1
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Li X, Pei P, Shen J, Yu J, Wang F, Wang L, Liu C, Wang S. Folate deficiency reduced aberrant level of DOT1L-mediated histone H3K79 methylation causes disruptive SHH gene expression involved in neural tube defects. Epigenetics Chromatin 2023; 16:50. [PMID: 38093377 PMCID: PMC10720071 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-023-00517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the most severe congenital abnormalities characterized by failures of the neural tube to close during early embryogenesis. Maternal folate deficiency could impact the occurrence of NTDs, however, the mechanisms involved in the cause of NTDs are poorly defined. RESULTS Here, we report that histone H3 methyltransferase disruptor of telomeric silencing 1-like (DOT1L) expression was significantly downregulated, and low levels of H3K79me2 were found in the corresponding NTDs samples with their maternal serum folate under low levels. Using ChIP-seq assays, we found that a decrease of H3K79me2 downregulates the expression of Shh and Sufu in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) under folate deficiency. Interestingly, folate antagonist methotrexate treatment led to attenuation of H3K79me2 due to Dot1l, affecting Shh and Sufu genes regulation. Upon further analysis, we find that the genes Shh and Sufu are both downregulated in the brain tissues of mice and humans with NTDs. There was a positive correlation between the transcription levels of Shh, Sufu and the protein levels of DOT1L by Pearson correlation analysis. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that abnormal Shh and Sufu genes expression reduced by aberrant Dot1l-mediated H3K79me2 levels could be the cause of NTDs occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, 261041, Shandong, China
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jinying Shen
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Juan Yu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, 046000, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Changyun Liu
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China.
| | - Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
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2
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Feng L, Zhao T, Xu H, Shi X, Li C, Hsia KJ, Zhang S. Physical forces guide curvature sensing and cell migration mode bifurcating. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad237. [PMID: 37680491 PMCID: PMC10482382 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The ability of cells to sense and adapt to curvy topographical features has been implicated in organ morphogenesis, tissue repair, and tumor metastasis. However, how individual cells or multicellular assemblies sense and differentiate curvatures remains elusive. Here, we reveal a curvature sensing mechanism in which surface tension can selectively activate either actin or integrin flows, leading to bifurcating cell migration modes: focal adhesion formation that enables cell crawling at convex front edges and actin cable assembly that pulls cells forward at concave front edges. The molecular flows and curved front morphogenesis are sustained by coordinated cellular tension generation and transmission. We track the molecular flows and mechanical force transduction pathways by a phase-field model, which predicts that multicellular curvature sensing is more efficient than individual cells, suggesting collective intelligence of cells. The unique ability of cells in curvature sensing and migration mode bifurcating may offer insights into emergent collective patterns and functions of living active systems at different length scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyi Feng
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Tiankai Zhao
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Hongmei Xu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Xuechen Shi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Changhao Li
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - K Jimmy Hsia
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Sulin Zhang
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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3
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Tahir Z, Craven C. Gastrulation and Split Cord Malformation. Adv Tech Stand Neurosurg 2023; 47:1-23. [PMID: 37640870 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34981-2_1] [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: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Split cord malformation (SCM) is a rare form of closed spinal dysraphism, in which two hemi-cords are present, instead of a single spinal cord. SCM is categorised into type 1 and type 2. Type 1 SCM is defined by the presence of a bony or osseocartilaginous spur between the hemi-cords, whereas type 2 SCM has no bony spur, and the two hemi-cords are contained within a single dura. In this chapter, we present the putative mechanisms by which SCM arises, including gastrulation defects and Pang's unified theory. The typical and rare clinical presentations and variations are described. Finally, we outline the step-by-step surgical approach to both SCM 1 and 2 and the overall prognosis of both conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zubair Tahir
- Great Ormond Street Children Hospital, London, UK.
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4
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Molè MA, Galea GL, Copp AJ. Live-Imaging Analysis of Epithelial Zippering During Mouse Neural Tube Closure. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2608:147-162. [PMID: 36653707 PMCID: PMC7614165 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2887-4_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Zippering is a phenomenon of tissue morphogenesis whereby fusion between opposing epithelia progresses unidirectionally over significant distances, similar to the travel of a zip fastener, to ultimately ensure closure of an opening. A comparable process can be observed during Drosophila dorsal closure and mammalian wound healing, while zippering is employed by numerous organs such as the optic fissure, palatal shelves, tracheoesophageal foregut, and presumptive genitalia to mediate tissue sealing during normal embryonic development. Particularly striking is zippering propagation during neural tube morphogenesis, where the fusion point travels extensively along the embryonic axis to ensure closure of the neural tube. Advances in time-lapse microscopy and culture conditions have opened the opportunity for successful imaging of whole-mouse embryo development over time, providing insights into the precise cellular behavior underlying zippering propagation. Studies in mouse and the ascidian Ciona have revealed the fine-tuned cell shape changes and junction remodeling which occur at the site of zippering during neural tube morphogenesis. Here, we describe a step-by-step method for imaging at single-cell resolution the process of zippering and tissue remodeling which occurs during closure of the spinal neural tube in mouse. We also provide instructions and suggestions for quantitative morphometric analysis of cell behavior during zippering progression. This procedure can be further combined with genetic mutant models (e.g., knockouts), offering the possibility of studying the dynamics of tissue fusion and zippering propagation, which underlie a wide range of open neural tube defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo A Molè
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gabriel L Galea
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Comparative Bioveterinary Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK
| | - Andrew J Copp
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
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5
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Abstract
Gap closure to eliminate physical discontinuities and restore tissue integrity is a fundamental process in normal development and repair of damaged tissues and organs. Here, we demonstrate a nonadhesive gap closure model in which collective cell migration, large-scale actin-network fusion, and purse-string contraction orchestrate to restore the gap. Proliferative pressure drives migrating cells to attach onto the gap front at which a pluricellular actin ring is already assembled. An actin-ring segment switching process then occurs by fusion of actin fibers from the newly attached cells into the actin cable and defusion from the previously lined cells, thereby narrowing the gap. Such actin-cable segment switching occurs favorably at high curvature edges of the gap, yielding size-dependent gap closure. Cellular force microscopies evidence that a persistent rise in the radial component of inward traction force signifies successful actin-cable segment switching. A kinetic model that integrates cell proliferation, actin fiber fusion, and purse-string contraction is formulated to quantitatively account for the gap-closure dynamics. Our data reveal a previously unexplored mechanism in which cells exploit multifaceted strategies in a highly cooperative manner to close nonadhesive gaps.
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6
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Abstract
Spinal dysraphism is an umbrella term that encompasses a number of congenital malformations that affect the central nervous system. The etiology of these conditions can be traced back to a specific defect in embryological development, with the more disabling malformations occurring at an earlier gestational age. A thorough understanding of the relevant neuroembryology is imperative for clinicians to select the correct treatment and prevent complications associated with spinal dysraphism. This paper will review the neuroembryology associated with the various forms of spinal dysraphism and provide a clinical-pathological correlation for these congenital malformations.
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7
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Pei P, Cheng X, Yu J, Shen J, Li X, Wu J, Wang S, Zhang T. Folate deficiency induced H2A ubiquitination to lead to downregulated expression of genes involved in neural tube defects. Epigenetics Chromatin 2019; 12:69. [PMID: 31722724 PMCID: PMC6852770 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-019-0312-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects (NTDs) are common congenital malformations resulting in failure of the neural tube closure during early embryonic development. Although it is known that maternal folate deficiency increases the risk of NTDs, the mechanism remains elusive. RESULTS Herein, we report that histone H2A monoubiquitination (H2AK119ub1) plays a role in neural tube closure. We found that the folate antagonist methotrexate induced H2AK119ub1 in mouse embryonic stem cells. We demonstrated that an increase in H2AK119ub1 downregulated expression of the neural tube closure-related genes Cdx2, Nes, Pax6, and Gata4 in mouse embryonic stem cells under folate deficiency conditions. We also determined that the E3 ligase Mdm2 was responsible for the methotrexate-induced increase in H2AK119ub1 and downregulation of neural tube closure-related genes. Surprisingly, we found that Mdm2 is required for MTX-induced H2A ubiquitination and is recruited to the sites of DSB, which is dependent on DNA damage signaling kinase ATM. Furthermore, folic acid supplementation restored H2AK119ub1 binding to neural tube closure-related genes. Downregulation of these genes was also observed in both brain tissue of mouse and human NTD cases, and high levels of H2AK119ub1 were found in the corresponding NTDs samples with their maternal serum folate under low levels. Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant negative correlation between expression of the neural precursor genes and H2AK119ub1. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that folate deficiency contributes to the onset of NTDs by altering H2AK119ub1 and subsequently affecting expression of neural tube closure-related genes. This may be a potential risk factor for NTDs in response to folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Pei
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Xiyue Cheng
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.,Graduate Schools of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Juan Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Jinying Shen
- School of Engineering Technology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, 519085, Guangdong, China
| | - Xue Li
- School of Clinical Medical, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, China
| | - Jianxin Wu
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Shan Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China. .,Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China. .,Graduate Schools of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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8
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Siva plays a critical role in mouse embryonic development. Cell Death Differ 2019; 27:297-309. [PMID: 31164717 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0358-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Siva protein, named after the Hindu God of Destruction, plays important roles in apoptosis in various contexts, including downstream of death receptor activation or p53 tumor suppressor engagement. The function of Siva in organismal development and homeostasis, however, has remained uncharacterized. Here, we generate Siva knockout mice to characterize the physiological function of Siva in vivo. Interestingly, we find that Siva deficiency causes early embryonic lethality accompanied by multiple phenotypes, including developmental delay, abnormal neural tube closure, and defective placenta and yolk sac formation. Examination of Siva expression during embryogenesis shows that Siva is expressed in both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues, including within the mesoderm, which may explain the vascular defects observed in the placenta and yolk sac. The embryonic phenotypes caused by Siva loss are not rescued by p53 deficiency, nor do they resemble those of p53 null embryos, suggesting that the embryonic function of Siva is not related to the p53 pathway. Moreover, loss of the Ripk3 necroptosis protein does not rescue the observed lethality or developmental defects, suggesting that Siva may play a non-apoptotic role in development. Collectively, these studies reveal a key role for Siva in proper embryonic development.
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9
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Stigson M, Kultima K, Jergil M, Scholz B, Alm H, Gustafson AL, Dencker L. Molecular Targets and Early Response Biomarkers for the Prediction of Developmental Toxicity In Vitro. Altern Lab Anim 2019; 35:335-42. [PMID: 17650952 DOI: 10.1177/026119290703500313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There is an urgent need for new in vitro methods to predict the potential developmental toxicity of candidate drugs in the early lead identification and optimisation process. This would lead to a reduction in the total number of animals required in full-scale developmental toxicology studies, and would improve the efficiency of drug development. However, suitable in vitro systems permitting robust high-throughput screening for this purpose, for the most part, remain to be designed. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in developmental toxicity may be essential for the validation of in vitro tests. Early response biomarkers — even a single one — could contribute to reducing assay time and facilitating automation. The use of toxicogenomics approaches to study in vitro and in vivo models in parallel may be a powerful tool in defining such mechanisms of action and the molecular targets of toxicity, and also for use in finding possible biomarkers of early response. Using valproic acid as a model substance, the use of DNA microarrays to identify teratogen-responsive genes in cell models is discussed. It is concluded that gene expression in P19 mouse embryocarcinoma cells represents a potentially suitable assay system, which could be readily used in a tiered testing system for developmental toxicity testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Stigson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Toxicology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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10
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Chen C, Riley RT, Wu F. Dietary Fumonisin and Growth Impairment in Children and Animals: A Review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2018; 17:1448-1464. [DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition; Michigan State Univ.; East Lansing MI 48824 U.S.A
- Inst. of Quality Standards and Testing Technology for Agro-Products; Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Beijing 100081 China
| | - Ronald T. Riley
- Dept. of Environmental Health Science; Univ. of Georgia; Athens GA 30602 U.S.A
| | - Felicia Wu
- Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition; Michigan State Univ.; East Lansing MI 48824 U.S.A
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11
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Kakavandi NR, Hasanvand A, Ghazi-Khansari M, Sezavar AH, Nabizadeh H, Parohan M. Maternal dietary nitrate intake and risk of neural tube defects: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 118:287-293. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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12
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Fang Y, Zhang R, Zhi X, Zhao L, Cao L, Wang Y, Cai C. Association of main folate metabolic pathway gene polymorphisms with neural tube defects in Han population of Northern China. Childs Nerv Syst 2018; 34:725-729. [PMID: 29392422 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-018-3730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the most prevalent and the most severe congenital malformations worldwide. Studies have confirmed that folic acid supplementation could effectively reduce NTDs risk, but the genetic mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we explored association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) within folate metabolic pathway genes with NTDs in Han population of Northern China. METHODS We performed a case-control study to compare genotype and allele distributions of SNPs in 152 patients with NTDs and 169 controls. A total of 16 SNPs within five genes were genotyped by the Sequenom MassARRAY assay. RESULTS Our results indicated that three SNPs associated significantly with NTDs (P<0.05). For rs2236225 within MTHFD1, children with allele A or genotype AA had a high NTDs risk (OR=1.500, 95%CI=1.061~2.120; OR=2.862, 95%CI=1.022~8.015, respectively). For rs1801133 within MTHFR, NTDs risk markedly increased in patients with allele T or genotype TT (OR=1.552, 95%CI=1.130~2.131; OR=2.344, 95%CI=1.233~4.457, respectively). For rs1801394 within MTRR, children carrying allele G and genotype GG had a higher NTDs risk (OR=1.533, 95%CI=1.102~2.188; OR=2.355, 95%CI=1.044~5.312, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that rs2236225 of MTHFD1 gene, rs1801133 of MTHFR gene and rs1801394 of MTRR gene were associated with NTDs in Han population of Northern China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulian Fang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Beichen District, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruiping Zhang
- Graduate College of Tianjin Medical University, Heping District, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiufang Zhi
- Graduate College of Tianjin Medical University, Heping District, Tianjin, China
| | - Linsheng Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Beichen District, Tianjin, China
| | - Lirong Cao
- Graduate College of Tianjin Medical University, Heping District, Tianjin, China
| | - Yizheng Wang
- Graduate College of Tianjin Medical University, Heping District, Tianjin, China
| | - Chunquan Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tianjin Children's Hospital, Beichen District, Tianjin, China.
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13
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Khan MSI, Nabeka H, Islam F, Shimokawa T, Saito S, Li X, Kawabe S, Hamada F, Tachibana T, Matsuda S. Early neonatal loss of inhibitory synaptic input to the spinal motor neurons confers spina bifida-like leg dysfunction in a chicken model. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:1421-1432. [PMID: 28982681 PMCID: PMC5769610 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.031054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Spina bifida aperta (SBA), one of the most common congenital malformations, causes lifelong neurological complications, particularly in terms of motor dysfunction. Fetuses with SBA exhibit voluntary leg movements in utero and during early neonatal life, but these disappear within the first few weeks after birth. However, the pathophysiological sequence underlying such motor dysfunction remains unclear. Additionally, because important insights have yet to be obtained from human cases, an appropriate animal model is essential. Here, we investigated the neuropathological mechanisms of progression of SBA-like motor dysfunctions in a neural tube surgery-induced chicken model of SBA at different pathogenesis points ranging from embryonic to posthatch ages. We found that chicks with SBA-like features lose voluntary leg movements and subsequently exhibit lower-limb paralysis within the first 2 weeks after hatching, coinciding with the synaptic change-induced disruption of spinal motor networks at the site of the SBA lesion in the lumbosacral region. Such synaptic changes reduced the ratio of inhibitory-to-excitatory inputs to motor neurons and were associated with a drastic loss of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inputs and upregulation of the cholinergic activities of motor neurons. Furthermore, most of the neurons in ventral horns, which appeared to be suffering from excitotoxicity during the early postnatal days, underwent apoptosis. However, the triggers of cellular abnormalization and neurodegenerative signaling were evident in the middle- to late-gestational stages, probably attributable to the amniotic fluid-induced in ovo milieu. In conclusion, we found that early neonatal loss of neurons in the ventral horn of exposed spinal cord affords novel insights into the pathophysiology of SBA-like leg dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sakirul Islam Khan
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan .,Department of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Hiroaki Nabeka
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan
| | - Farzana Islam
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Shimokawa
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan
| | - Shouichiro Saito
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Yanagido, Gifu 501-1128, Japan
| | - Xuan Li
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan
| | - Soichiro Kawabe
- Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, Katsuyama, Fukui 911-8601, Japan
| | - Fumihiko Hamada
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Oita 879-5593, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tachibana
- Department of Agrobiological Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Ehime University, Matsuyama 790-8566, Japan
| | - Seiji Matsuda
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime University, Toon 791-0295, Ehime, Japan
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14
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Mohd-Zin SW, Marwan AI, Abou Chaar MK, Ahmad-Annuar A, Abdul-Aziz NM. Spina Bifida: Pathogenesis, Mechanisms, and Genes in Mice and Humans. SCIENTIFICA 2017; 2017:5364827. [PMID: 28286691 PMCID: PMC5327787 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5364827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/01/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Spina bifida is among the phenotypes of the larger condition known as neural tube defects (NTDs). It is the most common central nervous system malformation compatible with life and the second leading cause of birth defects after congenital heart defects. In this review paper, we define spina bifida and discuss the phenotypes seen in humans as described by both surgeons and embryologists in order to compare and ultimately contrast it to the leading animal model, the mouse. Our understanding of spina bifida is currently limited to the observations we make in mouse models, which reflect complete or targeted knockouts of genes, which perturb the whole gene(s) without taking into account the issue of haploinsufficiency, which is most prominent in the human spina bifida condition. We thus conclude that the need to study spina bifida in all its forms, both aperta and occulta, is more indicative of the spina bifida in surviving humans and that the measure of deterioration arising from caudal neural tube defects, more commonly known as spina bifida, must be determined by the level of the lesion both in mouse and in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti W. Mohd-Zin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ahmed I. Marwan
- Laboratory for Fetal and Regenerative Biology, Colorado Fetal Care Center, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 E 17th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | | | - Azlina Ahmad-Annuar
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noraishah M. Abdul-Aziz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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15
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Wu X, Majumder A, Webb R, Stice SL. High content imaging quantification of multiple in vitro human neurogenesis events after neurotoxin exposure. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 17:62. [PMID: 27903287 PMCID: PMC5131404 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-016-0107-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Our objective was to test neural active compounds in a human developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) model that represents neural tube stages of vulnerability. Previously we showed that 14 days in vitro (DIV 14) was sufficient to generate cryopreserved neuronal cells for post thaw neurite recovery assays. However, short exposure and assessment may not detect toxicants that affect an early neurogenesis continuum, from a mitotic human neural progenitor (hNP) cell population through the course of neurite outgrowth in differentiating neurons. Therefore, we continuously exposed differentiating hNP cells from DIV 0 through DIV 14 to known toxicants and endocrine active compounds in order to assess at DIV 14 effects of these compounds in a human DNT maturation model for neurogenesis. Methods The Human DNT continuum (DIV 0 to DIV 14) was determined using immunocytochemistry for SOX1+ (proliferating hNP) and HuC/D+ (post mitotic neurons). The cumulative effects of five compounds was observed on neurite outgrowth in (βIII-tubulin+) and (HuC/D+) cells using high content imaging. All data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results During maturation in vitro, the neural cultures transitioned from uniform hNP cells (DIV 0) to predominantly mature post mitotic neuronal neurons (HuC/D+, 65%; DIV14) but also maintained a smaller population of hNP cells (SOX1+). Using this DNT maturation model system, Bis-1, testosterone, and β-estradiol inhibited neuronal maturation at micromolar levels but were unaffected by acetaminophen. β-estradiol also disrupted neurite extension at 10 μM. Treating cells in this window with Bisphenol A (BPA) significantly inhibited neurite outgrowth and branching in these continuum cultures but only at the highest concentrations tested (10 μM). Conclusions Cumulative effects of neurotoxicant exposure during a maturation continuum altered human neurogenesis at lower exposure levels than observed in acute exposure of static cryopreserved neurite recovery neurons cultures. Unlike prior acute studies, β-estradiol was highly toxic when present throughout the continuum and cytotoxicity was manifested starting early in the continuum via a non-estrogen receptor α (ER α) mechanism. Therefore, the effect of neural developmental neurotoxins can and should be determined during the dynamic process of human neural maturation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40360-016-0107-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Wu
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | | | - Robin Webb
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Steven L Stice
- Interdisciplinary Toxicology Program, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA. .,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA. .,ArunA Biomedical, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
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Ray HJ, Niswander LA. Grainyhead-like 2 downstream targets act to suppress epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition during neural tube closure. Development 2016; 143:1192-204. [PMID: 26903501 DOI: 10.1242/dev.129825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The transcription factor grainyhead-like 2 (GRHL2) is expressed in non-neural ectoderm (NNE) and Grhl2 loss results in fully penetrant cranial neural tube defects (NTDs) in mice. GRHL2 activates expression of several epithelial genes; however, additional molecular targets and functional processes regulated by GRHL2 in the NNE remain to be determined, as well as the underlying cause of the NTDs in Grhl2 mutants. Here, we find that Grhl2 loss results in abnormal mesenchymal phenotypes in the NNE, including aberrant vimentin expression and increased cellular dynamics that affects the NNE and neural crest cells. The resulting loss of NNE integrity contributes to an inability of the cranial neural folds to move toward the midline and results in NTD. Further, we identified Esrp1, Sostdc1, Fermt1, Tmprss2 and Lamc2 as novel NNE-expressed genes that are downregulated in Grhl2 mutants. Our in vitro assays show that they act as suppressors of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Thus, GRHL2 promotes the epithelial nature of the NNE during the dynamic events of neural tube formation by both activating key epithelial genes and actively suppressing EMT through novel downstream EMT suppressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather J Ray
- Department of Pediatrics, Cell Biology Stem Cells and Development Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Lee A Niswander
- Department of Pediatrics, Cell Biology Stem Cells and Development Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Radouani MA, Chahid N, Benmiloud L, Elammari L, Lahlou K, Barkat A. [Epidemiology and risk factors of the closing neural tube defects: Moroccan data]. Pan Afr Med J 2015; 22:43. [PMID: 26664544 PMCID: PMC4662508 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2015.22.43.5158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Les anomalies de fermeture du tube neural sont des défauts congénitaux de la formation du système nerveux central. L'incidence varie entre 3 et 40 cas pour 10000 dans le monde. Il existe des facteurs de risque de survenue de cette affection. La prévention reste un élément important dans la prise en charge. L'objectif de ceete étude est d’étudier les paramètres sociodémographiques, maternels, obstétricaux et néonatals des anomalies de fermeture du tube neural et analyser les facteurs de risque responsables dans notre contexte. Méthodes Etude prospective cas-témoin sur 4 ans. Ont été recrutés tous les cas portant une malformation du tube neural isolée ou associée à d'autres malformations. Les données maternelles, obstétricales et néonatales ont été enregistrées. L'analyse statistique était réalisée par le biais d'un logiciel de statistiques SPSS version 17.0 pour Windows. Résultats Soixante huit cas ont été inclus. Quatre-vingts cinq pour cent des malformations étaient isolées. L'anencéphalie était l'anomalie la plus retrouvée (67%). L’âge maternel moyen était 31,03±7,50 ans. La consanguinité parentale était notée dans 9 cas. Un niveau socio-économique bas et un non suivi des grossesses ont été rapportés dans 29% des cas. L’étude a retrouvé des antécédents de mort-nés et de morts néonatales dans 4% des cas. La consommation de Fenugrec était significativement associée aux malformations du tube neural et a été retrouvée dans 8 cas contre 1 cas dans le groupe sain. La voie haute d'accouchement était utilisée dans 29% des cas. L’âge gestationnel moyen était de 35,55±4,16 semaines d'aménorrhée. Il n'y avait pas de prédominance de sexe. On avait noté une relation significative entre les malformations du tube neural et l'avènement d'une asphyxie périnatale, 15 cas présentaient un apgar à 0 à la première minute et 12 cas un apgar inférieur à 7 à la cinquième minute. Conclusion Le bas niveau socio-économique, le non suivi des grossesses et la consommation maternelle de fenugrec en période gestationnelle étaient des facteurs prédictifs de développement d'anomalies du tube neural dans notre contexte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Amine Radouani
- Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc ; Equipe de Recherche en Santé et Nutrition du Couple Mère Enfant, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Souissi, Maroc
| | - Naima Chahid
- Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc ; Equipe de Recherche en Santé et Nutrition du Couple Mère Enfant, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Souissi, Maroc
| | - Loubna Benmiloud
- Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc ; Equipe de Recherche en Santé et Nutrition du Couple Mère Enfant, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Souissi, Maroc
| | - Laila Elammari
- Ministère de la Santé, Direction de la population, Maroc Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc
| | - Khalid Lahlou
- Ministère de la Santé, Direction de la population, Maroc Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc
| | - Amina Barkat
- Service de Médecine et Réanimation Néonatales, Centre National de Néonatologie et Nutrition, Hôpital d'Enfants, Centre Hospitalier Ibn Sina, bd Ibn Rochd, Souissi 10100, Rabat, Maroc ; Equipe de Recherche en Santé et Nutrition du Couple Mère Enfant, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Souissi, Maroc
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Kawaharada K, Kawamata M, Ochiya T. Rat embryonic stem cells create new era in development of genetically manipulated rat models. World J Stem Cells 2015; 7:1054-1063. [PMID: 26328021 PMCID: PMC4550629 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v7.i7.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryonic stem (ES) cells are isolated from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst, and are used for the generation of gene-modified animals. In mice, the transplantation of gene-modified ES cells into recipient blastocysts leads to the creation of gene-targeted mice such as knock-in and knock-out mice; these gene-targeted mice contribute greatly to scientific development. Although the rat is considered a useful laboratory animal alongside the mouse, fewer gene-modified rats have been produced due to the lack of robust establishment methods for rat ES cells. A new method for establishing rat ES cells using signaling inhibitors was reported in 2008. By considering the characteristics of rat ES cells, recent research has made progress in improving conditions for the stable culture of rat ES cells in order to generate gene-modified rats efficiently. In this review, we summarize several advanced methods to maintain rat ES cells and generate gene-targeted rats.
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Abstract
Tissue fusion eliminates physical voids in a tissue to form a continuous structure and is central to many processes in development and repair. Fusion events in vivo, particularly in embryonic development, often involve the purse-string contraction of a pluricellular actomyosin cable at the free edge. However, in vitro, adhesion of the cells to their substrate favors a closure mechanism mediated by lamellipodial protrusions, which has prevented a systematic study of the purse-string mechanism. Here, we show that monolayers can cover well-controlled mesoscopic nonadherent areas much larger than a cell size by purse-string closure and that active epithelial fluctuations are required for this process. We have formulated a simple stochastic model that includes purse-string contractility, tissue fluctuations, and effective friction to qualitatively and quantitatively account for the dynamics of closure. Our data suggest that, in vivo, tissue fusion adapts to the local environment by coordinating lamellipodial protrusions and purse-string contractions.
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Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs), including spina bifida and anencephaly, are severe birth defects of the central nervous system that originate during embryonic development when the neural tube fails to close completely. Human NTDs are multifactorial, with contributions from both genetic and environmental factors. The genetic basis is not yet well understood, but several nongenetic risk factors have been identified as have possibilities for prevention by maternal folic acid supplementation. Mechanisms underlying neural tube closure and NTDs may be informed by experimental models, which have revealed numerous genes whose abnormal function causes NTDs and have provided details of critical cellular and morphological events whose regulation is essential for closure. Such models also provide an opportunity to investigate potential risk factors and to develop novel preventive therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas D E Greene
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Center, Institute of Child Health, University College London, WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom;
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21
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Norris FC, Siow BM, Cleary JO, Wells JA, De Castro SC, Ordidge RJ, Greene ND, Copp AJ, Scambler PJ, Alexander DC, Lythgoe MF. Diffusion microscopic MRI of the mouse embryo: Protocol and practical implementation in the splotch mouse model. Magn Reson Med 2015; 73:731-9. [PMID: 24634098 PMCID: PMC4737188 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Revised: 01/01/2014] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advanced methodologies for visualizing novel tissue contrast are essential for phenotyping the ever-increasing number of mutant mouse embryos being generated. Although diffusion microscopic MRI (μMRI) has been used to phenotype embryos, widespread routine use is limited by extended scanning times, and there is no established experimental procedure ensuring optimal data acquisition. METHODS We developed two protocols for designing experimental procedures for diffusion μMRI of mouse embryos, which take into account the effect of embryo preparation and pulse sequence parameters on resulting data. We applied our protocols to an investigation of the splotch mouse model as an example implementation. RESULTS The protocols provide DTI data in 24 min per direction at 75 μm isotropic using a three-dimensional fast spin-echo sequence, enabling preliminary imaging in 3 h (6 directions plus one unweighted measurement), or detailed imaging in 9 h (42 directions plus six unweighted measurements). Application to the splotch model enabled assessment of spinal cord pathology. CONCLUSION We present guidelines for designing diffusion μMRI experiments, which may be adapted for different studies and research facilities. As they are suitable for routine use and may be readily implemented, we hope they will be adopted by the phenotyping community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca C. Norris
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Mathematics and Physics in the Life Sciences and EXperimental Biology (CoMPLEX)University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Bernard M. Siow
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Computer ScienceUniversity College LondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Jon O. Cleary
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
- Department of Anatomy and NeuroscienceUniversity of MelbourneAustralia
| | - Jack A. Wells
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sandra C.P. De Castro
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Roger J. Ordidge
- Department of Anatomy and NeuroscienceUniversity of MelbourneAustralia
| | - Nicholas D.E. Greene
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Copp
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter J. Scambler
- Molecular Medicine Unit, UCL Institute of Child HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Daniel. C. Alexander
- Centre for Medical Image Computing, Departments of Medical Physics and Bioengineering and Computer ScienceUniversity College LondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Mark F. Lythgoe
- UCL Centre for Advanced Biomedical Imaging, Division of MedicineUniversity College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
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Zheng J, Lu X, Liu H, Zhao P, Li K, Li L. MTHFD1 polymorphism as maternal risk for neural tube defects: a meta-analysis. Neurol Sci 2014; 36:607-16. [PMID: 25502174 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-014-2035-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recently, the association between methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 (MTHFD1) G1958A polymorphism and neural tube defects (NTD) susceptibility has been widely investigated; however, the results remained inconclusive. Hence, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism on NTD. The relative literatures were identified by search of the electronic databases PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE. The extracted data were statistically analyzed, and pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the association strength using Stata version 11.0 software. Finally, ten studies met our inclusion criteria, including 2,132/4,082 in NTD infants and controls; 1,402/3,136 in mothers with NTD offspring and controls; and 993/2,879 in fathers with NTD offspring and controls. This meta-analysis showed that, compared with the mothers with GG genotype, the women with AA genotype had an increased risk of NTD in their offspring, with OR values and 95 % CI at 1.39 (1.16-1.68), p < 0.001. Interestingly, fathers with AG genotype had a significant decreased risk of NTD offspring (OR = 0.79, 95 % CI = 0.66-0.94, p = 0.009). However, there was no significant association between the MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism in NTD patients and the risk of NTD. In conclusion, the present meta-analysis provided evidence of the association between maternal MTHFD1 G1958A polymorphism and NTD susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyu Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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Nasri K, Ben Fradj MK, Hamdi T, Aloui M, Ben Jemaa N, Nahdi S, Guesmi R, Masmoudi A, Elmay MV, Marrakchi R, Siala Gaigi S. Epidemiology of neural tube defect subtypes in Tunisia, 1991–2011. Pathol Res Pract 2014; 210:944-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2014.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2013] [Revised: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Miller-Pinsler L, Wells PG. Deficient DNA repair exacerbates ethanol-initiated DNA oxidation and embryopathies in ogg1 knockout mice: gender risk and protection by a free radical spin trapping agent. Arch Toxicol 2014; 90:415-25. [DOI: 10.1007/s00204-014-1397-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Das D, Zalewski JK, Mohan S, Plageman TF, VanDemark AP, Hildebrand JD. The interaction between Shroom3 and Rho-kinase is required for neural tube morphogenesis in mice. Biol Open 2014; 3:850-60. [PMID: 25171888 PMCID: PMC4163662 DOI: 10.1242/bio.20147450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Shroom3 is an actin-associated regulator of cell morphology that is required for neural tube closure, formation of the lens placode, and gut morphogenesis in mice and has been linked to chronic kidney disease and directional heart looping in humans. Numerous studies have shown that Shroom3 likely regulates these developmental processes by directly binding to Rho-kinase and facilitating the assembly of apically positioned contractile actomyosin networks. We have characterized the molecular basis for the neural tube defects caused by an ENU-induced mutation that results in an arginine-to-cysteine amino acid substitution at position 1838 of mouse Shroom3. We show that this substitution has no effect on Shroom3 expression or localization but ablates Rock binding and renders Shroom3 non-functional for the ability to regulate cell morphology. Our results indicate that Rock is the major downstream effector of Shroom3 in the process of neural tube morphogenesis. Based on sequence conservation and biochemical analysis, we predict that the Shroom-Rock interaction is highly conserved across animal evolution and represents a signaling module that is utilized in a variety of biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debamitra Das
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Jenna K Zalewski
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Swarna Mohan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Timothy F Plageman
- College of Optometry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Andrew P VanDemark
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Hildebrand
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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Pelizzo G, Calcaterra V, Fusillo M, Nakib G, Ierullo AM, Alfei A, Spinillo A, Stronati M, Cena H. Malnutrition in pregnancy following bariatric surgery: three clinical cases of fetal neural defects. Nutr J 2014; 13:59. [PMID: 24929556 PMCID: PMC4071151 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2891-13-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Bariatric surgery results in decreased food intake and a variable degree of malabsorption. Without adequate supplementation, the most common complications of this surgery are nutritional disorders. Pregnancy following surgery for obesity is a particular condition requiring strict monitoring of nutrient intake necessary for fetal development and a favourable neonatal prognosis. Patients Malnutrition in pregnancy and congenital neural malformations are reported in three women who had previously undergone bariatric surgery (1, 5 and 18 years before pregnancy, respectively). Two patients underwent the Roux en Y bypass and one bilio-pancreatic diversion with gastroplasty. None of the three received pre-conceptional nutritional counselling. Patients 1 and 2 did not undergo postoperative nutritional surveillance; nutrient supplementation was started at 22 and 20 weeks gestation, respectively. In patient 3, supplementation was stopped at six weeks gestation. Results Newborns 1 and 2 presented with dorsal myelomeningocele and ventricular dilation. Both underwent surgery and a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt was inserted in the first month of life. Newborn 3 had microcephaly, bilateral microphthalmia and sensorineural deafness. Conclusions Diet and nutritional status, before and during pregnancy, play an important role in the early processes of fetal development and neonatal outcome. Women of childbearing age who have had bariatric surgery, should be encouraged to follow a well-balanced diet as part of a weight management strategy. They should be advised to take recommended maternal supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Pelizzo
- Department of Maternal and Children's Health, Pediatric Surgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo and University of Pavia, P,le Golgi 2, Pavia 27100, Italy.
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Massarwa R, Ray HJ, Niswander L. Morphogenetic movements in the neural plate and neural tube: mouse. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2013; 3:59-68. [DOI: 10.1002/wdev.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R'ada Massarwa
- Department of Molecular Genetics; The Weizmann Institute of Science; Rehovot Israel
| | - Heather J. Ray
- Department of Pediatrics, Cell Biology Stem Cells and Development Graduate Program; University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado; Aurora CO USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Department of Pediatrics, Cell Biology Stem Cells and Development Graduate Program; University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado; Aurora CO USA
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Yang M, Yang L, Qi L, Guo Y, Lin X, Zhang Y, Du Y. Association between the methionine synthase A2756G polymorphism and neural tube defect risk: a meta-analysis. Gene 2013; 520:7-13. [PMID: 23438943 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2012] [Revised: 12/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have accessed the association between methionine synthase (MTR) A2756G polymorphism and neural tube defect (NTD). However, the conclusions are inconsistent. Our study aimed to clarify the nature of the genetic risks contributed by this polymorphism for NTD using meta-analysis. We searched electronic literature from the PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline databases, from which 10 articles were selected according to the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was conducted in 3 groups, namely, NTD patients, mothers with NTD offspring and fathers with NTD offspring. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were used to evaluate the strength of the association and the result was corrected by multiple testing. To sum up, no associations between the MTR A2756G polymorphism and NTD risk were found among the 3 groups in all genetic models. However, as their sample size is not large enough, this result needs further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Yamaguchi Y, Miura M. How to form and close the brain: insight into the mechanism of cranial neural tube closure in mammals. Cell Mol Life Sci 2012; 70:3171-86. [PMID: 23242429 PMCID: PMC3742426 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1227-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Revised: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The development of the embryonic brain critically depends on successfully completing cranial neural tube closure (NTC). Failure to properly close the neural tube results in significant and potentially lethal neural tube defects (NTDs). We believe these malformations are caused by disruptions in normal developmental programs such as those involved in neural plate morphogenesis and patterning, tissue fusion, and coordinated cell behaviors. Cranial NTDs include anencephaly and craniorachischisis, both lethal human birth defects. Newly emerging methods for molecular and cellular analysis offer a deeper understanding of not only the developmental NTC program itself but also mechanical and kinetic aspects of closure that may contribute to cranial NTDs. Clarifying the underlying mechanisms involved in NTC and how they relate to the onset of specific NTDs in various experimental models may help us develop novel intervention strategies to prevent NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshifumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Genetics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, and CREST, JST, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
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Effects of choline on sodium arsenite-induced neural tube defects in chick embryos. Food Chem Toxicol 2012; 50:4364-74. [PMID: 22963837 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Ma Y, Bao Y, Li C, Jiao F, Xin H, Yuan Z. Correlation between spina bifida manifesta in fetal rats and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling. Neural Regen Res 2012; 7:2485-91. [PMID: 25337099 PMCID: PMC4200703 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.32.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal rat models with neural tube defects were established by injection with retinoic acid at 10 days after conception. The immunofluorescence assay and western blot analysis showed that the number of caspase-3 positive cells in myeloid tissues for spina bifida manifesta was increased. There was also increased phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, a member of the mitogen activated protein kinase family. The c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation level was positively correlated with caspase-3 expression in myeloid tissues for spina bifida manifesta. Experimental findings indicate that abnormal apoptosis is involved in retinoic acid-induced dominant spina bifida formation in fetal rats, and may be associated with the c-Jun N-terminal kinase signal transduction pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghuan Ma
- Department of Cancer, the 463 Hospital of Chinese PLA, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China ; Division of Health, Bureau of Guard, General Advisor Office of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100017, China
| | - Yongxin Bao
- Medical Department, the 463 Hospital of Chinese PLA, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Chenghao Li
- Department of Cancer, the 463 Hospital of Chinese PLA, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Fubin Jiao
- Division of Health, Bureau of Guard, General Advisor Office of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100017, China
| | - Hongjie Xin
- Medical Department, the 463 Hospital of Chinese PLA, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zhengwei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, Liaoning Province, China
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Abstract
Tissue fusion events during embryonic development are crucial for the correct formation and function of many organs and tissues, including the heart, neural tube, eyes, face and body wall. During tissue fusion, two opposing tissue components approach one another and integrate to form a continuous tissue; disruption of this process leads to a variety of human birth defects. Genetic studies, together with recent advances in the ability to culture developing tissues, have greatly enriched our knowledge of the mechanisms involved in tissue fusion. This review aims to bring together what is currently known about tissue fusion in several developing mammalian organs and highlights some of the questions that remain to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather J Ray
- HHMI, Department of Pediatrics, Cell Biology Stem Cells and Development Graduate Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Copp AJ, Greene NDE. Neural tube defects--disorders of neurulation and related embryonic processes. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2012; 2:213-27. [PMID: 24009034 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe congenital malformations affecting 1 in every 1000 pregnancies. 'Open' NTDs result from failure of primary neurulation as seen in anencephaly, myelomeningocele (open spina bifida), and craniorachischisis. Degeneration of the persistently open neural tube in utero leads to loss of neurological function below the lesion level. 'Closed' NTDs are skin-covered disorders of spinal cord structure, ranging from asymptomatic spina bifida occulta to severe spinal cord tethering, and usually traceable to disruption of secondary neurulation. 'Herniation' NTDs are those in which meninges, with or without brain or spinal cord tissue, become exteriorized through a pathological opening in the skull or vertebral column (e.g., encephalocele and meningocele). NTDs have multifactorial etiology, with genes and environmental factors interacting to determine individual risk of malformation. While over 200 mutant genes cause open NTDs in mice, much less is known about the genetic causation of human NTDs. Recent evidence has implicated genes of the planar cell polarity signaling pathway in a proportion of cases. The embryonic development of NTDs is complex, with diverse cellular and molecular mechanisms operating at different levels of the body axis. Molecular regulatory events include the bone morphogenetic protein and Sonic hedgehog pathways which have been implicated in control of neural plate bending. Primary prevention of NTDs has been implemented clinically following the demonstration that folic acid (FA), when taken as a periconceptional supplement, can prevent many cases. Not all NTDs respond to FA, however, and adjunct therapies are required for prevention of this FA-resistant category.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Copp
- Neural Development Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
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Wei X, Li H, Miao J, Zhou F, Liu B, Wu D, Li S, Wang L, Fan Y, Wang W, Yuan Z. Disturbed apoptosis and cell proliferation in developing neuroepithelium of lumbo‐sacral neural tubes in retinoic acid‐induced spina bifida aperta in rat. Int J Dev Neurosci 2012; 30:375-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2012.03.340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Jianing Miao
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Fenghua Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Bo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Di Wu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Shujing Li
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Lili Wang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Yang Fan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Weilin Wang
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Zhengwei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital MalformationShengjing HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
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Wang XW, Luo YL, Wang W, Zhang Y, Chen Q, Cheng YL. Association between MTHFR A1298C polymorphism and neural tube defect susceptibility: a metaanalysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012; 206:251.e1-7. [PMID: 22265089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2011.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Revised: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase A1298C polymorphism is associated with neural tube defect susceptibility. STUDY DESIGN Computerized literature searches of the PubMed, Embase, and Medline database were conducted to identify all eligible articles. Study subjects were classified as neural tube defect patients, mothers with neural tube defect offspring and fathers with neural tube defect offspring. The pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by fixed-effects model or random-effects model. RESULTS Twenty-three case-control studies were finally included. The pooled results showed no significant association between 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase A1298C polymorphism and neural tube defect susceptibility in any genetic contrast among the 3 groups, except 1 (AC vs AA in neural tube defect patients: odds ratio, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.10-1.32; P = .03), which, however, turned out to be of no statistical significance in the subgroup of the white population (odds ratio, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.98-1.31; P = .08). CONCLUSION This metaanalysis suggests that 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase A1298C polymorphism is not associated with neural tube defect susceptibility in the white population.
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Song G, Cui Y, Han ZJ, Xia HF, Ma X. WITHDRAWN: Effects of choline on sodium arsenite-induced neural tube defects in chick embryos. Food Chem Toxicol 2011:S0278-6915(11)00253-5. [PMID: 21708213 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2011.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 06/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This article has been withdrawn at the request of the author(s) and/or editor. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Song
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China; Department of Genetics, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
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38
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Oxidative stress is implicated in arsenic‐induced neural tube defects in chick embryos. Int J Dev Neurosci 2011; 29:673-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2011.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2011] [Revised: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Tsujimura R, Mominoki K, Kinutani M, Shimokawa T, Doihara T, Nabeka H, Wakisaka H, Kobayashi N, Matsuda S. Sensory tract abnormality in the chick model of spina bifida. Neurosci Res 2011; 71:85-91. [PMID: 21658418 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2011.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2011] [Revised: 05/17/2011] [Accepted: 05/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Spina bifida aperta (SBA) is an open neural tube defect that occurs during the embryonic period. We created SBA chicks by incising the roof plate of the neural tube in the embryo. The area of the dorsal funiculus was smaller in the SBA chicks than in the normal controls. Additionally, the SBA group had fewer nerve fibres in the dorsal funiculus than the normal controls. The pathway of the ascending sensory nerves was revealed by tracing the degenerated nerve fibres using osmification. We cut the sciatic nerve (L5) of the control and SBA chicks at the central end of the dorsal root ganglion 1 day after hatching and fixed the tissue 3 days later. Degenerated sensory nerve fibres were observed in the ipsilateral dorsal funiculus in the control chicks. In contrast, degenerated sensory nerve fibres were observed in the ipsilateral and contralateral dorsal, ventral and lateral funiculi of the spinal cord in the SBA chicks. Consequently, fewer sensory nerve fibres ascended to the thoracic dorsal funiculus in the SBA chicks than in the normal controls. This is the first report of abnormal changes in the ascending sensory nerve fibres in SBA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryusuke Tsujimura
- Department of Legal Medicine, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Ehime, Japan
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40
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Brouns MR, De Castro SCP, Terwindt-Rouwenhorst EA, Massa V, Hekking JW, Hirst CS, Savery D, Munts C, Partridge D, Lamers W, Köhler E, van Straaten HW, Copp AJ, Greene NDE. Over-expression of Grhl2 causes spina bifida in the Axial defects mutant mouse. Hum Mol Genet 2011; 20:1536-46. [PMID: 21262862 PMCID: PMC3063985 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddr031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cranial neural tube defects (NTDs) occur in mice carrying mutant alleles of many different genes, whereas isolated spinal NTDs (spina bifida) occur in fewer models, despite being common human birth defects. Spina bifida occurs at high frequency in the Axial defects (Axd) mouse mutant but the causative gene is not known. In the current study, the Axd mutation was mapped by linkage analysis. Within the critical genomic region, sequencing did not reveal a coding mutation whereas expression analysis demonstrated significant up-regulation of grainyhead-like 2 (Grhl2) in Axd mutant embryos. Expression of other candidate genes did not differ between genotypes. In order to test the hypothesis that over-expression of Grhl2 causes Axd NTDs, we performed a genetic cross to reduce Grhl2 function in Axd heterozygotes. Grhl2 loss of function mutant mice were generated and displayed both cranial and spinal NTDs. Compound heterozygotes carrying both loss (Grhl2 null) and putative gain of function (Axd) alleles exhibited normalization of spinal neural tube closure compared with Axd/+ littermates, which exhibit delayed closure. Grhl2 is expressed in the surface ectoderm and hindgut endoderm in the spinal region, overlapping with grainyhead-like 3 (Grhl3). Axd mutants display delayed eyelid closure, as reported in Grhl3 null embryos. Moreover, Axd mutant embryos exhibited increased ventral curvature of the spinal region and reduced proliferation in the hindgut, reminiscent of curly tail embryos, which carry a hypomorphic allele of Grhl3. Overall, our data suggest that defects in Axd mutant embryos result from over-expression of Grhl2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine R Brouns
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Maastricht University Medical Center, University of Maastricht, PO Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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41
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Wang M, Mominoki K, Kinutani M, Wang Z, Kobayashi N, Shimokawa T, Nabeka H, Fujiwara T, Matsuda S. Developmental delay in islet-1-positive motor neurons in chick spina bifida. J Vet Med Sci 2010; 73:447-52. [PMID: 21127393 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.10-0385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Spina bifida aperta (SBA) is a congenital malformation of the spinal cord with complications such as spinal ataxia and bowel and bladder dysfunction. We have developed a chick model with surgery-induced SBA that shows spinal ataxia after hatching. In the present study, motor neurons in the early stages in chicks with and without SBA were observed by immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal antibody against Islet-1, a motor neuron marker. Delay in migration and maturation of motor neurons was observed in SBA. Although the final numbers of Islet-1-positive neurons in these two groups were not different, a defect in the production and elimination of excess motor neurons in the early developmental stages in the SBA group may be involved in the pathological mechanism of the motor complications of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Ehime, Japan
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42
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Shum ASW, Tang LSC, Copp AJ, Roelink H. Lack of motor neuron differentiation is an intrinsic property of the mouse secondary neural tube. Dev Dyn 2010; 239:3192-203. [PMID: 20960561 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.22457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cranial part of the amniote neural tube is formed by folding and fusion of the ectoderm-derived neural plate (primary neurulation). After posterior neuropore closure, however, the caudal neural tube is formed by cavitation of tail bud mesenchyme (secondary neurulation). In mouse embryos, the secondary neural tube expresses several genes important in early patterning and induction, in restricted domains similar to the primary neural tube, yet it does not undergo neuronal differentiation, but subsequently degenerates. Although the secondary neural tube, isolated from surrounding tissues, is responsive to exogenous Sonic Hedgehog proteins in vitro, motor neuron differentiation is never observed. This cannot be attributed to the properties of the secondary notochord, since it is able to induce motor neuron differentiation in naive chick neural plate explants. Taken together, these results support that the lack of motor neuron differentiation is an intrinsic property of the mouse secondary neural tube.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa S W Shum
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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43
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Abstract
Nontumor lesions of the spinal cord and spine include developmental disorders, cystic tumor-like lesions, vascular disorders, infective diseases, demyelinating diseases, degenerative diseases, metabolic and toxic disorders, and spinal cord injury. In addition, diseases of the spine and extradural spaces secondarily cause spinal cord injury. Aside from tumors, these include developmental abnormalities, inflammatory diseases, nontumor space-occupying lesions, and tumor-like lesions such as lipomas, vascular malformations, and cysts. Awareness is required of hemostatic agents used during surgery and subsequently presenting as space-occupying lesions, which have to be differentiated from recurrent lesions. On the therapeutic front, stem cell transplantation into spinal cord for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis is a challenging prospect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medha Tatke
- Department of Pathology, G.B. Pant Hospital, New Delhi, India.
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44
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Paudyal A, Damrau C, Patterson VL, Ermakov A, Formstone C, Lalanne Z, Wells S, Lu X, Norris DP, Dean CH, Henderson DJ, Murdoch JN. The novel mouse mutant, chuzhoi, has disruption of Ptk7 protein and exhibits defects in neural tube, heart and lung development and abnormal planar cell polarity in the ear. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2010; 10:87. [PMID: 20704721 PMCID: PMC2930600 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-10-87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2010] [Accepted: 08/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The planar cell polarity (PCP) signalling pathway is fundamental to a number of key developmental events, including initiation of neural tube closure. Disruption of the PCP pathway causes the severe neural tube defect of craniorachischisis, in which almost the entire brain and spinal cord fails to close. Identification of mouse mutants with craniorachischisis has proven a powerful way of identifying molecules that are components or regulators of the PCP pathway. In addition, identification of an allelic series of mutants, including hypomorphs and neomorphs in addition to complete nulls, can provide novel genetic tools to help elucidate the function of the PCP proteins. Results We report the identification of a new N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU)-induced mutant with craniorachischisis, which we have named chuzhoi (chz). We demonstrate that chuzhoi mutant embryos fail to undergo initiation of neural tube closure, and have characteristics consistent with defective convergent extension. These characteristics include a broadened midline and reduced rate of increase of their length-to-width ratio. In addition, we demonstrate disruption in the orientation of outer hair cells in the inner ear, and defects in heart and lung development in chuzhoi mutants. We demonstrate a genetic interaction between chuzhoi mutants and both Vangl2Lp and Celsr1Crsh mutants, strengthening the hypothesis that chuzhoi is involved in regulating the PCP pathway. We demonstrate that chuzhoi maps to Chromosome 17 and carries a splice site mutation in Ptk7. This mutation results in the insertion of three amino acids into the Ptk7 protein and causes disruption of Ptk7 protein expression in chuzhoi mutants. Conclusions The chuzhoi mutant provides an additional genetic resource to help investigate the developmental basis of several congenital abnormalities including neural tube, heart and lung defects and their relationship to disruption of PCP. The chuzhoi mutation differentially affects the expression levels of the two Ptk7 protein isoforms and, while some Ptk7 protein can still be detected at the membrane, chuzhoi mutants demonstrate a significant reduction in membrane localization of Ptk7 protein. This mutant provides a useful tool to allow future studies aimed at understanding the molecular function of Ptk7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anju Paudyal
- MRC Harwell, Mammalian Genetics Unit, Harwell, Oxon OX11 0RD, UK
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45
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Abstract
Anencephaly results from defects in neural tube closure early in gestation and, to the authors' knowledge, has not been reported in dogs. In this case, the canine fetus was stillborn at the 62nd day of gestation and had a hypoplastic calvarium, with flattened base of the skull and shallow orbits, causing protrusion of the eyes. Macroscopically, the brain was completely missing. Histologically, well-differentiated nerve fibers, fragments of cerebellar folia, and ganglia with large neurons and glial cells were detected in a loose stroma in sections through the cranial bone and adjacent soft tissue in the rudimentary cranial cavity. Immunohistochemically, single cells within the stroma expressed NeuN, consistent with mature neurons, whereas intracranial ganglion cells and nerves had mild expression of doublecortin. The presence of many immature, and only a few mature, neurons in the rudimentary nerve tissue in this case indicates a failure of physiological brain development and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Huisinga
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - M. Reinacher
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - S. Nagel
- Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - C. Herden
- Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
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46
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Abstract
Congenital defects of neural tube closure (neural tube defects; NTDs) are among the commonest and most severe disorders of the fetus and newborn. Disturbance of any of the sequential events of embryonic neurulation produce NTDs, with the phenotype (eg anencephaly, spina bifida) varying depending on the region of neural tube that remains open. While mutation of > 200 genes is known to cause NTDs in mice, the pattern of occurrence in humans suggests a multifactorial polygenic or oligogenic aetiology. This emphasizes the importance of gene-gene and gene-environment interactions in the origins of these defects. A number of cell biological functions are essential for neural tube closure, with defects of the cytoskeleton, cell cycle and molecular regulation of cell viability prominent among the mouse NTD mutants. Many transcriptional regulators and proteins that affect chromatin structure are also required for neural tube closure, although the downstream molecular pathways regulated by these proteins is unknown. Some key signalling pathways for NTDs have been identified: over-activation of sonic hedgehog signalling and loss of function in the planar cell polarity (non-canonical Wnt) pathway are potent causes of NTD, with requirements also for retinoid and inositol signalling. Folic acid supplementation is an effective method for primary prevention of a proportion of NTDs in both humans and mice, although the embryonic mechanism of folate action remains unclear. Folic acid-resistant cases can be prevented by inositol supplementation in mice, raising the possibility that this could lead to an additional preventive strategy for human NTDs in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Copp
- Neural Development Unit, UCL Institute of Child Health, London WC1N 1EH, UK.
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47
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Coen M, Wevers RA, Lindon JC, Blom HJ. High-resolution 1H NMR spectroscopic investigation of a chick embryo model of neural tube development. MAGNETIC RESONANCE IN CHEMISTRY : MRC 2009; 47 Suppl 1:S62-S67. [PMID: 19862797 DOI: 10.1002/mrc.2534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
High-field (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy together with cryogenic probe capabilities have been applied to obtain metabolic profiles of chick embryos and to determine the suitability of the platform for profiling such mass-limited samples. Metabolic profiles were generated for both pooled and single embryo samples at early stages of neural development, using both 600 and 800 MHz (1)H NMR spectrometer platforms. High-resolution metabolic profiles, representing metabolites from many chemical classes, including triglycerides, organic acids, carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleosides, were rapidly acquired. Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe congenital malformations, and evidence exists for prevention of NTDs by periconceptional supplementation of the diet with folate. The molecular basis for the protective ability of folate in prevention of NTDs is not clear, although the involvement of methylation has been postulated. Thus, the metabolic profiles of chick embryos following inhibition of enzymes of the methylation cycle and the effect of their action on neural tube closure were investigated. The embryos were profiled at early stages of development, and closure of the neural tube was followed via digital imaging. Metabolic profiles of embryo samples representing both neural tube closure and the neural tube remaining open were discriminated; glucose levels were found to be significantly higher in methylation-inhibited samples. The application of a non-targeted metabolic profiling approach for the study of a chick embryo model of NTDs is novel and presents the exciting potential to provide metabolic insight necessary to elucidate the complex interplay of one-carbon moiety metabolism and NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muireann Coen
- Biomolecular Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Sir Alexander Fleming Building, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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48
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Abstract
This review provides a brief description of folate use and folic acid metabolism in relation to neural tube defect (NTD) risk. First, a meta-analysis of reduction in NTD recurrence and occurrence risk with periconceptional folic acid supplementation is presented. Second, an overview of the complex folate metabolism is given. Third, SNPs for genes involved in folate and homocysteine metabolism that have been studied in relation to NTD riskare discussed. Fourth, the questions whether folate receptor autoantibodies or hampered methylation are mechanisms underlying NTDs are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henk J Blom
- Metabolic Unit, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Free University Medical Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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49
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Blaas HGK, Eik-Nes SH. Sonoembryology and early prenatal diagnosis of neural anomalies. Prenat Diagn 2009; 29:312-25. [PMID: 19194866 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In the following review, the early development of the central nervous system (CNS), as described by embryologists and anatomists in modern embryological textbooks, is compared with sonoanatomic descriptions from two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound studies, week by week in the first trimester. The anatomic descriptions are limited to details that are of interest for the understanding of ultrasound examinations. Further, the detection of main CNS anomalies including spina bifida during the first trimester are presented and discussed. Empty or enlarged brain cavities, or abnormal contours of the head and spine are important diagnostic markers for the detection of CNS anomalies in the very early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-G K Blaas
- National Center for Fetal Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children's and Women's Health, University Hospital Trondheim, Norway.
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50
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Greene NDE, Copp AJ. Development of the vertebrate central nervous system: formation of the neural tube. Prenat Diagn 2009; 29:303-11. [PMID: 19206138 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The developmental process of neurulation involves a series of coordinated morphological events, which result in conversion of the flat neural plate into the neural tube, the primordium of the entire central nervous system (CNS). Failure of neurulation results in neural tube defects (NTDs), severe abnormalities of the CNS, which are among the commonest of congenital malformations in humans. In order to gain insight into the embryological basis of NTDs, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, it is necessary to understand the morphogenetic processes and molecular mechanisms underlying neural tube closure. The mouse is the most extensively studied mammalian experimental model for studies of neurulation, while considerable insight into underlying developmental mechanisms has also arisen from studies in other model systems, particularly birds and amphibians. We describe the process of neural tube formation, discuss the cellular mechanisms involved and highlight recent findings that provide links between molecular signaling pathways and morphogenetic tissue movements.
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