1
|
Zhang D, Wu X, Xue X, Li W, Zhou P, Lv Z, Zhao K, Zhu F. Ancient dormant virus remnant ERVW-1 drives ferroptosis via degradation of GPX4 and SLC3A2 in schizophrenia. Virol Sin 2024; 39:31-43. [PMID: 37690733 PMCID: PMC10877354 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.09.001] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are remnants of retroviral infections in human germline cells from millions of years ago. Among these, ERVW-1 (also known as HERV-W-ENV, ERVWE1, or ENVW) encodes the envelope protein of the HERV-W family, which contributes to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Additionally, neuropathological studies have revealed cell death and disruption of iron homeostasis in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia. Here, our bioinformatics analysis showed that differentially expressed genes in the human prefrontal cortex RNA microarray dataset (GSE53987) were mainly related to ferroptosis and its associated pathways. Clinical data demonstrated significantly lower expression levels of ferroptosis-related genes, particularly Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2), in schizophrenia patients compared to normal controls. Further in-depth analyses revealed a significant negative correlation between ERVW-1 expression and the levels of GPX4/SLC3A2 in schizophrenia. Studies indicated that ERVW-1 increased iron levels, malondialdehyde (MDA), and transferrin receptor protein 1 (TFR1) expression while decreasing glutathione (GSH) levels and triggering the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting that ERVW-1 can induce ferroptosis. Ongoing research has shown that ERVW-1 reduced the expression of GPX4 and SLC3A2 by inhibiting their promoter activities. Moreover, Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), the ferroptosis inhibitor, reversed the iron accumulation and mitochondrial membrane potential loss, as well as restored the expressions of ferroptosis markers GSH, MDA, and TFR1 induced by ERVW-1. In conclusion, ERVW-1 could promote ferroptosis by downregulating the expression of GPX4 and SLC3A2, revealing a novel mechanism by which ERVW-1 contributes to neuronal cell death in schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiulin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Wenshi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhao Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Kexin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Fan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China; Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Allergy & Immunology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fan TJ, Cui J. Human Endogenous Retroviruses in Diseases. Subcell Biochem 2023; 106:403-439. [PMID: 38159236 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-40086-5_15] [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] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), which are conserved sequences of ancient retroviruses, are widely distributed in the human genome. Although most HERVs have been rendered inactive by evolution, some have continued to exhibit important cytological functions. HERVs in the human genome perform dual functions: on the one hand, they are involved in important physiological processes such as placental development and immune regulation; on the other hand, their aberrant expression is closely associated with the pathological processes of several diseases, such as cancers, autoimmune diseases, and viral infections. HERVs can also regulate a variety of host cellular functions, including the expression of protein-coding genes and regulatory elements that have evolved from HERVs. Here, we present recent research on the roles of HERVs in viral infections and cancers, including the dysregulation of HERVs in various viral infections, HERV-induced epigenetic modifications of histones (such as methylation and acetylation), and the potential mechanisms of HERV-mediated antiviral immunity. We also describe therapies to improve the efficacy of vaccines and medications either by directly or indirectly targeting HERVs, depending on the HERV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Jiao Fan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Cui
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology & Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang M, Zheng S, Liang JQ. Transcriptional and reverse transcriptional regulation of host genes by human endogenous retroviruses in cancers. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:946296. [PMID: 35928153 PMCID: PMC9343867 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.946296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) originated from ancient retroviral infections of germline cells millions of years ago and have evolved as part of the host genome. HERVs not only retain the capacity as retroelements but also regulate host genes. The expansion of HERVs involves transcription by RNA polymerase II, reverse transcription, and re-integration into the host genome. Fast progress in deep sequencing and functional analysis has revealed the importance of domesticated copies of HERVs, including their regulatory sequences, transcripts, and proteins in normal cells. However, evidence also suggests the involvement of HERVs in the development and progression of many types of cancer. Here we summarize the current state of knowledge about the expression of HERVs, transcriptional regulation of host genes by HERVs, and the functions of HERVs in reverse transcription and gene editing with their reverse transcriptase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengwen Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Second Affiliated Hospital, Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shu Zheng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Second Affiliated Hospital, Cancer Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Shu Zheng,
| | - Jessie Qiaoyi Liang
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Center for Gut Microbiota Research, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Jessie Qiaoyi Liang,
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zheng J, Wei Y, Han GZ. The diversity and evolution of retroviruses: perspectives from viral “fossils”. Virol Sin 2022; 37:11-18. [PMID: 35234634 PMCID: PMC8922424 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2022.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Retroviruses exclusively infect vertebrates, causing a variety of diseases. The replication of retroviruses requires reverse transcription and integration into host genomes. When infecting germline cells, retroviruses become inherited vertically, forming endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). ERVs document past viral infections, providing molecular fossils for studying the evolutionary history of retroviruses. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in understanding the diversity and evolution of retroviruses from the perspectives of viral fossils, and discuss the effects of ERVs on the evolution of host biology. Recent advances in understanding the diversity and evolution of retroviruses. Methods to analyze ERVs. The effects of ERVs on the evolution of host biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialu Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yutong Wei
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Guan-Zhu Han
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pérez-Pérez S, Domínguez-Mozo MI, García-Martínez MÁ, García-Frontini MC, Villarrubia N, Costa-Frossard L, Villar LM, Arroyo R, Álvarez-Lafuente R. Anti-Human Herpesvirus 6 A/B Antibodies Titers Correlate With Multiple Sclerosis-Associated Retrovirus Envelope Expression. Front Immunol 2021; 12:798003. [PMID: 34912348 PMCID: PMC8666430 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.798003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retrovirus W family envelope proteins (pHERV-W ENV/syncytin-1) have been repeatedly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Here, we have focused on the study of pHERV-W ENV/syncytin-1 expression levels in MS patients (relapsing and progressive forms) and in healthy donors (HD) and on exploring their possible relationship with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus-6A/B (HHV-6A/B). We included blood samples from 101 MS patients and 37 HD to analyze antiviral antibody titers by ELISA and pHERV-W ENV/syncytin-1 expression levels by flow cytometry as well as by qPCR. Patients with relapsing MS forms showed significantly higher pHERV-W ENV/syncytin-1 protein and gene expression levels than HD. Progressive MS patients also showed significantly higher protein and gene expression levels than both HD and relapsing MS patients. Regarding antiviral antibodies titers, anti-HHV-6A/B IgM levels were positively correlated with pHERV-W ENV/syncytin-1 protein expression levels in patients with relapsing MS, while in the progressive forms patients this correlation was found with anti-HHVA/B IgG levels. Therefore, pHERV-W ENV could be involved in MS pathogenesis, playing a role in relapsing and progressive forms. Besides, anti-HHV-6A/B antibodies positively correlated with pHERV-W ENV expression. Further studies are needed to better understand this possible relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Pérez-Pérez
- Environmental Factors in Degenerative Diseases Research Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - María I. Domínguez-Mozo
- Environmental Factors in Degenerative Diseases Research Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Ángel García-Martínez
- Environmental Factors in Degenerative Diseases Research Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Celeste García-Frontini
- Environmental Factors in Degenerative Diseases Research Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Noelia Villarrubia
- Immunology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Luisa M. Villar
- Immunology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Arroyo
- Neurology Department, Hospital Universitario Quironsalud Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Álvarez-Lafuente
- Environmental Factors in Degenerative Diseases Research Group, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zarghami A, Li Y, Claflin SB, van der Mei I, Taylor BV. Role of environmental factors in multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:1389-1408. [PMID: 34494502 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1978843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Environmental factors play a significant role in the pathogenesis and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), either acting alone or by interacting with other environmental or genetic factors. This cumulative exposure to external risk factors is highly complex and highly variable between individuals. AREAS COVERED We narratively review the current evidence on the role of environment-specific risk factors in MS onset and progression, as well as the effect of gene-environment interactions and the timing of exposure We have reviewed the latest literature, by Ovid Medline, retrieving the most recently published systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses and more recent studies not previously included in meta-analyses or systematic reviews. EXPERT OPINION There is some good evidence supporting the impact of some environmental risk factors in increasing the risk of developing MS. Tobacco smoking, low vitamin D levels and/or low sun exposure, Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) seropositivity and a history of infectious mononucleosis may increase the risk of developing MS. Additionally, there is some evidence that gene-smoking, gene-EBV, and smoking-EBV interactions additively affect the risk of MS onset. However, the evidence for a role of other environmental factors in MS progression is limited. Finally, there is some evidence that tobacco smoking, insufficient vitamin D levels and/or sun exposure have impacts on MS phenotypes and various markers of disease activity including relapse, disability progression and MRI findings. Clearly the effect of environmental factors on MS disease course is an area that requires significantly more research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amin Zarghami
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Suzi B Claflin
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Ingrid van der Mei
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| |
Collapse
|