyzed by flow cytometry. Nuclear 5-methylcytosine (5-MeC) was measured by flow cytometry, the expression of diacetylspermine (DASp) in cell culture supernatants and cell extracts was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and SAM expression in cell extracts was measured by fluorometry. RESULTS The expression of SSAT1, AMD, and PMFBP1 was significantly increased in RASFs compared with OASFs. The expression of DASp in cell culture supernatants and the expression of SLC3A2 were significantly elevated in RASFs. The levels of SAM in cell culture extracts, as well as the levels of DNMT-1 protein and 5-MeC, were significantly reduced in RASFs. Parameters of polyamine metabolism were negatively correlated with the expression of SAM, DNMT-1, and 5-MeC. CONCLUSION These data clearly show that intrinsic elevations of PMFBP1 and SSAT1 enhance the catabolism and recycling of polyamines in RASFs and suggest that high consumption of SAM via this pathway is an important factor contributing to global DNA hypomethylation in these cells.
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Pan Z, Chang C. Gender and the regulation of longevity: implications for autoimmunity. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 11:A393-403. [PMID: 22182796 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
For humans and other animals, gender has an influence not only on their physical attributes, but also on life span. In humans, females have a longer life span than males. The reasons for this are not entirely clear. The role of gender in the regulation of longevity may be linked to gender specific genetic differences, including the expression of sex hormone patterns and the changes in these patterns during an individual's lifetime. In addition, the effect of sex hormones on other physiologic responses to environmental influences on cellular stress and oxidative damage may play a role in longevity. Gender can impact many disease states, including autoimmune diseases, and the factors that affect the development of autoimmune diseases and the regulation of longevity may share common mechanistic pathways. Other factors that may play a role include telomere and telomerase related differences, caloric restriction and changes in mitochondrial DNA. Inflammatory and regulatory pathways such as insulin/IGF signaling and Target of Rapamycin (TOR) signaling may also play a role in longevity and aging-related diseases such as Alzheimer's. The role of gender differences in the regulation of these pathways or factors is not entirely clear. The role of X-chromosome inactivation in longevity has also yet to be fully elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Pan
- Nemours/A.I duPont Hospital for children, Division of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, USA
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Selmi C, Brunetta E, Raimondo MG, Meroni PL. The X chromosome and the sex ratio of autoimmunity. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 11:A531-7. [PMID: 22155196 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The number of human conditions that are currently considered to be autoimmune diseases (AID) has been steadily growing over the past decades and it is now estimated that over 10 million people are affected in the United States. One of the major shared features among AID is the predominance in the female sex which in some cases changes with the age at disease diagnosis. Numerous hypotheses have been formulated based on intuitive scientific backgrounds to justify this sex imbalance, i.e. sex hormones and reproductive factors, fetal microchimerism, other sex-related environmental factors, a skewing of the X-chromosome inactivation patterns, and major defects in sex chromosomes. Nevertheless, none of these hypotheses has thus far gathered enough convincing evidence and in most cases data are conflicting, as well illustrated by the reports on fetal microchimerism in systemic sclerosis or primary biliary cirrhosis. The present article will critically discuss the main hypotheses (loss of mosaicism, reactivation, and haploinsufficiency) that have been proposed based on findings in female patients with specific AID along with two additional mechanisms (X-chromosome vulnerability and X-linked polyamine genes) that have been observed in AID models. Further, recent data have significantly shifted the paradigm of X chromosome inactivation by demonstrating that a large number of genes can variably escape silencing on one or both chromosomes. As a result we may hypothesize that more than one mechanism may contribute to the female susceptibility to tolerance breakdown while the possibility that unknown factors may indeed protect men from AID should not be overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Selmi
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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