1
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Piszker W, Simunovic M. The fusion of physics and biology in early mammalian embryogenesis. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 160:31-64. [PMID: 38937030 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Biomechanics in embryogenesis is a dynamic field intertwining the physical forces and biological processes that shape the first days of a mammalian embryo. From the first cell fate bifurcation during blastulation to the complex symmetry breaking and tissue remodeling in gastrulation, mechanical cues appear critical in cell fate decisions and tissue patterning. Recent strides in mouse and human embryo culture, stem cell modeling of mammalian embryos, and biomaterial design have shed light on the role of cellular forces, cell polarization, and the extracellular matrix in influencing cell differentiation and morphogenesis. This chapter highlights the essential functions of biophysical mechanisms in blastocyst formation, embryo implantation, and early gastrulation where the interplay between the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix stiffness orchestrates the intricacies of embryogenesis and placenta specification. The advancement of in vitro models like blastoids, gastruloids, and other types of embryoids, has begun to faithfully recapitulate human development stages, offering new avenues for exploring the biophysical underpinnings of early development. The integration of synthetic biology and advanced biomaterials is enhancing the precision with which we can mimic and study these processes. Looking ahead, we emphasize the potential of CRISPR-mediated genomic perturbations coupled with live imaging to uncover new mechanosensitive pathways and the application of engineered biomaterials to fine-tune the mechanical conditions conducive to embryonic development. This synthesis not only bridges the gap between experimental models and in vivo conditions to advancing fundamental developmental biology of mammalian embryogenesis, but also sets the stage for leveraging biomechanical insights to inform regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter Piszker
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mijo Simunovic
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States; Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States.
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2
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Rosner M, Hengstschläger M. Oct4 controls basement membrane development during human embryogenesis. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1439-1456.e7. [PMID: 38579716 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Basement membranes (BMs) are sheet-like structures of extracellular matrix (ECM) that provide structural support for many tissues and play a central role in signaling. They are key regulators of cell behavior and tissue functions, and defects in their assembly or composition are involved in numerous human diseases. Due to the differences between human and animal embryogenesis, ethical concerns, legal constraints, the scarcity of human tissue material, and the inaccessibility of the in vivo condition, BM regulation during human embryo development has remained elusive. Using the post-implantation amniotic sac embryoid (PASE), we delineate BM assembly upon post-implantation development and BM disassembly during primitive streak (PS) cell dissemination. Further, we show that the transcription factor Oct4 regulates the expression of BM structural components and receptors and controls BM development by regulating Akt signaling and the small GTPase Rac1. These results represent a relevant step toward a more comprehensive understanding of early human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Rosner
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Center for Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Markus Hengstschläger
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Center for Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria.
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3
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Ghasemi Z, Alizadeh Mogadam Masouleh A, Rashki Ghaleno L, Akbarinejad V, Rezazadeh Valojerdi M, Shahverdi A. Maternal nutrition and fetal imprinting of the male progeny. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 265:107470. [PMID: 38657462 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The global population as well as the demand for human food is rapidly growing worldwide, which necessitates improvement of efficiency in livestock operations. In this context, environmental factors during fetal and/or neonatal life have been observed to influence normal physical and physiological function of an individual during adulthood, and this phenomenon is called fetal or developmental programming. While numerous studies have reported the impact of maternal factors on development of the female progeny, limited information is available on the potential effects of fetal programming on reproductive function of the male offspring. Therefore, the objective for this review article was to focus on available literature regarding the impact of maternal factors, particularly maternal nutrition, on reproductive system of the male offspring. To this end, we highlighted developmental programming of the male offspring in domestic species (i.e., pig, cow and sheep) as well as laboratory species (i.e., mice and rat) during pregnancy and lactation. In this sense, we pointed out the effects of maternal nutrition on various functions of the male offspring including hypothalamic-pituitary axis, hormonal levels, testicular tissue and semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahrasadat Ghasemi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Animal Core Facility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - AliReza Alizadeh Mogadam Masouleh
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Gyn-medicum, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Göttingen, Germany; Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Leila Rashki Ghaleno
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Rezazadeh Valojerdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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4
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Junyent S, Meglicki M, Vetter R, Mandelbaum R, King C, Patel EM, Iwamoto-Stohl L, Reynell C, Chen DY, Rubino P, Arrach N, Paulson RJ, Iber D, Zernicka-Goetz M. The first two blastomeres contribute unequally to the human embryo. Cell 2024; 187:2838-2854.e17. [PMID: 38744282 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Retrospective lineage reconstruction of humans predicts that dramatic clonal imbalances in the body can be traced to the 2-cell stage embryo. However, whether and how such clonal asymmetries arise in the embryo is unclear. Here, we performed prospective lineage tracing of human embryos using live imaging, non-invasive cell labeling, and computational predictions to determine the contribution of each 2-cell stage blastomere to the epiblast (body), hypoblast (yolk sac), and trophectoderm (placenta). We show that the majority of epiblast cells originate from only one blastomere of the 2-cell stage embryo. We observe that only one to three cells become internalized at the 8-to-16-cell stage transition. Moreover, these internalized cells are more frequently derived from the first cell to divide at the 2-cell stage. We propose that cell division dynamics and a cell internalization bottleneck in the early embryo establish asymmetry in the clonal composition of the future human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Junyent
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Maciej Meglicki
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Roman Vetter
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zürich, Basel 4058, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Mandelbaum
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Catherine King
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Ekta M Patel
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Lisa Iwamoto-Stohl
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Clare Reynell
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Dong-Yuan Chen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Patrizia Rubino
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | | | - Richard J Paulson
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Dagmar Iber
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE), ETH Zürich, Basel 4058, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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5
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Zernicki-Glover S, Stanislawska N, Patel EM, Kavanagh YH, Meglicki M. Blastomere size in the human 2-cell embryo predicts the division order that leads to imbalanced lineage contribution to the future body. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2024; 2024:10.17912/micropub.biology.001181. [PMID: 38841597 PMCID: PMC11151110 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.001181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Retrospective tracing of somatic mutations predicted that most cells in the human body could be traced back to a single cell of the 2-cell stage embryo. Accordingly, a recent prospective study of the developmental trajectory of blastomeres in human embryos confirmed that progeny of the first 2-cell stage blastomere to divide generates more epiblast cells (future body). How the 2-cell blastomeres differ is unknown. Here, we show that 2-cell stage blastomeres in human embryos are asymmetric; they differ in size and the bigger blastomere divides first to 4-cell stage. We propose that this asymmetry might originate differences in cell fate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ekta M. Patel
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, United States
| | - Yu Hua Kavanagh
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
| | - Maciej Meglicki
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
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6
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Azagury M, Buganim Y. Unlocking trophectoderm mysteries: In vivo and in vitro perspectives on human and mouse trophoblast fate induction. Dev Cell 2024; 59:941-960. [PMID: 38653193 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, the pursuit of inducing the trophoblast stem cell (TSC) state has gained prominence as a compelling research objective, illuminating the establishment of the trophoblast lineage and unlocking insights into early embryogenesis. In this review, we examine how advancements in diverse technologies, including in vivo time course transcriptomics, cellular reprogramming to TSC state, chemical induction of totipotent stem-cell-like state, and stem-cell-based embryo-like structures, have enriched our insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that define the mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC states. We delve into disparities between mouse and human trophectoderm/TSC fate establishment, with a special emphasis on the intriguing role of pluripotency in this context. Additionally, we re-evaluate recent findings concerning the potential of totipotent-stem-like cells and embryo-like structures to fully manifest the trophectoderm/trophoblast lineage's capabilities. Lastly, we briefly discuss the potential applications of induced TSCs in pregnancy-related disease modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meir Azagury
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Yosef Buganim
- Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research, The Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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7
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Zhao H, Kong F, Yu W, Zhao H, Zhang J, Zhou J, Meng X. Locational and functional characterization of PI4KB in the mouse embryo. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31195. [PMID: 38230579 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase beta (PI4KB) is a member of the PI4K family, which is mainly enriched and functions in the Golgi apparatus. The kinase domain of PI4KB catalyzes the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol to form phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate, a process that regulates various sub-cellular events, such as non-vesicular cholesterol and ceramide transport, protein glycosylation, and vesicle transport, as well as cytoplasmic division. In this study, a strain of PI4KB knockout mouse, immunofluorescence, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and microinjection were used to characterize the cytological location and biological function of PI4KB in the mouse embryos. we found that knocking down Pi4kb in mouse embryos resulted in embryonic lethality at around embryonic day (E) 7.5. Additionally, we observed dramatic fluctuations in PI4KB expression during the development of preimplantation embryos, with high expression in the 4-cell and morula stages. PI4KB colocalized with the Golgi marker protein TGN46 in the perinuclear and cytoplasmic regions in early blastomeres. Postimplantation, PI4KB was highly expressed in the epiblast of E7.5 embryos. Treatment of embryos with PI4KB inhibitors was found to inhibit the development of the morula into a blastocyst and the normal progression of cytoplasmic division during the formation of a 4-cell embryo. These findings suggest that PI4KB plays an important role in mouse embryogenesis by regulating various intracellular vital functions of embryonic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Zhao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Fengyun Kong
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Weikai Yu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Huijie Zhao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University & Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Model for Development and Disease of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoqian Meng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Centre for Cell Structure and Function, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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8
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Chea S, Kreger J, Lopez-Burks ME, MacLean AL, Lander AD, Calof AL. Gastrulation-stage gene expression in Nipbl+/- mouse embryos foreshadows the development of syndromic birth defects. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadl4239. [PMID: 38507484 PMCID: PMC10954218 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adl4239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
In animal models, Nipbl deficiency phenocopies gene expression changes and birth defects seen in Cornelia de Lange syndrome, the most common cause of which is Nipbl haploinsufficiency. Previous studies in Nipbl+/- mice suggested that heart development is abnormal as soon as cardiogenic tissue is formed. To investigate this, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on wild-type and Nipbl+/- mouse embryos at gastrulation and early cardiac crescent stages. Nipbl+/- embryos had fewer mesoderm cells than wild-type and altered proportions of mesodermal cell subpopulations. These findings were associated with underexpression of genes implicated in driving specific mesodermal lineages. In addition, Nanog was found to be overexpressed in all germ layers, and many gene expression changes observed in Nipbl+/- embryos could be attributed to Nanog overexpression. These findings establish a link between Nipbl deficiency, Nanog overexpression, and gene expression dysregulation/lineage misallocation, which ultimately manifest as birth defects in Nipbl+/- animals and Cornelia de Lange syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephenson Chea
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Jesse Kreger
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Martha E. Lopez-Burks
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Adam L. MacLean
- Department of Quantitative and Computational Biology, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Arthur D. Lander
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Anne L. Calof
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Center for Complex Biological Systems, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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9
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Rüegg AB, van der Weijden VA, de Sousa JA, von Meyenn F, Pausch H, Ulbrich SE. Developmental progression continues during embryonic diapause in the roe deer. Commun Biol 2024; 7:270. [PMID: 38443549 PMCID: PMC10914810 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05944-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryonic diapause in mammals is a temporary developmental delay occurring at the blastocyst stage. In contrast to other diapausing species displaying a full arrest, the blastocyst of the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) proliferates continuously and displays considerable morphological changes in the inner cell mass. We hypothesised that developmental progression also continues during this period. Here we evaluate the mRNA abundance of developmental marker genes in embryos during diapause and elongation. Our results show that morphological rearrangements of the epiblast during diapause correlate with gene expression patterns and changes in cell polarity. Immunohistochemical staining further supports these findings. Primitive endoderm formation occurs during diapause in embryos composed of around 3,000 cells. Gastrulation coincides with elongation and thus takes place after embryo reactivation. The slow developmental progression makes the roe deer an interesting model for unravelling the link between proliferation and differentiation and requirements for embryo survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna B Rüegg
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vera A van der Weijden
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
- Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - João Agostinho de Sousa
- ETH Zurich, Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ferdinand von Meyenn
- ETH Zurich, Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hubert Pausch
- ETH Zurich, Animal Genomics, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
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10
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Weatherbee BAT, Weberling A, Gantner CW, Iwamoto-Stohl LK, Barnikel Z, Barrie A, Campbell A, Cunningham P, Drezet C, Efstathiou P, Fishel S, Vindel SG, Lockwood M, Oakley R, Pretty C, Chowdhury N, Richardson L, Mania A, Weavers L, Christie L, Elder K, Snell P, Zernicka-Goetz M. Distinct pathways drive anterior hypoblast specification in the implanting human embryo. Nat Cell Biol 2024; 26:353-365. [PMID: 38443567 PMCID: PMC10940163 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-024-01367-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Development requires coordinated interactions between the epiblast, which generates the embryo proper; the trophectoderm, which generates the placenta; and the hypoblast, which forms both the anterior signalling centre and the yolk sac. These interactions remain poorly understood in human embryogenesis because mechanistic studies have only recently become possible. Here we examine signalling interactions post-implantation using human embryos and stem cell models of the epiblast and hypoblast. We find anterior hypoblast specification is NODAL dependent, as in the mouse. However, while BMP inhibits anterior signalling centre specification in the mouse, it is essential for its maintenance in human. We also find contrasting requirements for BMP in the naive pre-implantation epiblast of mouse and human embryos. Finally, we show that NOTCH signalling is important for human epiblast survival. Our findings of conserved and species-specific factors that drive these early stages of embryonic development highlight the strengths of comparative species studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey A T Weatherbee
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Perinatal Institute, Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Antonia Weberling
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- All Souls College, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Carlos W Gantner
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Lisa K Iwamoto-Stohl
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lucy Richardson
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, UK
| | | | | | | | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Fertility Clinic, Bourn, UK
| | | | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Stem Cells Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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11
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Chea S, Kreger J, Lopez-Burks ME, MacLean AL, Lander AD, Calof AL. Gastrulation-stage gene expression in Nipbl +/- mouse embryos foreshadows the development of syndromic birth defects. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.16.558465. [PMID: 37905011 PMCID: PMC10614802 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.16.558465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
In animal models, Nipbl-deficiency phenocopies gene expression changes and birth defects seen in Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), the most common cause of which is Nipbl-haploinsufficiency. Previous studies in Nipbl+/- mice suggested that heart development is abnormal as soon as cardiogenic tissue is formed. To investigate this, we performed single-cell RNA-sequencing on wildtype (WT) and Nipbl+/- mouse embryos at gastrulation and early cardiac crescent stages. Nipbl+/- embryos had fewer mesoderm cells than WT and altered proportions of mesodermal cell subpopulations. These findings were associated with underexpression of genes implicated in driving specific mesodermal lineages. In addition, Nanog was found to be overexpressed in all germ layers, and many gene expression changes observed in Nipbl+/- embryos could be attributed to Nanog overexpression. These findings establish a link between Nipbl-deficiency, Nanog overexpression, and gene expression dysregulation/lineage misallocation, which ultimately manifest as birth defects in Nipbl+/- animals and CdLS. Teaser Gene expression changes during gastrulation of Nipbl-deficient mice shed light on early origins of structural birth defects.
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12
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Wang C, Shi Z, Huang Q, Liu R, Su D, Chang L, Xiao C, Fan X. Single-cell analysis of isoform switching and transposable element expression during preimplantation embryonic development. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002505. [PMID: 38363809 PMCID: PMC10903961 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing is an essential regulatory mechanism for development and pathogenesis. Through alternative splicing one gene can encode multiple isoforms and be translated into proteins with different functions. Therefore, this diversity is an important dimension to understand the molecular mechanism governing embryo development. Isoform expression in preimplantation embryos has been extensively investigated, leading to the discovery of new isoforms. However, the dynamics of isoform switching of different types of transcripts throughout the development remains unexplored. Here, using single-cell direct isoform sequencing in over 100 single blastomeres from the mouse oocyte to blastocyst stage, we quantified isoform expression and found that 3-prime partial transcripts lacking stop codons are highly accumulated in oocytes and zygotes. These transcripts are not transcription by-products and might play a role in maternal to zygote transition (MZT) process. Long-read sequencing also enabled us to determine the expression of transposable elements (TEs) at specific loci. In this way, we identified 3,894 TE loci that exhibited dynamic changes along the preimplantation development, likely regulating the expression of adjacent genes. Our work provides novel insights into the transcriptional regulation of early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyang Wang
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuoxing Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingpei Huang
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Liu
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Dan Su
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Chang
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuanle Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Fan
- GMU-GIBH Joint School of Life Sciences, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The Bioland Laboratory (GuangZhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
- The Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
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13
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Stringa B, Solnica-Krezel L. Signaling mechanisms that direct cell fate specification and morphogenesis in human embryonic stem cells-based models of human gastrulation. Emerg Top Life Sci 2023; 7:383-396. [PMID: 38087898 DOI: 10.1042/etls20230084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
During mammalian gastrulation, a mass of pluripotent cells surrounded by extraembryonic tissues differentiates into germ layers, mesoderm, endoderm, and ectoderm. The three germ layers are then organized into a body plan with organ rudiments via morphogenetic gastrulation movements of emboly, epiboly, convergence, and extension. Emboly is the most conserved gastrulation movement, whereby mesodermal and endodermal progenitors undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and move via a blastopore/primitive streak beneath the ectoderm. Decades of embryologic, genetic, and molecular studies in invertebrates and vertebrates, delineated a BMP > WNT > NODAL signaling cascade underlying mesoderm and endoderm specification. Advances have been made in the research animals in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying gastrulation morphogenesis. In contrast, little is known about human gastrulation, which occurs in utero during the third week of gestation and its investigations face ethical and methodological limitations. This is changing with the unprecedented progress in modeling aspects of human development, using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including embryonic stem cells (hESC)-based embryo-like models (SCEMs). In one approach, hESCs of various pluripotency are aggregated to self-assemble into structures that resemble pre-implantation or post-implantation embryo-like structures that progress to early gastrulation, and some even reach segmentation and neurulation stages. Another approach entails coaxing hESCs with biochemical signals to generate germ layers and model aspects of gastrulation morphogenesis, such as EMT. Here, we review the recent advances in understanding signaling cascades that direct germ layers specification and the early stages of gastrulation morphogenesis in these models. We discuss outstanding questions, challenges, and opportunities for this promising area of developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blerta Stringa
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, U.S.A
| | - Lilianna Solnica-Krezel
- Department of Developmental Biology and Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63110, U.S.A
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14
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Zhang S, Zhou Y, Xiao G, Qiu X. Application of various genetic analysis techniques for detecting two rare cases of 9p duplication mosaicism during prenatal diagnosis. Mol Genet Genomic Med 2023; 11:e2229. [PMID: 37337789 PMCID: PMC10568385 DOI: 10.1002/mgg3.2229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of genetic mosaicism and the genetic counseling needed following its discovery have been challenging problems in the field of prenatal diagnosis. Herein, we describe the clinical phenotypes and various prenatal diagnostic processes used for two rare cases of 9p duplication mosaicism and review the prior literature in the field to evaluate the merits of different methods for diagnosing mosaic 9p duplication. METHODS We recorded ultrasound examinations, reported the screening and diagnosis pathways, and analyzed the mosaic levels of the two cases of 9p duplication using karyotype analysis, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis (FISH). RESULTS Case 1 had a normal clinical phenotype for tetrasomy 9p mosaicism, and Case 2 showed multiple malformations caused by both trisomy 9 and trisomy 9p mosaicism. Both cases were initially suspected after non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPT) based on cell-free DNA. The mosaic ratio of 9p duplication found via karyotyping was lower than what was discovered by CMA and FISH, in both cases. Contrary to previous findings, the mosaic level of trisomy 9 found by karyotype analysis was greater than what was found by CMA, in terms of complex mosaicism involving trisomy 9 and trisomy 9p, in Case 2. CONCLUSION NIPT can indicate 9p duplication mosaicism during prenatal screening. Different strengths and limitations existed in terms of diagnosing mosaic 9p duplication by karyotype analysis, CMA, and FISH. The combined use of various methods may be capable of more accurately determining break-points and mosaic levels of 9p duplication during prenatal diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sufen Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory (Institute of Medical Genetics)Zhuhai Center for Maternal and Child Health CareZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Yuqiu Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory (Institute of Medical Genetics)Zhuhai Center for Maternal and Child Health CareZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Gefei Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory (Institute of Medical Genetics)Zhuhai Center for Maternal and Child Health CareZhuhaiGuangdongChina
| | - Xianrong Qiu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory (Institute of Medical Genetics)Zhuhai Center for Maternal and Child Health CareZhuhaiGuangdongChina
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15
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Kim Y, Kim I, Shin K. A new era of stem cell and developmental biology: from blastoids to synthetic embryos and beyond. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2127-2137. [PMID: 37779144 PMCID: PMC10618288 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01097-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent discoveries in stem cell and developmental biology have introduced a new era marked by the generation of in vitro models that recapitulate early mammalian development, providing unprecedented opportunities for extensive research in embryogenesis. Here, we present an overview of current techniques that model early mammalian embryogenesis, specifically noting models created from stem cells derived from two significant species: Homo sapiens, for its high relevance, and Mus musculus, a historically common and technically advanced model organism. We aim to provide a holistic understanding of these in vitro models by tracing the historical background of the progress made in stem cell biology and discussing the fundamental underlying principles. At each developmental stage, we present corresponding in vitro models that recapitulate the in vivo embryo and further discuss how these models may be used to model diseases. Through a discussion of these models as well as their potential applications and future challenges, we hope to demonstrate how these innovative advances in stem cell research may be further developed to actualize a model to be used in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhee Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Inha Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Kunyoo Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Agostinho de Sousa J, Wong CW, Dunkel I, Owens T, Voigt P, Hodgson A, Baker D, Schulz EG, Reik W, Smith A, Rostovskaya M, von Meyenn F. Epigenetic dynamics during capacitation of naïve human pluripotent stem cells. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadg1936. [PMID: 37774033 PMCID: PMC10541016 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg1936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are of fundamental relevance in regenerative medicine. Naïve hPSCs hold promise to overcome some of the limitations of conventional (primed) hPSCs, including recurrent epigenetic anomalies. Naïve-to-primed transition (capacitation) follows transcriptional dynamics of human embryonic epiblast and is necessary for somatic differentiation from naïve hPSCs. We found that capacitated hPSCs are transcriptionally closer to postimplantation epiblast than conventional hPSCs. This prompted us to comprehensively study epigenetic and related transcriptional changes during capacitation. Our results show that CpG islands, gene regulatory elements, and retrotransposons are hotspots of epigenetic dynamics during capacitation and indicate possible distinct roles of specific epigenetic modifications in gene expression control between naïve and primed hPSCs. Unexpectedly, PRC2 activity appeared to be dispensable for the capacitation. We find that capacitated hPSCs acquire an epigenetic state similar to conventional hPSCs. Significantly, however, the X chromosome erosion frequently observed in conventional female hPSCs is reversed by resetting and subsequent capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Agostinho de Sousa
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Chee-Wai Wong
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
| | - Ilona Dunkel
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Owens
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Philipp Voigt
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Adam Hodgson
- School of Biosciences, The Julia Garnham Centre, University of Sheffield, S10 2TN Sheffield, UK
| | - Duncan Baker
- Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Services, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, S5 7AU Sheffield, UK
| | - Edda G. Schulz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolf Reik
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1QR, UK
- Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
- Altos Labs Cambridge Institute of Science, Cambridge CB21 6GP, UK
| | - Austin Smith
- Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, EX4 4QD Exeter, UK
| | - Maria Rostovskaya
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Ferdinand von Meyenn
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, King’s College London, Guy’s Hospital, SE1 9RT London, UK
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17
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Horer S, Feichtinger M, Rosner M, Hengstschläger M. Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived In Vitro Gametogenesis and Synthetic Embryos-It Is Never Too Early for an Ethical Debate. Stem Cells Transl Med 2023; 12:569-575. [PMID: 37471266 PMCID: PMC10502567 DOI: 10.1093/stcltm/szad042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, 2 branches of the wide area of synthetic biology-in vitro gametogenesis and synthetic embryo development-have gained considerable attention. Rodent induced pluripotent stem cells derived via reprogramming of somatic cells can in vitro be differentiated into gametes to produce fertile offspring. And even synthetic embryos with organ progenitors were generated ex utero entirely from murine pluripotent stem cells. The use of these approaches in basic research, which is rightfully accompanied by an ethical discussion, will allow hitherto unattainable insights into the processes of the beginning of life. There is a broad international consensus that currently the application of these technologies in human-assisted reproduction must be considered to be unsafe and unethical. However, newspaper headlines also addressed the putatively resulting paradigm shift in human reproduction and thereby raised expectations in patients. Due to unsolved biological and technological obstacles, most scientists do not anticipate translation of any of these approaches into human reproductive medicine, if ever, for the next 10 years. Still, whereas the usage of synthetic embryos for reproductive purposes should be banned, in the context of in vitro-derived human gametes it is not too early to initiate the evaluation of the ethical implications, which could still remain assuming all technological hurdles can ever be cleared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Horer
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Center of Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Margit Rosner
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Center of Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Hengstschläger
- Institute of Medical Genetics, Center of Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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18
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Keuls RA, Finnell RH, Parchem RJ. Maternal metabolism influences neural tube closure. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2023; 34:539-553. [PMID: 37468429 PMCID: PMC10529122 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Changes in maternal nutrient availability due to diet or disease significantly increase the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs). Because the incidence of metabolic disease continues to rise, it is urgent that we better understand how altered maternal nutrient levels can influence embryonic neural tube development. Furthermore, primary neurulation occurs before placental function during a period of histiotrophic nutrient exchange. In this review we detail how maternal metabolites are transported by the yolk sac to the developing embryo. We discuss recent advances in understanding how altered maternal levels of essential nutrients disrupt development of the neuroepithelium, and identify points of intersection between metabolic pathways that are crucial for NTD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Keuls
- Development, Disease Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Richard H Finnell
- Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Precision Environmental Health, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ronald J Parchem
- Development, Disease Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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19
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Abstract
Male germ cells undergo a complex sequence of developmental events throughout fetal and postnatal life that culminate in the formation of haploid gametes: the spermatozoa. Errors in these processes result in infertility and congenital abnormalities in offspring. Male germ cell development starts when pluripotent cells undergo specification to sexually uncommitted primordial germ cells, which act as precursors of both oocytes and spermatozoa. Male-specific development subsequently occurs in the fetal testes, resulting in the formation of spermatogonial stem cells: the foundational stem cells responsible for lifelong generation of spermatozoa. Although deciphering such developmental processes is challenging in humans, recent studies using various models and single-cell sequencing approaches have shed new insight into human male germ cell development. Here, we provide an overview of cellular, signaling and epigenetic cascades of events accompanying male gametogenesis, highlighting conserved features and the differences between humans and other model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Hargy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kotaro Sasaki
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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20
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Mamnoon B, Moses AS, Sundaram S, Raitmayr CJ, Morgan T, Baldwin MK, Myatt L, Taratula O, Taratula OR. Glutathione-Responsive Methotrexate Polymersomes for Potential Management of Ectopic Pregnancy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023:e2302969. [PMID: 37452511 PMCID: PMC10787806 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202302969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The first-line treatment for ectopic pregnancy (EP), the chemotherapeutic methotrexate (MTX), has a failure rate of more than 10%, which can lead to severe complications or death. Inadequate accumulation of administered MTX at the ectopic implantation site significantly contributes to therapeutic failure. This study reports the first glutathione-responsive polymersomes for efficient delivery of MTX to the implantation site and its triggered release in placental cells. Fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging have confirmed that the developed polymersomes preferentially accumulate after systemic administration in the implantation site of pregnant mice at early gestational stages. The high concentrations of intracellular glutathione (GSH) reduce an incorporated disulfide bond within polymersomes upon internalization into placental cells, resulting in their disintegration and efficient drug release. Consequently, MTX delivered by polymersomes induces pregnancy demise in mice, as opposed to free MTX at the same dose regimen. To achieve the same therapeutic efficacy with free MTX, a sixfold increase in dosage is required. In addition, mice successfully conceive and birth healthy pups following a prior complete pregnancy demise induced by methotrexate polymersomes. Therefore, the developed MTX nanomedicine can potentially improve EP management and reduce associated mortality rates and related cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Mamnoon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
| | - Abraham S Moses
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
| | - Subisha Sundaram
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
| | - Constanze J Raitmayr
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
| | - Terry Morgan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and the Center for Developmental Health, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Maureen K Baldwin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Leslie Myatt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Oleh Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
| | - Olena R Taratula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 2730 S Moody Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97201, USA
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21
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Kidwai FK, Canalis E, Robey PG. Induced pluripotent stem cell technology in bone biology. Bone 2023; 172:116760. [PMID: 37028583 PMCID: PMC10228209 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2023.116760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Technologies on the development and differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are rapidly improving, and have been applied to create cell types relevant to the bone field. Differentiation protocols to form bona fide bone-forming cells from iPSCs are available, and can be used to probe details of differentiation and function in depth. When applied to iPSCs bearing disease-causing mutations, the pathogenetic mechanisms of diseases of the skeleton can be elucidated, along with the development of novel therapeutics. These cells can also be used for development of cell therapies for cell and tissue replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad K Kidwai
- Skeletal Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America
| | - Ernesto Canalis
- Center for Skeletal Research, Orthopedic Surgery and Medicine, UConn Musculoskeletal Institute, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-4037, United States of America
| | - Pamela G Robey
- Skeletal Biology Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD 20892, United States of America.
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22
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Jiang X, Cheng Y, Zhu Y, Xu C, Li Q, Xing X, Li W, Zou J, Meng L, Azhar M, Cao Y, Tong X, Qin W, Zhu X, Bao J. Maternal NAT10 orchestrates oocyte meiotic cell-cycle progression and maturation in mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3729. [PMID: 37349316 PMCID: PMC10287700 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39256-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the production of mature oocytes necessitates rigorous regulation of the discontinuous meiotic cell-cycle progression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. However, the factors underlying this sophisticated but explicit process remain largely unclear. Here we characterize the function of N-acetyltransferase 10 (Nat10), a writer for N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) on RNA molecules, in mouse oocyte development. We provide genetic evidence that Nat10 is essential for oocyte meiotic prophase I progression, oocyte growth and maturation by sculpting the maternal transcriptome through timely degradation of poly(A) tail mRNAs. This is achieved through the ac4C deposition on the key CCR4-NOT complex transcripts. Importantly, we devise a method for examining the poly(A) tail length (PAT), termed Hairpin Adaptor-poly(A) tail length (HA-PAT), which outperforms conventional methods in terms of cost, sensitivity, and efficiency. In summary, these findings provide genetic evidence that unveils the indispensable role of maternal Nat10 in oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Jiang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yu Cheng
- School of Information Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuzhang Zhu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Caoling Xu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qiaodan Li
- Laboratory animal center, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xuemei Xing
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wenqing Li
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jiaqi Zou
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Lan Meng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Muhammad Azhar
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuzhu Cao
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), 510600, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaoli Zhu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Jianqiang Bao
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China.
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), 230001, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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23
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Zhang M, Reis AH, Simunovic M. Human embryoids: A new strategy of recreating the first steps of embryonic development in vitro. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 141:14-22. [PMID: 35871155 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms surrounding early human embryonic events such as blastocyst formation, implantation, and the specification of the body axes are some of the most attractive research questions of developmental biology today. A knowledge on the detailed signaling landscape underlying these critical events in the human could impact the way we treat early pregnancy disorders and infertility, and considerably advance our abilities to make precise human tissues in a lab. However, owing to ethical, technical, and policy restrictions, research on early human embryo development historically stalled behind animal models. The rapid progress in 3D culture of human embryonic stem cells over the past years created an opportunity to overcome this critical challenge. We review recently developed strategies of making 3D models of the human embryo built from embryonic stem cells, which we refer to as embryoids. We focus on models aimed at reconstituting the 3D epithelial characteristics of the early human embryo, namely the intra/extraembryonic signaling crosstalk, tissue polarity, and embryonic cavities. We identify distinct classes of embryoids based on whether they explicitly include extraembryonic tissues and we argue for the merit of compromising on certain aspects of embryo mimicry in balancing the experimental feasibility with ethical considerations. Human embryoids open gates toward a new field of synthetic human embryology, allowing to study the long inaccessible stages of early human development at unprecedented detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaoci Zhang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York 10027, USA; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York 10032, USA
| | - Alice H Reis
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York 10027, USA; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York 10032, USA
| | - Mijo Simunovic
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Columbia University, New York 10027, USA; Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York 10032, USA; Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia Irving Medical Center, New York 10032, USA.
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Richardson V, Engel N, Kulathinal RJ. Comparative developmental genomics of sex-biased gene expression in early embryogenesis across mammals. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:30. [PMID: 37208698 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00520-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian gonadal sex is determined by the presence or absence of a Y chromosome and the subsequent production of sex hormones contributes to secondary sexual differentiation. However, sex chromosome-linked genes encoding dosage-sensitive transcription and epigenetic factors are expressed well before gonad formation and have the potential to establish sex-biased expression that persists beyond the appearance of gonadal hormones. Here, we apply a comparative bioinformatics analysis on a pair of published single-cell datasets from mouse and human during very early embryogenesis-from two-cell to pre-implantation stages-to characterize sex-specific signals and to assess the degree of conservation among early acting sex-specific genes and pathways. RESULTS Clustering and regression analyses of gene expression across samples reveal that sex initially plays a significant role in overall gene expression patterns at the earliest stages of embryogenesis which potentially may be the byproduct of signals from male and female gametes during fertilization. Although these transcriptional sex effects rapidly diminish, sex-biased genes appear to form sex-specific protein-protein interaction networks across pre-implantation stages in both mammals providing evidence that sex-biased expression of epigenetic enzymes may establish sex-specific patterns that persist beyond pre-implantation. Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) on male and female transcriptomes generated clusters of genes with similar expression patterns across sex and developmental stages, including post-fertilization, epigenetic, and pre-implantation ontologies conserved between mouse and human. While the fraction of sex-differentially expressed genes (sexDEGs) in early embryonic stages is similar and functional ontologies are conserved, the genes involved are generally different in mouse and human. CONCLUSIONS This comparative study uncovers much earlier than expected sex-specific signals in mouse and human embryos that pre-date hormonal signaling from the gonads. These early signals are diverged with respect to orthologs yet conserved in terms of function with important implications in the use of genetic models for sex-specific disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victorya Richardson
- Department of Biology, Temple University, 1900 N. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA
| | - Nora Engel
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine, Temple University, 3400 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA.
| | - Rob J Kulathinal
- Department of Biology, Temple University, 1900 N. 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
- Institute for Genomics and Evolutionary Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19122, USA.
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25
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Biondic S, Canizo J, Vandal K, Zhao C, Petropoulos S. Cross-species comparison of mouse and human preimplantation development with an emphasis on lineage specification. Reproduction 2023; 165:R103-R116. [PMID: 36700623 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In brief Human embryogenesis still remains largely unexplored. This review helps identify some of our current gaps in knowledge pertaining to preimplantation development, which may have implications for understanding fundamental aspects of human development, assisted reproductive technologies, and stem cell biology. Abstract Preimplantation development is arguably one of the most critical stages of embryogenesis. Beginning with the formation of the totipotent zygote post-fertilization, a series of cell divisions, and a complex coordination of physical cues, molecular signals and changes in gene expression lead to the formation of the blastocyst, a structure capable of implanting into the uterine wall. The blastocyst is composed of more specified cellular lineages, which will give rise to every tissue of the developing organism as well as the extra-embryonic lineages which support fetal growth. While the mouse has been used as a model to understand the events of preimplantation development for decades, in recent years, an expanding body of work has been conducted using the human embryo. These studies have identified some crucial species differences, particularly in the transcriptional and spatio-temporal expression of lineage markers and responses to cell signaling perturbations. This review compares recent findings on preimplantation development in mouse and human, with a focus on the specification of the first cellular lineages. Highlighting differences and noting mechanisms that require further examination in the human embryo is of critical importance for both the accurate translation of results from the mouse model and our overall understanding of mammalian development. We further highlight the latest advancement in reproductive research, the development of the 3D stem cell-based models known as 'blastoids'. The knowledge discussed in this review has major clinical implications for assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization and for applications in stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savana Biondic
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Jesica Canizo
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Katherine Vandal
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Biology Program, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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26
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Zhang C, Dong X, Yin X, Yuan X, Wang J, Song J, Hou Z, Li C, Wu K. Developmental toxicity of 2-bromoacetamide on peri- and early post-implantation mouse embryos in vitro. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 252:114612. [PMID: 36774798 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
2-bromoacetamide (BAcAm), a new class of disinfection by-products (DBPs), is widely detected in drinking water across the world. Reports of the high cytogenetic toxicity of BAcAm have aroused public attention concerning its toxic effects on early embryonic development. In this study, we optimized an in vitro culture (IVC) system for peri- and early post-implantation mouse embryos and used this system to determine the developmental toxicity of BAcAm. We found that exposure to BAcAm caused a reduction in egg cylinder formation rate and abnormal lineage differentiation in a dose-dependent manner. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed that BAcAm exposure at early developmental stages altered the abundance of transcripts related to a variety of biological processes including gene expression, metabolism, cell proliferation, cell death and embryonic development, thus indicating its toxic effects on embryonic development. Thus, we developed a robust tool for studying the toxicology of chemicals at the early stages of embryonic development and demonstrated the developmental toxicity of BAcAm in the early embryonic development of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanxin Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xueqi Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xinyi Yuan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Jinzhu Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhenzhen Hou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Cheng Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Keliang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
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Augustyniak J, Kozlowska H, Buzanska L. Genes Involved in DNA Repair and Mitophagy Protect Embryoid Bodies from the Toxic Effect of Methylmercury Chloride under Physioxia Conditions. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030390. [PMID: 36766732 PMCID: PMC9913246 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of embryoid bodies (EBs) from human pluripotent stem cells resembles the early stages of human embryo development, mimicking the organization of three germ layers. In our study, EBs were tested for their vulnerability to chronic exposure to low doses of MeHgCl (1 nM) under atmospheric (21%O2) and physioxia (5%O2) conditions. Significant differences were observed in the relative expression of genes associated with DNA repair and mitophagy between the tested oxygen conditions in nontreated EBs. When compared to physioxia conditions, the significant differences recorded in EBs cultured at 21% O2 included: (1) lower expression of genes associated with DNA repair (ATM, OGG1, PARP1, POLG1) and mitophagy (PARK2); (2) higher level of mtDNA copy number; and (3) higher expression of the neuroectodermal gene (NES). Chronic exposure to a low dose of MeHgCl (1 nM) disrupted the development of EBs under both oxygen conditions. However, only EBs exposed to MeHgCl at 21% O2 revealed downregulation of mtDNA copy number, increased oxidative DNA damage and DNA fragmentation, as well as disturbances in SOX17 (endoderm) and TBXT (mesoderm) genes expression. Our data revealed that physioxia conditions protected EBs genome integrity and their further differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Augustyniak
- Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (L.B.); Tel.: +48-668500988 (L.B.)
| | - Hanna Kozlowska
- Laboratory of Advanced Microscopy Technique, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Leonora Buzanska
- Department of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (L.B.); Tel.: +48-668500988 (L.B.)
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28
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Dai X, Shao H, Sun N, Ci B, Wu J, Liu C, Wu L, Yuan Y, Wei X, Yang H, Liu L, Ji W, Bai B, Shang Z, Tan T. Developmental dynamics of chromatin accessibility during post-implantation development of monkey embryos. Gigascience 2022; 12:giad038. [PMID: 37226912 PMCID: PMC10209733 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giad038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early post-implantation development, especially gastrulation in primates, is accompanied by extensive drastic chromatin reorganization, which remains largely elusive. RESULTS To delineate the global chromatin landscape and understand the molecular dynamics during this period, a single-cell assay for transposase accessible chromatin sequencing (scATAC-seq) was applied to in vitro cultured cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis, hereafter referred to as monkey) embryos to investigate the chromatin status. First, we delineated the cis-regulatory interactions and identified the regulatory networks and critical transcription factors involved in the epiblast (EPI), hypoblast, and trophectoderm/trophoblast (TE) lineage specification. Second, we observed that the chromatin opening of some genome regions preceded the gene expression during EPI and trophoblast specification. Third, we identified the opposing roles of FGF and BMP signaling in pluripotency regulation during EPI specification. Finally, we revealed the similarity between EPI and TE in gene expression profiles and demonstrated that PATZ1 and NR2F2 were involved in EPI and trophoblast specification during monkey post-implantation development. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide a useful resource and insights into dissecting the transcriptional regulatory machinery during primate post-implantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Dai
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Honglian Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Nianqin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Baiquan Ci
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | | | - Liang Wu
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yue Yuan
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | | | - Huanming Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Longqi Liu
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Weizhi Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Bing Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Zhouchun Shang
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China
- James D. Watson Institute of Genome Sciences, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Tao Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan 650500, China
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29
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Paloviita P, Vuoristo S. The non-coding genome in early human development - Recent advancements. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:4-13. [PMID: 35177347 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Not that long ago, the human genome was discovered to be mainly non-coding, that is comprised of DNA sequences that do not code for proteins. The initial paradigm that non-coding is also non-functional was soon overturned and today the work to uncover the functions of non-coding DNA and RNA in human early embryogenesis has commenced. Early human development is characterized by large-scale changes in genomic activity and the transcriptome that are partly driven by the coordinated activation and repression of repetitive DNA elements scattered across the genome. Here we provide examples of recent novel discoveries of non-coding DNA and RNA interactions and mechanisms that ensure accurate non-coding activity during human maternal-to-zygotic transition and lineage segregation. These include studies on small and long non-coding RNAs, transposable element regulation, and RNA tailing in human oocytes and early embryos. High-throughput approaches to dissect the non-coding regulatory networks governing early human development are a foundation for functional studies of specific genomic elements and molecules that has only begun and will provide a wider understanding of early human embryogenesis and causes of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauliina Paloviita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Vuoristo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
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30
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New insights into the epitranscriptomic control of pluripotent stem cell fate. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:1643-1651. [PMID: 36266446 PMCID: PMC9636187 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Each cell in the human body has a distinguishable fate. Pluripotent stem cells are challenged with a myriad of lineage differentiation options. Defects are more likely to be fatal to stem cells than to somatic cells due to the broad impact of the former on early development. Hence, a detailed understanding of the mechanisms that determine the fate of stem cells is needed. The mechanisms by which human pluripotent stem cells, although not fully equipped with complex chromatin structures or epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, accurately control gene expression and are important to the stem cell field. In this review, we examine the events driving pluripotent stem cell fate and the underlying changes in gene expression during early development. In addition, we highlight the role played by the epitranscriptome in the regulation of gene expression that is necessary for each fate-related event.
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Abstract
The complex process by which a single-celled zygote develops into a viable embryo is nothing short of a miraculous wonder of the natural world. Elucidating how this process is orchestrated in humans has long eluded the grasp of scientists due to ethical and practical limitations. Thankfully, pluripotent stem cells that resemble early developmental cell types possess the ability to mimic specific embryonic events. As such, murine and human stem cells have been leveraged by scientists to create in vitro models that aim to recapitulate different stages of early mammalian development. Here, we examine the wide variety of stem cell-based embryo models that have been developed to recapitulate and study embryonic events, from pre-implantation development through to early organogenesis. We discuss the applications of these models, key considerations regarding their importance within the field, and how such models are expected to grow and evolve to achieve exciting new milestones in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aidan H. Terhune
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jeyoon Bok
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Shiyu Sun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jianping Fu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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32
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Bao M, Cornwall-Scoones J, Zernicka-Goetz M. Stem-cell-based human and mouse embryo models. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2022; 76:101970. [PMID: 35988317 PMCID: PMC10309046 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2022.101970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic embryology aims to develop embryo-like structures from stem cells to provide new insight into early stages of mammalian development. Recent advances in synthetic embryology have highlighted the remarkable capacity of stem cells to self-organize under certain biochemical or biophysical stimulations, generating structures that recapitulate the fate and form of early mouse/human embryos, in which symmetry breaking, pattern formation, or proper morphogenesis can be observed spontaneously. Here we review recent progress on the design principles for different types of embryoids and discuss the impact of different biochemical and biophysical factors on the process of stem-cell self-organization. We also offer our thoughts about the principal future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Bao
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK. https://twitter.com/@Min_Bao_
| | - Jake Cornwall-Scoones
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK. https://twitter.com/@jake_cs_
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK.
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33
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Hao H, Shi B, Zhang J, Dai A, Li W, Chen H, Ji W, Gong C, Zhang C, Li J, Chen L, Yao B, Hu P, Yang H, Brosius J, Lai S, Shi Q, Deng C. The vertebrate- and testis- specific transmembrane protein C11ORF94 plays a critical role in sperm-oocyte membrane binding. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2022; 3:27. [PMID: 36050562 PMCID: PMC9437168 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-022-00092-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractSperm-oocyte membrane fusion is necessary for mammalian fertilization. The factors that determine the fusion of sperm with oocytes are largely unknown. So far, spermatozoon factor IZUMO1 and the IZUMO1 counter-receptor JUNO on the oocyte membrane has been identified as a protein requiring fusion. Some sperm membrane proteins such as FIMP, SPACA6 and TEME95, have been proved not to directly regulate fusion, but their knockout will affect the fusion process of sperm and oocytes. Here, we identified a novel gene C11orf94 encoding a testicular-specific small transmembrane protein that emerges in vertebrates likely acquired via horizontal gene transfer from bacteria and plays an indispensable role in sperm-oocyte binding. We demonstrated that the deletion of C11orf94 dramatically decreased male fertility in mice. Sperm from C11orf94-deficient mice could pass through the zona pellucida, but failed to bind to the oocyte membrane, thus accumulating in the perivitelline space. In consistence, when the sperm of C11orf94-deficient mice were microinjected into the oocyte cytoplasm, fertilized oocytes were obtained and developed normally to blastocysts. Proteomics analysis revealed that C11orf94 influenced the expression of multiple gene products known to be indispensable for sperm-oocyte binding and fusion, including IZUMO1, EQTN and CRISP1. Thus, our study indicated that C11ORF94 is a vertebrate- and testis-specific small transmembrane protein that plays a critical role in sperm binding to the oolemma.
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Zhao Y, Bai D, Wu Y, Zhang D, Liu M, Tian Y, Lu J, Wang H, Gao S, Lu Z. Maternal Ezh1/2 deficiency in oocyte delays H3K27me2/3 restoration and impairs epiblast development responsible for embryonic sub-lethality in mouse. Development 2022; 149:dev200316. [PMID: 38771308 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
How maternal Ezh1 and Ezh2 function in H3K27 methylation in vivo in pre-implantation embryos and during embryonic development is not clear. Here, we have deleted Ezh1 and Ezh2 alone or simultaneously from mouse oocytes. H3K27me3 was absent in oocytes without Ezh2 alone, while both H3K27me2 and H3K27me3 were absent in Ezh1/Ezh2 (Ezh1/2) double knockout (KO) oocytes. The effects of Ezh1/2 maternal KO were inherited in zygotes and early embryos, in which restoration of H3K27me3 and H3K27me2 was delayed by the loss of Ezh2 alone or of both Ezh1 and Ezh2. However, the ablation of both Ezh1 and Ezh2, but not Ezh1 or Ezh2 alone, led to significantly decreased litter size due to growth retardation post-implantation. Maternal Ezh1/2 deficiency caused compromised H3K27me3 and pluripotent epiblast cells in late blastocysts, followed by defective embryonic development. By using RNA-seq, we examined crucial developmental genes in maternal Ezh1/2 KO embryos and identified 80 putatively imprinted genes. Maternal Ezh1/2-H3K27 methylation is inherited in offspring embryos and has a critical effect on fetal and placental development. Thus, this work sheds light on maternal epigenetic modifications during embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinan Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Dandan Bai
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - You Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Mengying Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Yingpu Tian
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
| | - Jinhua Lu
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Shaorong Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhongxian Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, Medical College of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
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35
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Ai Z, Yin Y, Niu B, Li T. Deconstructing human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on embryos and embryoids. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:212-225. [PMID: 35552636 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The peri-implantation period from blastula to gastrula is one of the crucial stages of human embryo and stem cell development. During development, human embryos undergo many crucial events, such as embryonic lineage differentiation and development, structural self-assembly, pluripotency state transition, cell communication between lineages, and crosstalk between the embryo and uterus. Abnormalities in these developmental events will result in implantation failure or pregnancy loss. However, because of ethical and technical limits, the developmental dynamics of human peri-implantation embryos and the underlying mechanisms of abnormal development remain in a "black box". In this review, we summarize recent progress made towards our understanding of human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on extended in vitro cultured embryos and stem cell-based embryoids. These findings lay an important foundation for understanding early life, promoting research into human stem cells and their application, and preventing and treating infertility. We also propose key scientific issues regarding peri-implantation embryogenesis and provide an outlook on future study directions. Finally, we sum up China's contribution to the field and future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyong Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yu Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Baohua Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Tianqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
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36
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Marikawa Y, Alarcon VB. Remdesivir impairs mouse preimplantation embryo development at therapeutic concentrations. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 111:135-147. [PMID: 35605700 PMCID: PMC9122741 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Remdesivir (RDV) is the first antiviral drug to be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of COVID-19. While the general safety of RDV has been studied, its reproductive risk, including embryotoxicity, is largely unknown. Here, to gain insights into its embryotoxic potential, we investigated the effects of RDV on mouse preimplantation embryos cultured in vitro at the concentrations comparable to the therapeutic plasma levels. Exposure to RDV (2–8 µM) did not affect the initiation of blastocyst formation, although the maintenance of the cavity failed at 8 µM due to increased cell death. While exposure to 2–4 µM permitted the cavity maintenance, expressions of developmental regulator genes associated with the inner cell mass (ICM) lineage were significantly diminished. Adverse effects of RDV depended on the duration and timing of exposure, as treatment between the 8-cell to early blastocyst stage most sensitively affected cavity expansion, gene expressions, and cell proliferation, particularly of the ICM than the trophectoderm lineage. GS-441524, a major metabolite of RDV, did not impair blastocyst formation or cavity expansion, although it altered gene expressions in a manner differently from RDV. Additionally, RDV reduced the viability of human embryonic stem cells, which were used as a model for the human ICM lineage, more potently than GS-441524. These findings suggest that RDV is potentially embryotoxic to impair the pluripotent lineage, and will be useful for designing and interpreting further in vitro and in vivo studies on the reproductive toxicity of RDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Marikawa
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Vernadeth B Alarcon
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA.
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37
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Harris TJC. Axis specification: Breaking symmetry with a myosin patch in the egg. Curr Biol 2022; 32:R89-R91. [PMID: 35077697 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Drosophila anterior-posterior axis specification occurs in the oocyte, but the initial symmetry break has been unclear. A new study reveals that a posterior domain of cortical myosin is induced with unique post-translational modification and dynamics and that this domain recruits downstream posterior determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony J C Harris
- Department of Cell and Systems Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G5, Canada.
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38
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Dokmegang J. Modeling Epiblast Shape in Implanting Mammalian Embryos. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2490:281-296. [PMID: 35486253 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2281-0_20] [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: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An indispensable prerequisite of mammalian development is successful morphogenesis in the epiblast, the embryonic tissue that gives rise to all differentiated cells of the adult mammal. The right control of both epiblast morphogenesis and the events that regulate its shape in particular during implantation is henceforth of tremendous importance. However, monitoring the process of development in implanting human embryos is ethically and technically challenging, making it difficult to troubleshoot when things go wrong, as it is unfortunately the case with over 30% of pregnancy failures. Although modern in vitro techniques have proven very insightful lately, more tools are needed in the quest to elucidate mammalian and human development. Mathematical and computational modeling position themselves as helpful complementary tools in the biologist's toolbox, enabling the exploration of the living in silico, beyond the boundaries set by ethical concerns and the potential limitations of wet lab techniques. Here, we show how mathematical modeling and computer simulations can be used to emulate and investigate mechanisms driving epiblast shape changes in mouse and human embryos during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Dokmegang
- NSF-Simons Center for Quantitative Biology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
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39
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What defines the maternal transcriptome? Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2051-2062. [PMID: 34415300 PMCID: PMC8589422 DOI: 10.1042/bst20201125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In somatic cells, RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription initiation starts by the binding of the general transcription factor TFIID, containing the TATA-binding protein (TBP) and 13 TBP-associated factors (TAFs), to core promoters. However, in growing oocytes active Pol II transcription is TFIID/TBP-independent, as during oocyte growth TBP is replaced by its vertebrate-specific paralog TBPL2. TBPL2 does not interact with TAFs, but stably associates with TFIIA. The maternal transcriptome is the population of mRNAs produced and stored in the cytoplasm of growing oocytes. After fertilization, maternal mRNAs are inherited by the zygote from the oocyte. As transcription becomes silent after oocyte growth, these mRNAs are the sole source for active protein translation. They will participate to complete the protein pool required for oocyte terminal differentiation, fertilization and initiation of early development, until reactivation of transcription in the embryo, called zygotic genome activation (ZGA). All these events are controlled by an important reshaping of the maternal transcriptome. This procedure combines cytoplasmic readenylation of stored transcripts, allowing their translation, and different waves of mRNA degradation by deadenylation coupled to decapping, to eliminate transcripts coding for proteins that are no longer required. The reshaping ends after ZGA with an almost total clearance of the maternal transcripts. In the past, the murine maternal transcriptome has received little attention but recent progresses have brought new insights into the regulation of maternal mRNA dynamics in the mouse. This review will address past and recent data on the mechanisms associated with maternal transcriptome dynamic in the mouse.
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40
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Duan K, Si CY, Zhao SM, Ai ZY, Niu BH, Yin Y, Xiang LF, Ding H, Zheng Y. The Long Terminal Repeats of ERV6 Are Activated in Pre-Implantation Embryos of Cynomolgus Monkey. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102710. [PMID: 34685690 PMCID: PMC8534818 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise gene regulation is critical during embryo development. Long terminal repeat elements (LTRs) of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are dynamically expressed in blastocysts of mammalian embryos. However, the expression pattern of LTRs in monkey blastocyst is still unknown. By single-cell RNA-sequencing (seq) data of cynomolgus monkeys, we found that LTRs of several ERV families, including MacERV6, MacERV3, MacERV2, MacERVK1, and MacERVK2, were highly expressed in pre-implantation embryo cells including epiblast (EPI), trophectoderm (TrB), and primitive endoderm (PrE), but were depleted in post-implantation. We knocked down MacERV6-LTR1a in cynomolgus monkeys with a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) strategy to examine the potential function of MacERV6-LTR1a in the early development of monkey embryos. The silence of MacERV6-LTR1a mainly postpones the differentiation of TrB, EPI, and PrE cells in embryos at day 7 compared to control. Moreover, we confirmed MacERV6-LTR1a could recruit Estrogen Related Receptor Beta (ESRRB), which plays an important role in the maintenance of self-renewal and pluripotency of embryonic and trophoblast stem cells through different signaling pathways including FGF and Wnt signaling pathways. In summary, these results suggest that MacERV6-LTR1a is involved in gene regulation of the pre-implantation embryo of the cynomolgus monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kui Duan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Chen-Yang Si
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Shu-Mei Zhao
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zong-Yong Ai
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Bao-Hua Niu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yu Yin
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Li-Feng Xiang
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Hao Ding
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yun Zheng
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Correspondence:
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41
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Mechanics of neural tube morphogenesis. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 130:56-69. [PMID: 34561169 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The neural tube is an important model system of morphogenesis representing the developmental module of out-of-plane epithelial deformation. As the embryonic precursor of the central nervous system, the neural tube also holds keys to many defects and diseases. Recent advances begin to reveal how genetic, cellular and environmental mechanisms work in concert to ensure correct neural tube shape. A physical model is emerging where these factors converge at the regulation of the mechanical forces and properties within and around the tissue that drive tube formation towards completion. Here we review the dynamics and mechanics of neural tube morphogenesis and discuss the underlying cellular behaviours from the viewpoint of tissue mechanics. We will also highlight some of the conceptual and technical next steps.
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42
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Spencer Chapman M, Ranzoni AM, Myers B, Williams N, Coorens THH, Mitchell E, Butler T, Dawson KJ, Hooks Y, Moore L, Nangalia J, Robinson PS, Yoshida K, Hook E, Campbell PJ, Cvejic A. Lineage tracing of human development through somatic mutations. Nature 2021; 595:85-90. [PMID: 33981037 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03548-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The ontogeny of the human haematopoietic system during fetal development has previously been characterized mainly through careful microscopic observations1. Here we reconstruct a phylogenetic tree of blood development using whole-genome sequencing of 511 single-cell-derived haematopoietic colonies from healthy human fetuses at 8 and 18 weeks after conception, coupled with deep targeted sequencing of tissues of known embryonic origin. We found that, in healthy fetuses, individual haematopoietic progenitors acquire tens of somatic mutations by 18 weeks after conception. We used these mutations as barcodes and timed the divergence of embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues during development, and estimated the number of blood antecedents at different stages of embryonic development. Our data support a hypoblast origin of the extra-embryonic mesoderm and primitive blood in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Spencer Chapman
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Department of Haematology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
- Department of Haematology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Anna Maria Ranzoni
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Brynelle Myers
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Emily Mitchell
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Department of Haematology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | | - Luiza Moore
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jyoti Nangalia
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Philip S Robinson
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Hook
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter J Campbell
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Ana Cvejic
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
- Wellcome Trust-Medical Research Council Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, UK.
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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43
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Molè MA, Coorens THH, Shahbazi MN, Weberling A, Weatherbee BAT, Gantner CW, Sancho-Serra C, Richardson L, Drinkwater A, Syed N, Engley S, Snell P, Christie L, Elder K, Campbell A, Fishel S, Behjati S, Vento-Tormo R, Zernicka-Goetz M. A single cell characterisation of human embryogenesis identifies pluripotency transitions and putative anterior hypoblast centre. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3679. [PMID: 34140473 PMCID: PMC8211662 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23758-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Following implantation, the human embryo undergoes major morphogenetic transformations that establish the future body plan. While the molecular events underpinning this process are established in mice, they remain unknown in humans. Here we characterise key events of human embryo morphogenesis, in the period between implantation and gastrulation, using single-cell analyses and functional studies. First, the embryonic epiblast cells transition through different pluripotent states and act as a source of FGF signals that ensure proliferation of both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues. In a subset of embryos, we identify a group of asymmetrically positioned extra-embryonic hypoblast cells expressing inhibitors of BMP, NODAL and WNT signalling pathways. We suggest that this group of cells can act as the anterior singalling centre to pattern the epiblast. These results provide insights into pluripotency state transitions, the role of FGF signalling and the specification of anterior-posterior axis during human embryo development. Single cell analysis of early human embryos identifies key changes in pluripotency, the requirement of FGF signalling for embryo survival, and defines a putative anterior-like region of hypoblast cells, providing insights into how early human development is regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo A Molè
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Marta N Shahbazi
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Antonia Weberling
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bailey A T Weatherbee
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlos W Gantner
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Lucy Richardson
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Abbie Drinkwater
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Najma Syed
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Stephanie Engley
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, Nottingham, UK.,School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK. .,Cambridge University Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | | | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK. .,Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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44
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Minn KT, Dietmann S, Waye SE, Morris SA, Solnica-Krezel L. Gene expression dynamics underlying cell fate emergence in 2D micropatterned human embryonic stem cell gastruloids. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:1210-1227. [PMID: 33891870 PMCID: PMC8185470 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells cultured in 2D micropatterns with BMP4 differentiate into a radial arrangement of germ layers and extraembryonic cells. Single-cell transcriptomes demonstrate generation of cell types transcriptionally similar to their in vivo counterparts in Carnegie stage 7 human gastrula. Time-course analyses indicate sequential differentiation, where the epiblast arises by 12 h between the prospective ectoderm in the center and the cells initiating differentiation toward extraembryonic fates at the edge. Extraembryonic and mesendoderm precursors arise from the epiblast by 24 h, while nascent mesoderm, endoderm, and primordial germ cell-like cells form by 44 h. Dynamic changes in transcripts encoding signaling components support a BMP, WNT, and Nodal hierarchy underlying germ-layer specification conserved across mammals, and FGF and HIPPO pathways being active throughout differentiation. This work also provides a resource for mining genes and pathways expressed in a stereotyped 2D gastruloid model, common with other species or unique to human gastrulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyaw Thu Minn
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Division of Nephrology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Sarah E Waye
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Samantha A Morris
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Lilianna Solnica-Krezel
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center of Regenerative Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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45
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Shankar V, van Blitterswijk C, Vrij E, Giselbrecht S. From Snapshots to Development: Identifying the Gaps in the Development of Stem Cell-based Embryo Models along the Embryonic Timeline. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2004250. [PMID: 33898195 PMCID: PMC8061376 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, stem cell-based models that reconstruct mouse and human embryogenesis have gained significant traction due to their near-physiological similarity to natural embryos. Embryo models can be generated in large numbers, provide accessibility to a variety of experimental tools such as genetic and chemical manipulation, and confer compatibility with automated readouts, which permits exciting experimental avenues for exploring the genetic and molecular principles of self-organization, development, and disease. However, the current embryo models recapitulate only snapshots within the continuum of embryonic development, allowing the progression of the embryonic tissues along a specific direction. Hence, to fully exploit the potential of stem cell-based embryo models, multiple important gaps in the developmental landscape need to be covered. These include recapitulating the lesser-explored interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues such as the yolk sac, placenta, and the umbilical cord; spatial and temporal organization of tissues; and the anterior patterning of embryonic development. Here, it is detailed how combinations of stem cells and versatile bioengineering technologies can help in addressing these gaps and thereby extend the implications of embryo models in the fields of cell biology, development, and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinidhra Shankar
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | | | - Erik Vrij
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
| | - Stefan Giselbrecht
- Maastricht UniversityUniversiteitssingel 40Maastricht6229 ERThe Netherlands
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46
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Molè MA, Weberling A, Fässler R, Campbell A, Fishel S, Zernicka-Goetz M. Integrin β1 coordinates survival and morphogenesis of the embryonic lineage upon implantation and pluripotency transition. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108834. [PMID: 33691117 PMCID: PMC7966855 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
At implantation, the embryo establishes contacts with the maternal endometrium. This stage is associated with a high incidence of preclinical pregnancy losses. While the maternal factors underlying uterine receptivity have been investigated, the signals required by the embryo for successful peri-implantation development remain elusive. To explore these, we studied integrin β1 signaling, as embryos deficient for this receptor degenerate at implantation. We demonstrate that the coordinated action of pro-survival signals and localized actomyosin suppression via integrin β1 permits the development of the embryo beyond implantation. Failure of either process leads to developmental arrest and apoptosis. Pharmacological stimulation through fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), coupled with ROCK-mediated actomyosin inhibition, rescues the deficiency of integrin β1, promoting progression to post-implantation stages. Mutual exclusion between integrin β1 and actomyosin seems to be conserved in the human embryo, suggesting the possibility that these mechanisms could also underlie the transition of the human epiblast from pre- to post-implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Amitaba Molè
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Antonia Weberling
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Reinhard Fässler
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Alison Campbell
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK
| | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, John Webster House, 6 Lawrence Drive, Nottingham Business Park, Nottingham NG8 6PZ, UK; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK; Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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47
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Human Embryo Models and Drug Discovery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020637. [PMID: 33440617 PMCID: PMC7828037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For obvious reasons, such as, e.g., ethical concerns or sample accessibility, model systems are of highest importance to study the underlying molecular mechanisms of human maladies with the aim to develop innovative and effective therapeutic strategies. Since many years, animal models and highly proliferative transformed cell lines are successfully used for disease modelling, drug discovery, target validation, and preclinical testing. Still, species-specific differences regarding genetics and physiology and the limited suitability of immortalized cell lines to draw conclusions on normal human cells or specific cell types, are undeniable shortcomings. The progress in human pluripotent stem cell research now allows the growth of a virtually limitless supply of normal and DNA-edited human cells, which can be differentiated into various specific cell types. However, cells in the human body never fulfill their functions in mono-lineage isolation and diseases always develop in complex multicellular ecosystems. The recent advances in stem cell-based 3D organoid technologies allow a more accurate in vitro recapitulation of human pathologies. Embryoids are a specific type of such multicellular structures that do not only mimic a single organ or tissue, but the entire human conceptus or at least relevant components of it. Here we briefly describe the currently existing in vitro human embryo models and discuss their putative future relevance for disease modelling and drug discovery.
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48
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Weberling A, Zernicka-Goetz M. Trophectoderm mechanics direct epiblast shape upon embryo implantation. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108655. [PMID: 33472064 PMCID: PMC7816124 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is a hallmark of mammalian embryogenesis during which embryos establish their contacts with the maternal endometrium, remodel, and undertake growth and differentiation. The mechanisms and sequence of events through which embryos change their shape during this transition are largely unexplored. Here, we show that the first extraembryonic lineage, the polar trophectoderm, is the key regulator for remodeling the embryonic epiblast. Loss of its function after immuno-surgery or inhibitor treatments prevents the epiblast shape transitions. In the mouse, the polar trophectoderm exerts physical force upon the epiblast, causing it to transform from an oval into a cup shape. In human embryos, the polar trophectoderm behaves in the opposite manner, exerting a stretching force. By mimicking this stretching behavior in mouse embryogenesis, we could direct the epiblast to adopt the disc-like shape characteristic of human embryos at this stage. Thus, the polar trophectoderm acts as a conserved regulator of epiblast shape. Mouse epiblast remodeling from blastocyst to egg cylinder is achieved in five stages Epiblast remodeling upon implantation is not inherent to the embryonic lineage The polar trophectoderm mediates epiblast shape acquisition Epiblast shape regulation by the polar trophectoderm appears conserved in evolution
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Weberling
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK; Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, California Institute of Technology, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, 1200 E. California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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49
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Modeling human embryo development with embryonic and extra-embryonic stem cells. Dev Biol 2020; 474:91-99. [PMID: 33333069 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Early human post-implantation development involves extensive growth combined with a series of complex morphogenetic events. The lack of precise spatial and temporal control over these processes leads to pregnancy loss. Given the ethical and technical limitations in studying the natural human embryo, alternative approaches are needed to investigate mechanisms underlying this critical stage of human development. Here, we present an overview of the different stem cells and stem cell-derived models which serve as useful, albeit imperfect, tools in understanding human embryogenesis. Current models include stem cells that represent each of the three earliest lineages: human embryonic stem cells corresponding to the epiblast, hypoblast-like stem cells and trophoblast stem cells. We also review the use of human embryonic stem cells to model complex aspects of epiblast morphogenesis and differentiation. Additionally, we propose that the combination of both embryonic and extra-embryonic stem cells to form three-dimensional embryo models will provide valuable insights into cell-cell chemical and mechanical interactions that are essential for natural embryogenesis.
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50
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Abstract
Nuclear pore complexes are multiprotein channels that span the nuclear envelope, which connects the nucleus to the cytoplasm. In addition to their main role in the regulation of nucleocytoplasmic molecule exchange, it has become evident that nuclear pore complexes and their components also have multiple transport-independent functions. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have reported the involvement of nuclear pore complex components in embryogenesis, cell differentiation and tissue-specific processes. Here, we review the findings that highlight the dynamic nature of nuclear pore complexes and their roles in many cell type-specific functions during development and tissue homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Guglielmi
- Development, Aging and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Maximiliano A D'Angelo
- Development, Aging and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- NCI-Designated Cancer Center, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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