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Wu C, Duan X, Wang X, Wang L. Advances in the role of epigenetics in homocysteine-related diseases. Epigenomics 2023; 15:769-795. [PMID: 37718931 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0207] [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: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Homocysteine has a wide range of biological effects. However, the specific molecular mechanism of its pathogenicity is still unclear. The diseases induced by hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) are called homocysteine-related diseases. Clinical treatment of HHcy is mainly through folic acid and B-complex vitamins, which are not effective in reducing the associated end point events. Epigenetics is the alteration of heritable genes caused by DNA methylation, histone modification, noncoding RNAs and chromatin remodeling without altering the DNA sequence. In recent years the role of epigenetics in homocysteine-associated diseases has been gradually discovered. This article summarizes the latest evidence on the role of epigenetics in HHcy, providing new directions for its prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyan Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Xulei Duan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Xuehui Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Libo Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
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2
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Arutjunyan AV, Milyutina YP, Shcherbitskaia AD, Kerkeshko GO, Zalozniaia IV. Epigenetic Mechanisms Involved in the Effects of Maternal Hyperhomocysteinemia on the Functional State of Placenta and Nervous System Plasticity in the Offspring. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2023; 88:435-456. [PMID: 37080931 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297923040016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
According to modern view, susceptibility to diseases, specifically to cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders, can form during embryonic development. Adverse factors affecting mother during the pregnancy increase the risk of developing pathologies. Despite the association between elevated maternal blood homocysteine (Hcy) and fetal brain impairments, as well as cognitive deficits in the offspring, the role of brain plasticity in the development of these pathologies remains poorly studied. Here, we review the data on the negative impact of hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) on the neural plasticity, in particular, its possible influence on the offspring brain plasticity through epigenetic mechanisms, such as changes in intracellular methylation potential, activity of DNA methyltransferases, DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA expression in brain cells. Since placenta plays a key role in the transport of nutrients and transmission of signals from mother to fetus, its dysfunction due to aberrant epigenetic regulation can affect the development of fetal CNS. The review also presents the data on the impact of maternal HHcy on the epigenetic regulation in the placenta. The data presented in the review are not only interesting from purely scientific point of view, but can help in understanding the role of HHcy and epigenetic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of diseases, such as pregnancy pathologies resulting in the delayed development of fetal brain, cognitive impairments in the offspring during childhood, and neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders later in life, as well as in the search for approaches for their prevention using neuroprotectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Arutjunyan
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.
- St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, St. Petersburg, 197110, Russia
| | - Yulia P Milyutina
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
- St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, 194100, Russia
| | - Anastasia D Shcherbitskaia
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, 194223, Russia
| | - Gleb O Kerkeshko
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
- St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, St. Petersburg, 197110, Russia
| | - Irina V Zalozniaia
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
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3
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Kilany AA, El-Darawany AHA, El-Tarabany AA, Al-Marakby KM. Effect of Folic Acid Supplements on Progesterone Profile and Blood Metabolites of Heat-Stressed Holstein Cows during the Early Stage of Pregnancy. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151872. [PMID: 35892522 PMCID: PMC9331989 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim was to elucidate the impact of oral folic acid (FA) supplements on progesterone profile, blood metabolites and biochemical indices of heat-stressed Holstein cows during the early stage of pregnancy. The study lasted from the day of artificial insemination through the end of the fourth week of pregnancy. The first group (CON, n = 17) received 0 μg of FA/kg BW as a control. The second and third groups received oral FA doses of 5 (FA5, n = 19) and 10 (FA10, n = 20) μg kg−1 BW, respectively. At the 2nd and 3rd weeks of pregnancy, the FA10 group had greater progesterone levels than the CON group (p < 0.05). The FA10 group had a greater progesterone level than the FA5 and CON groups at the fourth week of pregnancy (p < 0.01). The FA10 group had higher folate levels than CON group during the first three weeks of pregnancy (p < 0.01). Both FA-supplemented groups had significantly greater serum folates than the CON group by the end of the fourth week of pregnancy (p < 0.01). At the 2nd and 4th weeks of pregnancy, the FA10 group had greater levels of serum glucose and globulin than the CON group (p = 0.028 and 0.049, respectively). Both FA-supplemented groups had greater serum growth hormone (GH) levels at the 4th week of pregnancy (p = 0.020). Additionally, the FA10 group showed significantly higher levels of IGF-1 at the 2nd and 4th week of gestation (p = 0.040 and 0.001, respectively). FA supplementation decreased the levels of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) at the 2nd and 4th week of gestation (p = 0.020 and 0.035, respectively). Additionally, the FA10 group showed significantly higher pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) levels at the 2nd and 4th week of gestation (p = 0.005 and 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, oral FA supplementation (10 mcg kg−1) in the first month of gestation improved the progesterone profile, as well as blood folates, PAG, GH, and IGF-1 concentrations in heat-stressed Holstein cows. These findings could be useful in developing practical strategies to keep dairy cows’ regular reproductive patterns under heat stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman A. Kilany
- Radioisotopes Applications Division, Department of Biological Applications, NRC, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Inshas, Cairo P.O. Box 13759, Egypt;
| | - Abdel-Halim A. El-Darawany
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44511, Egypt; (A.-H.A.E.-D.); (K.M.A.-M.)
| | - Akram A. El-Tarabany
- Radioisotopes Applications Division, Department of Biological Applications, NRC, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Inshas, Cairo P.O. Box 13759, Egypt;
- Correspondence:
| | - Khaled M. Al-Marakby
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44511, Egypt; (A.-H.A.E.-D.); (K.M.A.-M.)
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Abstract
The intestinal tract is the entry gate for nutrients and symbiotic organisms, being in constant contact with external environment. DNA methylation is one of the keys to how environmental conditions, diet and nutritional status included, shape functionality in the gut and systemically. This review aims to summarise findings on the importance of methylation to gut development, differentiation and function. Evidence to date on how external factors such as diet, dietary supplements, nutritional status and microbiota modifications modulate intestinal function through DNA methylation is also presented.
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Allison J, Kaliszewska A, Uceda S, Reiriz M, Arias N. Targeting DNA Methylation in the Adult Brain through Diet. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113979. [PMID: 34836233 PMCID: PMC8618930 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolism and nutrition have a significant role in epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, which can influence gene expression. Recently, it has been suggested that bioactive nutrients and gut microbiota can alter DNA methylation in the central nervous system (CNS) through the gut-brain axis, playing a crucial role in modulating CNS functions and, finally, behavior. Here, we will focus on the effect of metabolic signals in shaping brain DNA methylation during adulthood. We will provide an overview of potential interactions among diet, gastrointestinal microbiome and epigenetic alterations on brain methylation and behavior. In addition, the impact of different diet challenges on cytosine methylation dynamics in the adult brain will be discussed. Finally, we will explore new ways to modulate DNA hydroxymethylation, which is particularly abundant in neural tissue, through diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Allison
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; (J.A.); (A.K.)
| | - Aleksandra Kaliszewska
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF, UK; (J.A.); (A.K.)
| | - Sara Uceda
- BRABE Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University of Nebrija, C/del Hostal, 28248 Madrid, Spain; (S.U.); (M.R.)
| | - Manuel Reiriz
- BRABE Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University of Nebrija, C/del Hostal, 28248 Madrid, Spain; (S.U.); (M.R.)
| | - Natalia Arias
- BRABE Group, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University of Nebrija, C/del Hostal, 28248 Madrid, Spain; (S.U.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Neurosciences of the Principality of Asturias (INEUROPA), 33003 Oviedo, Spain
- Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias—ISPA, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-452-1101
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Cao C, Gilbert ER, Cline MA. DNA methylation-modifiers reduced food intake in juvenile chickens (Gallus gallus) and Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). Neurosci Lett 2021; 764:136230. [PMID: 34500001 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136230] [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: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
S-Adenosylmethionine (SAM) is the major endogenous methyl donor for methyltransferase reactions, while 5-Azacytidine (AZA) is a synthetic drug inhibiting DNA methyltransferase activity. Both molecules can thus influence DNA methylation patterns in an organism and thereby affect gene expression and ultimately behavior in the long-term. Whether or not effects on behavior are exerted on a shorter time scale is unclear. The goal of this study was to explore the direct effects of SAM and AZA on appetite regulation, using broiler chicken and Japanese quail as the animal models. Fed or 180 min-fasted broilers (at day 4 post-hatch) or 360 min-fasted quail (at day 7 post-hatch) were intracerebroventricularly injected with SAM or AZA and food intake was measured for 360 min. For broilers, there was no effect of AZA, at any dose, on food intake in either fed or fasted chicks at any time point. In contrast, 1 and 10 µg doses of SAM reduced food intake in fed chicks at 60 min post-injection. In fasted chicks, although there were no differences for the first 30 min post-injection, SAM suppressed food intake during the second 30-min period. For quail, however, AZA (25 µg dose) decreased food intake at 60 and 150-360 min post-injection in fasted birds. A reduction in food intake was also observed at 120- and 360-min post-injection in fed quail in response to 5 and 25 µg doses of AZA, respectively. SAM had no effect when quail were fasted, whereas 1 µg dose of SAM suppressed food consumption in fed quail during the third 30-min period. Thus, when administered directly into the central nervous system, SAM may act as a transient appetite suppressant in both broilers and quail, whereas the direct inhibitory effect of AZA on food consumption depends on species and nutritional states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Cao
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Elizabeth R Gilbert
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Mark A Cline
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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Bekdash RA. Early Life Nutrition and Mental Health: The Role of DNA Methylation. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13093111. [PMID: 34578987 PMCID: PMC8469584 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Does the quality of our diet during early life impact our long-term mental health? Accumulating evidence suggests that nutrition interacts with our genes and that there is a strong association between the quality of diet and mental health throughout life. Environmental influences such as maternal diet during pregnancy or offspring diet have been shown to cause epigenetic changes during critical periods of development, such as chemical modifications of DNA or histones by methylation for the regulation of gene expression. One-carbon metabolism, which consists of the folate and methionine cycles, is influenced by the diet and generates S-Adenosylmethinoine (SAM), the main methyl donor for methylation reactions such as DNA and histone methylation. This review provides current knowledge on how the levels of one-carbon metabolism associated micronutrients such as choline, betaine, folate, methionine and B vitamins that play a role in brain function can impact our well-being and mental health across the lifespan. Micronutrients that act as methyl donors for SAM formation could affect global or gene methylation, altering gene expression and phenotype. Strategies should then be adopted to better understand how these nutrients work and their impact at different stages of development to provide individualized dietary recommendations for better mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rola A Bekdash
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
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8
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Offringa AK, Bourgonje AR, Schrier MS, Deth RC, van Goor H. Clinical implications of vitamin B 12 as redox-active cofactor. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:931-934. [PMID: 34312076 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin B12 is a redox-active compound containing a cobalt atom that cycles between oxidation states. Superoxide scavenging induces its oxidation, disabling activation of the enzymes methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase, disrupting gene expression and energy production. High-dosed vitamin B12 may be clinically used to reduce oxidative stress and preserve cofactor functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette K Offringa
- Microbiology and System Biology, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Arno R Bourgonje
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthew S Schrier
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Richard C Deth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Harry van Goor
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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9
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Arutjunyan AV, Kerkeshko GO, Milyutina YP, Shcherbitskaia AD, Zalozniaia IV. Prenatal Stress in Maternal Hyperhomocysteinemia: Impairments in the Fetal Nervous System Development and Placental Function. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 86:716-728. [PMID: 34225594 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297921060092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The article presents current views on maternal hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) as an important factor causing prenatal stress and impaired nervous system development in fetuses and newborns in early ontogenesis, as well as complications in adulthood. Experimental data demonstrate that prenatal HHcy (PHHcy) affects the morphological maturation of the brain and activity of its neurotransmitter systems. Cognitive deficit observed in the offspring subjected to PHHcy in experimental studies can presumably cause the predisposition to various neurodegenerative diseases, as the role of maternal HHcy in the pathogenesis such diseases has been proven in clinical studies. The review also discusses molecular mechanisms of the HHcy neurotoxic action on the nervous system development in the prenatal and early postnatal periods, which include oxidative stress, apoptosis activation, changes in the DNA methylation patterns and microRNA levels, altered expression and processing of neurotrophins, and neuroinflammation induced by an increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Special attention is given to the maternal HHcy impact on the placenta function and its possible contribution to the brain function impairments in the offspring. Published data suggest that some effects of PHHcy on the developing fetal brain can be due to the disturbances in the transport functions of the placenta resulting in an insufficient supply of nutrients necessary for the proper formation and functioning of brain structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V Arutjunyan
- Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O.Ott, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia. .,St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, St. Petersburg, 197110, Russia
| | - Gleb O Kerkeshko
- St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, St. Petersburg, 197110, Russia
| | - Yuliya P Milyutina
- Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O.Ott, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Anastasiia D Shcherbitskaia
- Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O.Ott, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.,Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 104223, Russia
| | - Irina V Zalozniaia
- Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology named after D.O.Ott, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
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10
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Vaziri A, Dus M. Brain on food: The neuroepigenetics of nutrition. Neurochem Int 2021; 149:105099. [PMID: 34133954 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Humans have known for millennia that nutrition has a profound influence on health and disease, but it is only recently that we have begun mapping the mechanisms via which the dietary environment impacts brain physiology and behavior. Here we review recent evidence on the effects of energy-dense and methionine diets on neural epigenetic marks, gene expression, and behavior in invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms. We also discuss limitations, open questions, and future directions in the emerging field of the neuroepigenetics of nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anoumid Vaziri
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Monica Dus
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
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11
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Luo J, Yu J, Peng X. Could partial nonstarch polysaccharides ameliorate cancer by altering m 6A RNA methylation in hosts through intestinal microbiota? Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2021; 62:8319-8334. [PMID: 34036843 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1927975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing scientific view that the improvement of cancer by nonstarch polysaccharides (NSPs) is mediated by intestinal microbiota. Intestinal bacteria affect the supply of methyl donor substances and influence N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation. As one of the epigenetic/epitranscriptomic modifications, m6A RNA methylation is closely related to the initiation and progression of cancers. This review summarizes the cancer-improving effects of NSPs through modulation of intestinal microbiota. It also summarizes the relationship between intestinal bacteria and the supply of methyl donor substances. Moreover, it also provides a summary of the effects of m6A RNA methylation on various types of cancer. The proposed mechanism is that, dietary consumed NSPs are utilized by specific intestinal bacteria and further reshape the microbial structure. Methyl donor substances will be directly or indirectly generated by the reshaped-microbiota, and affect the m6A RNA methylation of cancer-related and pro-carcinogenic inflammatory cytokine genes. Therefore, NSPs may change the m6A RNA methylation by affecting the methyl donor supply produced by intestinal microbiota and ameliorate cancer. This review discussed the possibility of cancer improvement of bioactive NSPs achieved by impacting RNA methylation via the intestinal microbiota, and it will offer new insights for the application of NSPs toward specific cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianming Luo
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Juntong Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xichun Peng
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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12
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Costa Dos Santos G, Renovato-Martins M, de Brito NM. The remodel of the "central dogma": a metabolomics interaction perspective. Metabolomics 2021; 17:48. [PMID: 33969452 PMCID: PMC8106972 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-021-01800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 1957, Francis Crick drew a linear diagram on a blackboard. This diagram is often called the "central dogma." Subsequently, the relationships between different steps of the "central dogma" have been shown to be considerably complex, mostly because of the emerging world of small molecules. It is noteworthy that metabolites can be generated from the diet through gut microbiome metabolism, serve as substrates for epigenetic modifications, destabilize DNA quadruplexes, and follow Lamarckian inheritance. Small molecules were once considered the missing link in the "central dogma"; however, recently they have acquired a central role, and their general perception as downstream products has become reductionist. Metabolomics is a large-scale analysis of metabolites, and this emerging field has been shown to be the closest omics associated with the phenotype and concomitantly, the basis for all omics. AIM OF REVIEW Herein, we propose a broad updated perspective for the flux of information diagram centered in metabolomics, including the influence of other factors, such as epigenomics, diet, nutrition, and the gut- microbiome. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW Metabolites are the beginning and the end of the flux of information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilson Costa Dos Santos
- Laboratory of NMR Metabolomics, IBRAG, Department of Genetics, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 20551-030, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Renovato-Martins
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, IB, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói, 24210-200, Brazil
| | - Natália Mesquita de Brito
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, IBRAG, Department of Cell Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 20551-030, Brazil.
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13
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Lawton A, Morgan CR, Schreiner CR, Schreiner CG, Baumann J, Upchurch B, Xu F, Price MS, Isaacs GD. Folate-Dependent Cognitive Impairment Associated With Specific Gene Networks in the Adult Mouse Hippocampus. Front Nutr 2020; 7:574730. [PMID: 33282900 PMCID: PMC7689186 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.574730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Short-term folate deficiency has been linked to cognitive defects. Given folate's role in regulating nucleotide synthesis and DNA and histone methylation, these changes are often linked to altered gene expression and might be controlled by specific regulatory networks. In our study we examined the effects of folic acid (FA) deficient or replete diets in mice, containing either no source of folate or normal FA intake, beginning post-weaning and persisting through the end of adult life at 18 months. Our goal was to assess levels of cognition in these mice using the novel object test and then connect the cognitive results to genetic changes. FA deficient mice showed significant memory impairment compared to control counterparts beginning at 5 months and persisting through 17 months, as determined by the novel object test. These deficits were associated with 363 significantly downregulated and 101 significantly upregulated genes in the deficient condition compared to the control condition in microarray analysis of hippocampal tissue. Many of these gene expression changes were determined to be specific to the hippocampus. Significant ontological categories for differential genes included nucleotide regulation, ion channel activity, and MAPK signaling; while some of these categories contain genes previously mapped to cognitive decline, other genes have not previously been associated with cognition. To determine proteins possibly involved in regulation of these genes, we performed bioinformatics analysis and found enriched motifs of for MafB and Zfp410 binding sites. These genes and enriched motifs may represent targets for treatment or investigation of memory-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Lawton
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Caroline R Morgan
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Caleb R Schreiner
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Chris G Schreiner
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Jacqueline Baumann
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Britton Upchurch
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Feifan Xu
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Michael S Price
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Science, Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg, VA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Gary D Isaacs
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
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14
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Khan MZ, Khan A, Xiao J, Dou J, Liu L, Yu Y. Overview of Folic Acid Supplementation Alone or in Combination with Vitamin B12 in Dairy Cattle during Periparturient Period. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10060263. [PMID: 32630405 PMCID: PMC7344520 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10060263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The periparturient period is the period from three weeks before calving to three weeks post-calving. This period is important in terms of health, productivity and profitability, and is fundamental to successful lactation. During this period, the animal experiences stress because of hormonal changes due to pregnancy and the significant rise in milk production. In addition, a negative energy balance usually occurs, because the demand for nutrients to sustain milk production increases by more than the nutrient supply during the periparturient period. The immunity of dairy cattle is suppressed around parturition, which increases their susceptibility to infections. Special care regarding nutrition can reduce the risks of metabolism and immunity depression, which dairy cattle face during the periparturient span. Folic acid is relevant in this regard because of its critical role in the metabolism to maintain lactational performance and to improve health. Being a donor of one-carbon units, folic acid has a vital role in DNA and RNA biosynthesis. Generally, the folic acid requirements of dairy cattle can be met by the microbial synthesis in the rumen; however, in special cases, such as during the periparturient period, the requirement for this vitamin strictly increases. Vitamin B12 also has a critical role in the metabolism as a coenzyme of the enzyme methionine synthase for the transfer of a methyl group from folic acid to homocysteine for the regeneration of methionine. In the current review, we highlight the issues facing periparturient dairy cattle, and relevant knowledge and practices, and point out future research directions for utilization of the associated vitamins in ruminants, especially during the periparturient period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Zahoor Khan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture & National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (M.Z.K.); (A.K.); (J.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Adnan Khan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture & National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (M.Z.K.); (A.K.); (J.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Jianxin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Beijing Engineering Technology Research, Center of Raw Milk Quality and Safety Control, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China;
| | - Jinhuan Dou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture & National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (M.Z.K.); (A.K.); (J.D.); (L.L.)
| | - Lei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture & National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (M.Z.K.); (A.K.); (J.D.); (L.L.)
- Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture & National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (M.Z.K.); (A.K.); (J.D.); (L.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-10-627324611
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15
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Murata Y, Ikegame T, Koike S, Saito T, Ikeda M, Sasaki T, Iwata N, Kasai K, Bundo M, Iwamoto K. Global DNA hypomethylation and its correlation to the betaine level in peripheral blood of patients with schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 99:109855. [PMID: 31911076 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2019.109855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that aberrant epigenetic regulation is involved in the pathophysiology of major psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar disorder (BD). We previously showed that the plasma level of betaine (N,N,N-trimethylglycine), a methyl-group donor, was significantly decreased in patients with first episode schizophrenia (FESZ). In this study, we identified decrease of global DNA methylation level in FESZ (N = 24 patients vs N = 42 controls), and found that global DNA methylation level was inversely correlated with scores on the global assessment of functioning (GAF) scale, and positively correlated with plasma betaine level. Notably, correlations between levels of betaine and its metabolites (N,N-dimethylglycine and sarcosine, N-methylglycine) were lower or lost in FESZ plasma, but remained high in controls. We further examined global DNA methylation levels in patients with chronic SZ (N = 388) and BD (N = 414) as well as controls (N = 430), and confirmed significant hypomethylation and decreased betaine level in SZ. We also found that patients with BD type I, but not those with BD type II, showed significant global hypomethylation. These results suggest that global hypomethylation associated with decreased betaine level in blood cells is common to SZ and BD, and may reflect common pathophysiology such as psychotic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yui Murata
- Department of Molecular Brain Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Tempei Ikegame
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Koike
- Center for Evolutionary Cognitive Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeo Saito
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masashi Ikeda
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Sasaki
- Laboratory of Health Education, Graduate School of Education, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nakao Iwata
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kiyoto Kasai
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan; The International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study (UTIAS), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miki Bundo
- Department of Molecular Brain Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan; PRESTO Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama, Japan..
| | - Kazuya Iwamoto
- Department of Molecular Brain Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
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16
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Sebastiani G, Andreu-Fernández V, Herranz Barbero A, Aldecoa-Bilbao V, Miracle X, Meler Barrabes E, Balada Ibañez A, Astals-Vizcaino M, Ferrero-Martínez S, Gómez-Roig MD, García-Algar O. Eating Disorders During Gestation: Implications for Mother's Health, Fetal Outcomes, and Epigenetic Changes. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:587. [PMID: 33042925 PMCID: PMC7527592 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Eating disorders (EDs) have increased globally in women of childbearing age, related to the concern for body shape promoted in industrialized countries. Pregnancy may exacerbate a previous ED or conversely may be a chance for improving eating patterns due to the mother's concern for the unborn baby. EDs may impact pregnancy evolution and increase the risk of adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, poor fetal growth, or malformations, but the knowledge on this topic is limited. Methods: We performed a systematic review of studies on humans in order to clarify the mechanisms underpinning the adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with EDs. Results: Although unfavorable fetal development could be multifactorial, maternal malnutrition, altered hormonal pathways, low pre-pregnancy body mass index, and poor gestational weight gain, combined with maternal psychopathology and stress, may impair the evolution of pregnancy. Environmental factors such as malnutrition or substance of abuse may also induce epigenetic changes in the fetal epigenome, which mark lifelong health concerns in offspring. Conclusions: The precocious detection of dysfunctional eating behaviors in the pre-pregnancy period and an early multidisciplinary approach comprised of nutritional support, psychotherapeutic techniques, and the use of psychotropics if necessary, would prevent lifelong morbidity for both mother and fetus. Further prospective studies with large sample sizes are needed in order to design a structured intervention during every stage of pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Sebastiani
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Andreu-Fernández
- Grup de Recerca Infancia i Entorn (GRIE), Institut d'investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,Valencian International University (VIU), Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Herranz Barbero
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victoria Aldecoa-Bilbao
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Miracle
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva Meler Barrabes
- Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal-Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arantxa Balada Ibañez
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Astals-Vizcaino
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Ferrero-Martínez
- Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Dolores Gómez-Roig
- Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar García-Algar
- Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, Institut Clinic de Ginecologia, Obstetricia i Neonatologia (ICGON), Barcelona Center for Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Barcelona, Spain.,Grup de Recerca Infancia i Entorn (GRIE), Institut d'investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
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17
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Millership SJ, Van de Pette M, Withers DJ. Genomic imprinting and its effects on postnatal growth and adult metabolism. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:4009-4021. [PMID: 31270580 PMCID: PMC6785587 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03197-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Imprinted genes display parent-of-origin-specific expression with this epigenetic system of regulation found exclusively in therian mammals. Historically, defined imprinted gene functions were almost solely focused on pregnancy and the influence on the growth parameters of the developing embryo and placenta. More recently, a number of postnatal functions have been identified which converge on resource allocation, both for animals in the nest and in adults. While many of the prenatal functions of imprinted genes that have so far been described adhere to the "parental conflict" hypothesis, no clear picture has yet emerged on the functional role of imprints on postnatal metabolism. As these roles are uncovered, interest in the potential for these genes to influence postnatal metabolism and associated adult-onset disease outcomes when dysregulated has gathered pace. Here, we review the published data on imprinted genes and their influence on postnatal metabolism, starting in the nest, and then progressing through to adulthood. When observing the functional effects of these genes on adult metabolism, we must always be careful to acknowledge the influence both of direct expression in the relevant metabolic tissue, but also indirect metabolic programming effects caused by their modulation of both in utero and postnatal growth trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Millership
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK.
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK.
| | - Mathew Van de Pette
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Dominic J Withers
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK.
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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18
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Dysregulation of Epigenetic Mechanisms of Gene Expression in the Pathologies of Hyperhomocysteinemia. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133140. [PMID: 31252610 PMCID: PMC6651274 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) exerts a wide range of biological effects and is associated with a number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, neural tube defects, and cancer. Although mechanisms of HHcy toxicity are not fully uncovered, there has been a significant progress in their understanding. The picture emerging from the studies of homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism and pathophysiology is a complex one, as Hcy and its metabolites affect biomolecules and processes in a tissue- and sex-specific manner. Because of their connection to one carbon metabolism and editing mechanisms in protein biosynthesis, Hcy and its metabolites impair epigenetic control of gene expression mediated by DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA, which underlies the pathology of human disease. In this review we summarize the recent evidence showing that epigenetic dysregulation of gene expression, mediated by changes in DNA methylation and histone N-homocysteinylation, is a pathogenic consequence of HHcy in many human diseases. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of human disease induced by Hcy and its metabolites, and suggest therapeutic targets for the prevention and/or treatment.
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19
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McCoy CR, Glover ME, Flynn LT, Simmons RK, Cohen JL, Ptacek T, Lefkowitz EJ, Jackson NL, Akil H, Wu X, Clinton SM. Altered DNA Methylation in the Developing Brains of Rats Genetically Prone to High versus Low Anxiety. J Neurosci 2019; 39:3144-3158. [PMID: 30683683 PMCID: PMC6468100 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1157-15.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence of abnormal epigenetic processes playing a role in the neurobiology of psychiatric disorders, although the precise nature of these anomalies remains largely unknown. To study neurobiological (including epigenetic) factors that influence emotionality, we use rats bred for distinct behavioral responses to novelty. Rats bred for low novelty response (low responder [LR]) exhibit high levels of anxiety- and depressive-like behavior compared with high novelty responder (HR) rats. Prior work revealed distinct limbic brain development in HR versus LR rats, including altered expression of genes involved in DNA methylation. This led us to hypothesize that DNA methylation differences in the developing brain drive the disparate HR/LR neurobehavioral phenotypes. Here we report altered DNA methylation markers (altered DNA methyltransferase protein levels and increased global DNA methylation levels) in the early postnatal amygdala of LR versus HR male rats. Next-generation sequencing methylome profiling identified numerous differentially methylated regions across the genome in the early postnatal HR/LR amygdala. We also contrasted methylation profiles of male HRs and LRs with a control rat strain that displays an intermediate behavioral phenotype relative to the HR/LR extremes; this revealed that the LR amygdalar methylome was abnormal, with the HR profile more closely resembling that of the control group. Finally, through two methylation manipulations in early life, we found that decreasing DNA methylation in the developing male and female amygdala improves adult anxiety- and depression-like behavior. These findings suggest that inborn DNA methylation differences play important roles in shaping brain development and lifelong emotional behavior.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Epigenetic changes are biological mechanisms that regulate the expression and function of genes throughout the brain and body. DNA methylation, one type of epigenetic mechanism, is known to be altered in brains of psychiatric patients, which suggests a role for DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety. The present study examines brains of rats that display high versus low levels of anxiety- and depression-like behavior to investigate how neural DNA methylation levels differ in these animals and how such differences shape their emotional behavioral differences. Studying how epigenetic processes affect emotional behavior may improve our understanding of the neurobiology of psychiatric disorders and lead to improved treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rebecca K Simmons
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Crawley WA 6009 Australia
| | | | - Travis Ptacek
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Department of Microbiology
| | - Elliot J Lefkowitz
- Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Department of Microbiology
| | - Nateka L Jackson
- Department of Cellular, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, and
| | - Huda Akil
- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Xiaowei Wu
- Department of Statistics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
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20
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Phillips NLH, Roth TL. Animal Models and Their Contribution to Our Understanding of the Relationship Between Environments, Epigenetic Modifications, and Behavior. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10010047. [PMID: 30650619 PMCID: PMC6357183 DOI: 10.3390/genes10010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of non-human animals in research is a longstanding practice to help us understand and improve human biology and health. Animal models allow researchers, for example, to carefully manipulate environmental factors in order to understand how they contribute to development, behavior, and health. In the field of behavioral epigenetics such approaches have contributed novel findings of how the environment physically interacts with our genes, leading to changes in behavior and health. This review highlights some of this research, focused on prenatal immune challenges, environmental toxicants, diet, and early-life stress. In conjunction, we also discuss why animal models were integral to these discoveries and the translational relevance of these discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Ledo Husby Phillips
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
| | - Tania L Roth
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Delaware, 108 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
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21
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Sahara Y, Matsuzawa D, Ishii D, Fuchida T, Goto T, Sutoh C, Shimizu E. Paternal methyl donor deficient diets during development affect male offspring behavior and memory-related gene expression in mice. Dev Psychobiol 2018; 61:17-28. [DOI: 10.1002/dev.21801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Sahara
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - Daisuke Matsuzawa
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
- Research Center for Child Mental Development; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - Daisuke Ishii
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
- Center for Medical Sciences; Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences; Ibaraki Japan
| | - Takahiro Fuchida
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - Takashi Goto
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - Chihiro Sutoh
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
- Research Center for Child Mental Development; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - Eiji Shimizu
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
- Research Center for Child Mental Development; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
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22
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Zeng P, Shi Y, Wang XM, Lin L, Du YJ, Tang N, Wang Q, Fang YY, Wang JZ, Zhou XW, Lu Y, Tian Q. Emodin Rescued Hyperhomocysteinemia-Induced Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease-Like Features in Rats. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 22:57-70. [PMID: 30407508 PMCID: PMC6313134 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperhomocysteinemia is an independent risk factor for dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Lowering homocysteine levels with folic acid treatment with or without vitamin B12 has shown few clinical benefits on cognition. METHODS To verify the effect of emodin, a naturally active compound from Rheum officinale, on hyperhomocysteinemia-induced dementia, rats were treated with homocysteine injection (HCY, 400 μg/kg/d, 2 weeks) via vena caudalis. Afterwards, HCY rats with cognitive deficits were administered intragastric emodin at different concentrations for 2 weeks: 0 (HCY-E0), 20 (HCY-E20), 40 (HCY-E40), and 80 mg/kg/d (HCY-E80). RESULTS β-Amyloid overproduction, tau hyperphosphorylation, and losses of neuron and synaptic proteins were detected in the hippocampi of HCY-E0 rats with cognitive deficits. HCY-E40 and HCY-E80 rats had better behavioral performance. Although it did not reduce the plasma homocysteine level, emodin (especially 80 mg/kg/d) reduced the levels of β-amyloid and tau phosphorylation, decreased the levels of β-site amyloid precursor protein-cleaving enzyme 1, and improved the activity of protein phosphatase 2A. In the hippocampi of HCY-E40 and HCY-E80 rats, the neuron numbers, levels of synaptic proteins, and phosphorylation of the cAMP responsive element-binding protein at Ser133 were increased. In addition, depressed microglial activation and reduced levels of 5-lipoxygenase, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor α were also observed. Lastly, hyperhomocysteinemia-induced microangiopathic alterations, oxidative stress, and elevated DNA methyltransferases 1 and 3β were rescued by emodin. CONCLUSIONS Emodin represents a novel potential candidate agent for hyperhomocysteinemia-induced dementia and Alzheimer's disease-like features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zeng
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Shi
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Lin
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan-Jun Du
- Hubei University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Tang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qun Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying-Yan Fang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian-Zhi Wang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Wen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Youming Lu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Correspondence: Dr Youming Lu and Dr Qing Tian, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, China (, )
| | - Qing Tian
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Neurological Disease of National Education Ministry and Hubei Province, Institute for Brain Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Correspondence: Dr Youming Lu and Dr Qing Tian, Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hangkong Road, Wuhan 430030, China (, )
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23
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Romano KA, Rey FE. Is maternal microbial metabolism an early-life determinant of health? Lab Anim (NY) 2018; 47:239-243. [PMID: 30143761 DOI: 10.1038/s41684-018-0129-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence suggests that environmental stress experienced in utero (for example, maternal nutritional deficits) establishes a predisposition in the newborn to the development of chronic diseases later in life. This concept is often referred to as the "fetal origins hypothesis" or "developmental origins of health and disease". Since its first proposal, epigenetics has emerged as an underlying mechanism explaining how environmental cues become gestationally "encoded". Many of the enzymes that impart and maintain epigenetic modifications are highly sensitive to nutrient availability, which can be influenced by the metabolic activities of the intestinal microbiota. Therefore, the maternal microbiome has the potential to influence epigenetics in utero and modulate offspring's long-term health trajectories. Here we summarize the current understanding of the interactions that occur between the maternal gut microbiome and the essential nutrient choline, that is not only required for fetal development and epigenetic regulation but is also a growth substrate for some microbes. Bacteria able to metabolize choline benefit from the presence of this nutrient and compete with the host for its access, which under extreme conditions may elicit signatures of choline deficiency. Another consequence of bacterial choline metabolism is the accumulation of the pro-inflammatory, pro-thrombotic metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). Finally, we discuss how these different facets of microbial choline metabolism may influence infant development and health trajectories via epigenetic mechanisms and more broadly place a call to action to better understand how maternal microbial metabolism can shape their offspring's propensity to chronic disease development later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Federico E Rey
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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A paternal methyl donor depleted diet leads to increased anxiety- and depression-like behavior in adult rat offspring. Biosci Rep 2018; 38:BSR20180730. [PMID: 29945927 PMCID: PMC6153370 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation elicit lasting changes in gene expression and likely mediate gene-environment interactions that shape brain development, behavior, and emotional health. Myriad environmental factors influence DNA methylation, including methyl donor content in the paternal diet, could influence methylation in offspring via changes in the paternal germ line. The present study examines the effects of paternal methyl donor dietary deficiency on offspring's emotional behaviors, including anxiety, social interaction, and depression-like behavior. We previously found that rats bred to display high levels of anxiety- and depression-like behavior exhibit diminished DNA methylation in the amygdala. We also observed that depleting dietary methyl donor content exacerbated the rats' already high levels of anxiety- and depression-like behavior. Here we sought to determine whether paternal dietary methyl donor depletion elicits intergenerational effects on first generation (F1) offspring's behavior (potentially triggering a similar increase in anxiety- and/or depression-like behavior). Thus, adult male rats prone to high anxiety/depression-like behavior, were fed either a methyl donor depleted (DEP) or control (CON) diet for 5 weeks prior to mating. They were paired with females and resultant F1 male offspring were subjected to a behavioral test battery in adulthood. F1-DEP offspring showed a similar behavioral profile to the F0 males, including greater depression-like behavior in the forced swim test (FST) and increased anxiety-like behavior in the open field test (OFT). Future work will interrogate molecular changes in the brains of F1 offspring that mediate these intergenerational effects of paternal methyl donor dietary content on offspring emotional behavior.
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Abbasi IHR, Abbasi F, Wang L, Abd El Hack ME, Swelum AA, Hao R, Yao J, Cao Y. Folate promotes S-adenosyl methionine reactions and the microbial methylation cycle and boosts ruminants production and reproduction. AMB Express 2018; 8:65. [PMID: 29687201 PMCID: PMC5913057 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-018-0592-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Folate has gained significant attention due to its vital role in biological methylation and epigenetic machinery. Folate, or vitamin (B9), is only produced through a de novo mechanism by plants and micro-organisms in the rumen of mature animals. Although limited research has been conducted on folate in ruminants, it has been noted that ruminal synthesis could not maintain folate levels in high yielding dairy animals. Folate has an essential role in one-carbon metabolism and is a strong antiproliferative agent. Folate increases DNA stability, being crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, the methylation cycle, and preventing oxidation of DNA by free radicals. Folate is also critical for cell division, metabolism of proteins, synthesis of purine and pyrimidine, and increasing the de novo delivery of methyl groups and S-adenosylmethionine. However, in ruminants, metabolism of B12 and B9 vitamins are closely connected and utilization of folate by cells is significantly affected by B12 vitamin concentration. Supplementation of folate through diet, particularly in early lactation, enhanced metabolic efficiency, lactational performance, and nutritional quality of milk. Impaired absorption, oxidative degradation, or deficient supply of folate in ruminants affects DNA stability, cell division, homocysteine remethylation to methionine, de novo synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine, and increases DNA hypomethylation, uracil misincorporation into DNA, chromosomal damage, abnormal cell growth, oxidative species, premature birth, low calf weight, placental tube defects, and decreases production and reproduction of ruminant animals. However, more studies are needed to overcome these problems and reduce enormous dietary supplement waste and impaired absorption of folate in ruminants. This review was aimed to highlight the vital role of folic acid in ruminants performance.
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Aging and nutrition induce tissue-specific changes on global DNA methylation status in rats. Mech Ageing Dev 2018; 174:47-54. [PMID: 29427568 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
A number of epigenetic studies have demonstrated that DNA methylation patterns exhibit a tissue specificity, but not much has been done to highlight the extent of this phenomenon. Moreover, it is unknown how external factors modulate the plasticity of the tissue specific epigenetic profile. We examined global DNA methylation profiles in tissues from rats of different age, fed with standard or low-calorie diet, and evaluated their association with aging and nutrition. Tissue-specific variations occur during aging with hyper-methylation taking place in all tissues except for liver. The expression of enzymes involved in methylation reactions (DNMTs and TETs) was consistent with the methylation patterns. Nutrition affects global DNA methylation status throughout lifespan. Interestingly, the differences among different tissues are magnified in 96 weeks old rats fed with low calorie diet. Moreover, the low-calorie diet appears to affect the offspring's epigenetic status more strongly if administered during the maternal pre-gestational period than the gestational and lactation time. Therefore, we propose that changes in the global DNA methylation status may represent an epigenetic mechanism by which age and nutrition intersect each other and, in turn, influence the aging plasticity.
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Low and high dietary folic acid levels perturb postnatal cerebellar morphology in growing rats. Br J Nutr 2017; 115:1967-77. [PMID: 27153204 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114516001008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The brain is particularly sensitive to folate metabolic disturbances, because methyl groups are critical for brain functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different dietary levels of folic acid (FA) on postnatal cerebellar morphology, including the architecture and organisation of the various layers. A total of forty male OFA rats (a Sprague-Dawley strain), 5 weeks old, were classified into the following four dietary groups: FA deficient (0 mg/kg FA); FA supplemented (8 mg/kg FA); FA supra-supplemented (40 mg/kg FA); and control (2 mg/kg FA) (all n 10 per group). Rats were fed ad libitum for 30 d. The cerebellum was quickly removed and processed for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Slides were immunostained for glial fibrillary acidic protein (to label Bergmann glia), calbindin (to label Purkinje cells) and NeuN (to label post-mitotic neurons). Microscopic analysis revealed two types of defect: partial disappearance of fissures and/or neuronal ectopia, primarily in supra-supplemented animals (incidence of 80 %, P≤0·01), but also in deficient and supplemented groups (incidence of 40 %, P≤0·05), compared with control animals. The primary fissure was predominantly affected, sometimes accompanied by defects in the secondary fissure. Our findings show that growing rats fed an FA-modified diet, including both deficient and supplemented diets, have an increased risk of disturbances in cerebellar corticogenesis. Defects caused by these diets may have functional consequences in later life. The present study is the first to demonstrate that cerebellar morphological defects can arise from deficient, as well as high, FA levels in the diet.
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Lupu DS, Orozco LD, Wang Y, Cullen JM, Pellegrini M, Zeisel SH. Altered methylation of specific DNA loci in the liver of Bhmt-null mice results in repression of Iqgap2 and F2rl2 and is associated with development of preneoplastic foci. FASEB J 2017; 31:2090-2103. [PMID: 28179424 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201601169r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Folate B12-dependent remethylation of homocysteine is important, but less is understood about the importance of the alternative betaine-dependent methylation pathway-catalyzed by betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT)-for establishing and maintaining adequate DNA methylation across the genome. We studied C57Bl/6J Bhmt (betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase)-null mice at age 4, 12, 24, and 52 wk (N = 8) and observed elevation of S-adenosylhomocysteine concentrations and development of preneoplastic foci in the liver (increased placental glutathione S-transferase and cytokeratin 8-18 activity; starting at 12 wk). At 4 wk, we identified 63 differentially methylated CpGs (DMCs; false discovery rate < 5%) proximal to 81 genes (across 14 chromosomes), of which 18 were differentially expressed. Of these DMCs, 52% were located in one 15.5-Mb locus on chromosome 13, which encompassed the Bhmt gene and defined a potentially sensitive region with mostly decreased methylation. Analyzing Hybrid Mouse Diversity Panel data, which consisted of 100 inbred strains of mice, we identified 97 DMCs that were affected by Bhmt genetic variation in the same region, with 7 overlapping those found in Bhmt-null mice (P < 0.001). At all time points, we found a hypomethylated region mapping to Iqgap2 (IQ motif-containing GTPase activating protein 2) and F2rl2 (proteinase-activated receptor-3), 2 genes that were also silenced and underexpressed, respectively.-Lupu, D. S., Orozco, L. D., Wang, Y., Cullen, J. M., Pellegrini, M., Zeisel, S. H. Altered methylation of specific DNA loci in the liver of Bhmt-null mice results in repression of Iqgap2 and F2rl2 and is associated with development of preneoplastic foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Lupu
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Luz D Orozco
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Medicine, Xin Hua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - John M Cullen
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steven H Zeisel
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA;
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Chakraborty N, Muhie S, Kumar R, Gautam A, Srinivasan S, Sowe B, Dimitrov G, Miller SA, Jett M, Hammamieh R. Contributions of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on cerebral neurobiology: an integrated omics approach with epigenomic focus. J Nutr Biochem 2017; 42:84-94. [PMID: 28152499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The epigenetic landscape is vulnerable to diets. Here, we investigated the influence of different polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) dietary supplements on rodents' nervous system development and functions and potential consequences to neurodegenerative disorders. Our previous nutrigenomics study showed significant impact of high n-3 PUFA-enriched diet (ERD) on synaptogenesis and various neuromodulators. The present study introduced a second equicaloric diet with n-6 PUFA balanced by n-3 PUFA (BLD). The typical lab diet with high n-6 PUFA was the baseline. Transcriptomic and epigenetic investigations, namely microRNA (miRNA) and DNA methylation assays, were carried out on the hemibrains of the C57BL/6j mice fed on any of these three diets from their neonatal age to midlife. Integrating the multiomics data, we focused on the genes encoding both hypermethylated CpG islands and suppressed transcripts. In addition, miRNA:mRNA pairs were screened to identify those overexpressed miRNAs that reduced transcriptional expressions. The majority of miRNAs overexpressed by BLD are associated with Alzheimer's and schizophrenia. BLD implicated long-term potentiation, memory, cognition and learning, primarily via hypermethylation of those genes that enrich the calcium-releasing neurotransmitters. ERD caused hypermethylation of those genes that enrich cytoskeletal development networks and promote the formation of neuronal precursors. We drew the present observations in light of our limited knowledge regarding the epigenetic influences on biofunctions. A more comprehensive study is essential to understand the broad influences of dietary supplements and to suggest optimal dietary solutions for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabarun Chakraborty
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA, USA 98402
| | - Seid Muhie
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA, USA 98402
| | - Raina Kumar
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; Advanced Biomedical Computing Center, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702
| | - Aarti Gautam
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010
| | - Seshamalini Srinivasan
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA, USA 98402
| | - Bintu Sowe
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA, USA 98402
| | - George Dimitrov
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; Advanced Biomedical Computing Center, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702
| | - Stacy-Ann Miller
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010; The Geneva Foundation, Tacoma, WA, USA 98402
| | - Marti Jett
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Frederick, MD, USA 21702-5010.
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Thaler L, Steiger H. Eating Disorders and Epigenetics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 978:93-103. [PMID: 28523542 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-53889-1_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by intense preoccupation with shape and weight and maladaptive eating practices. The complex of symptoms that characterize EDs often arise through the activation of latent genetic potentials by environmental exposures, and epigenetic mechanisms are believed to link environmental exposures to gene expression. This chapter provides an overview of genetic factors acting in the etiology of EDs. It then provides a background to the hypothesis that epigenetic mechanisms link stresses such as obstetric complications and childhood abuse as well as effects of malnutrition to eating disorders (EDs). The chapter then summarizes the emerging body of literature on epigenetics and EDs-mainly studies on DNA methylation in samples of anorexia and bulimia. The available evidence base suggests that an epigenetically informed perspective contributes in valuable ways to the understanding of why people develop EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Thaler
- Eating Disorders Continuum, Douglas Institute, Montreal West Island Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Verdun, QC, Canada, H4H 1R3. .,Psychiatry Department, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada, H3A 1Y2.
| | - Howard Steiger
- Eating Disorders Continuum, Douglas Institute, Montreal West Island Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre, 6875 LaSalle Blvd, Verdun, QC, Canada, H4H 1R3.,Psychiatry Department, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada, H3A 1Y2
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31
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McCoy CR, Jackson NL, Day J, Clinton SM. Genetic predisposition to high anxiety- and depression-like behavior coincides with diminished DNA methylation in the adult rat amygdala. Behav Brain Res 2016; 320:165-178. [PMID: 27965039 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Understanding biological mechanisms that shape vulnerability to emotional dysfunction is critical for elucidating the neurobiology of psychiatric illnesses like anxiety and depression. To elucidate molecular and epigenetic alterations in the brain that contribute to individual differences in emotionality, our laboratory utilized a rodent model of temperamental differences. Rats bred for low response to novelty (Low Responders, LRs) are inhibited in novel situations and display high anxiety, helplessness, and diminished sociability compared to High Novelty Responder (HR) rats. Our current transcriptome profiling experiment identified widespread gene expression differences in the amygdala of adult HR/LR rats; we hypothesize that HR/LR gene expression and downstream behavioral differences stem from distinct epigenetic (specifically DNA methylation) patterning in the HR/LR brain. Although we found similar levels of DNA methyltransferase proteins in the adult HR/LR amygdala, next-generation sequencing analysis of the methylome revealed 793 differentially methylated genomic sites between the groups. Most of the differentially methylated sites were hypermethylated in HR versus LR, so we next tested the hypothesis that enhancing DNA methylation in LRs would improve their anxiety/depression-like phenotype. We found that increasing DNA methylation in LRs (via increased dietary methyl donor content) improved their anxiety-like behavior and decreased their typically high levels of Forced Swim Test (FST) immobility; however, dietary methyl donor depletion exacerbated LRs' high FST immobility. These data are generally consistent with findings in depressed patients showing that treatment with DNA methylation-promoting agents improves depressive symptoms, and highlight epigenetic mechanisms that may contribute to individual differences in risk for emotional dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea R McCoy
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Nateka L Jackson
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham AL, USA
| | - Jeremy Day
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham AL, USA
| | - Sarah M Clinton
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA.
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32
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Koturbash I, Jadavji NM, Kutanzi K, Rodriguez-Juarez R, Kogosov D, Metz GA, Kovalchuk O. Fractionated low-dose exposure to ionizing radiation leads to DNA damage, epigenetic dysregulation, and behavioral impairment. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2016; 2:dvw025. [PMID: 29492301 PMCID: PMC5804539 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvw025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Studies of Fractionated Exposure to Low Doses of Ionizing Radiation (FELDIR) has become of increasing importance to clinical interventions. Its consequences on DNA damage, physical, and mental health have been insufficiently investigated, however. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of FELDIR on the brain using a mouse model. We addressed the levels of DNA damage, global genomic methylation, and DNA methylation machinery in cerebellum, frontal lobe, olfactory bulb and hippocampal tissues, as well as behavioral changes linked to FELDIR exposure. The results reveal increased levels of DNA damage, as reflected by increased occurrence of DNA Strand Breaks (SBs) and dysregulation of stress-response kinase p38. FELDIR also resulted in initial loss of global genomic methylation and altered expression of methyltransferases DNMT1 (down-regulation) and DNMT3a (up-regulation), as well as methyl-binding protein MeCP2 (up-regulation). FELDIR-associated behavioral changes included impaired skilled limb placement on a ladder rung task, increased rearing activity in an open field, and elevated anxiety-like behaviors. The said alterations showed significant dose and tissue specificity. Thus, FELDIR represents a critical impact on DNA integrity and behavioral outcomes that need to be considered in the design of clinical intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Koturbash
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
| | - Nafisa M. Jadavji
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
| | - Kristy Kutanzi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
| | - Rocio Rodriguez-Juarez
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
| | - Dmitry Kogosov
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
| | - Gerlinde A.S. Metz
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
- Alberta Epigenetics Network, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada T1K3M4
- Alberta Epigenetics Network, Calgary, AB, Canada
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Effect of Methionine Restriction on Bone Density and NK Cell Activity. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:3571810. [PMID: 27882323 PMCID: PMC5110873 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3571810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Methionine restriction (MR) is proven to increase the lifespan; and it also affects the bone density and the innate immune system. The aim of this study is to explore the effect of methionine restriction on bone density and natural killer (NK) cells. C57BL/6J mice were subjected to either basal diet (BD, containing 0.80% methionine) or methionine-restricted diet (containing 0.14% methionine). Mice with MR diet displayed reduced bone mass and decrease in the cytotoxicity of NK from the spleen, compared to BD animals. Also, mice with MR diet had an inferior body weight (P < 0.05) and higher plasma levels of adiponectin and FGF21 (P < 0.05) but lower concentrations of leptin and IGF-1 (P < 0.05). Overall, the investigation shows that methionine affects bone density and NK cell cytotoxicity.
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34
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Zhang Y, Yu B, He J, Chen D. From Nutrient to MicroRNA: a Novel Insight into Cell Signaling Involved in Skeletal Muscle Development and Disease. Int J Biol Sci 2016; 12:1247-1261. [PMID: 27766039 PMCID: PMC5069446 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.16463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is a remarkably complicated organ comprising many different cell types, and it plays an important role in lifelong metabolic health. Nutrients, as an external regulator, potently regulate skeletal muscle development through various internal regulatory factors, such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and microRNAs (miRNAs). As a nutrient sensor, mTOR, integrates nutrient availability to regulate myogenesis and directly or indirectly influences microRNA expression. MiRNAs, a class of small non-coding RNAs mediating gene silencing, are implicated in myogenesis and muscle-related diseases. Meanwhile, growing evidence has emerged supporting the notion that the expression of myogenic miRNAs could be regulated by nutrients in an epigenetic mechanism. Therefore, this review presents a novel insight into the cell signaling network underlying nutrient-mTOR-miRNA pathway regulation of skeletal myogenesis and summarizes the epigenetic modifications in myogenic differentiation, which will provide valuable information for potential therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, P. R. China.; Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Bing Yu
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, P. R. China.; Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Jun He
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, P. R. China.; Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, China
| | - Daiwen Chen
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, Sichuan 625014, P. R. China.; Key Laboratory of Animal Disease-Resistance Nutrition, Ministry of Education, China
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McCoy CR, Rana S, Stringfellow SA, Day JJ, Wyss JM, Clinton SM, Kerman IA. Neonatal maternal separation stress elicits lasting DNA methylation changes in the hippocampus of stress-reactive Wistar Kyoto rats. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 44:2829-2845. [PMID: 27643783 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Early-life stress (ELS) can alter neurodevelopment in variable ways, ranging from producing deleterious outcomes to stress resilience. While most ELS studies focus on its harmful effects, recent work by our laboratory and others shows that ELS elicits positive effects in certain individuals. We exposed Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats, known for a stress reactive, anxiety/depression-like phenotype, to maternal separation (MS), a model of ELS. MS exposure elicited anxiolytic and antidepressant behavioral effects as well as improved cardiovascular function in adult WKY offspring. This study interrogates an epigenetic mechanism (DNA methylation) that may confer the adaptive effects of MS in WKY offspring. We quantified global genome methylation levels in limbic brain regions of adult WKYs exposed to daily 180-min MS or neonatal handling from postnatal day 1-14. MS exposure triggered dramatic DNA hypermethylation specifically in the hippocampus. Next-generation sequencing methylome profiling revealed reduced methylation at intragenic sites within two key nodes of insulin signaling pathways: the insulin receptor and one of its major downstream targets, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 5 (Map3k5). We then tested the hypothesis that enhancing DNA methylation in WKY rats would elicit adaptive changes akin to the effects of MS. Dietary methyl donor supplementation improved WKY rats' anxiety/depression-like behaviors and also improved cardiovascular measures, similar to previous observations following MS. Overall, these data suggest a potential molecular mechanism that mediates a predicted adaptive response, whereby ELS induces DNA methylation changes in the brain that may contribute to successful stress coping and adaptive physiological changes in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea R McCoy
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech University, 1981 Kraft Drive, 2012 ILSB, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Samir Rana
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Jeremy J Day
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - J Michael Wyss
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Sarah M Clinton
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech University, 1981 Kraft Drive, 2012 ILSB, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA
| | - Ilan A Kerman
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech University, 1981 Kraft Drive, 2012 ILSB, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA, USA
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Folate deprivation induces cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and apoptosis in hippocampal neuron cells through down-regulation of IGF-1 signaling pathway. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 79:222-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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37
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Sun Q, Yang Y, Li X, He B, Jia Y, Zhang N, Zhao R. Folate deprivation modulates the expression of autophagy- and circadian-related genes in HT-22 hippocampal neuron cells through GR-mediated pathway. Steroids 2016; 112:12-9. [PMID: 27133904 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Folic acid (FA) is an extremely important nutrient for brain formation and development. FA deficiency is highly linked to brain degeneration and age-related diseases, which are also associated with autophagic activities and circadian rhythm in hippocampal neurons. However, little is known how autophagy- and circadian-related genes in hippocampal neurons are regulated under FA deficiency. Here, hippocampal neuroncells (HT-22) were employed to determine the effect of FA deprivation (FD) on the expression of relevant genes and to reveal the potential role of glucocorticoid receptor (GR). FD increased autophagic activities in HT-22 cells, associated with significantly (P<0.05) enhanced GR activation indicated by higher ratio of GR phosphorylation. Out of 17 autophagy-related genes determined, 8 was significantly (P<0.05) up-regulated in FD group, which includes ATG2b, ATG3, ATG4c, ATG5, ATG10, ATG12, ATG13 and ATG14. Meanwhile, 4 out of 7 circadian-related genes detected, Clock, Cry1, Cry2 and Per2, were significantly (P<0.05) up-regulated. The protein content of autophagy markers, LC3A and LC3B, was also increased significantly (P<0.05). ChIP assay showed that FD promoted (P<0.05) GR binding to the promoter sequence of ATG3 and Per2. Moreover, MeDIP analysis demonstrated significant (P<0.05) hypomethylation in the promoter sequence of ATG12, ATG13 and Per2 genes. Together, we speculate that FD increases the transcription of autophagy- and circadian-related genes through, at least partly, GR-mediated pathway. Our results provide a basis for future investigations into the intracellular regulatory network in response to folate deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinwei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Xi Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Bin He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Yimin Jia
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Nana Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
| | - Ruqian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Meat Production and Processing, Quality and Safety Control, Nanjing 210095, PR China.
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Eating disorders, gene-environment interactions and the epigenome: Roles of stress exposures and nutritional status. Physiol Behav 2016; 162:181-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Rathod R, Kale A, Joshi S. Novel insights into the effect of vitamin B₁₂ and omega-3 fatty acids on brain function. J Biomed Sci 2016; 23:17. [PMID: 26809263 PMCID: PMC4727338 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-016-0241-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of psychiatric disorders which are characterized by cognitive decline is increasing at an alarming rate and account for a significant proportion of the global disease burden. Evidences from human and animal studies indicate that neurocognitive development is influenced by various environmental factors including nutrition. It has been established that nutrition affects the brain throughout life. However, the mechanisms through which nutrition modulates mental health are still not well understood. It has been suggested that the deficiencies of both vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids can have adverse effects on cognition and synaptic plasticity. Studies indicate a need for supplementation of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, although the results of intervention trials using these nutrients in isolation are inconclusive. In the present article, we provide an overview of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, the possible mechanisms and the evidences through which vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids modulate mental health and cognition. Understanding the role of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids on brain functioning may provide important clues to prevent early cognitive deficits and later neurobehavioral disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Rathod
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune Satara Road, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Anvita Kale
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune Satara Road, Pune, 411043, India
| | - Sadhana Joshi
- Department of Nutritional Medicine, Interactive Research School for Health Affairs, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune Satara Road, Pune, 411043, India.
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40
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Huang JY, Butler LM, Wang R, Jin A, Koh WP, Yuan JM. Dietary Intake of One-Carbon Metabolism-Related Nutrients and Pancreatic Cancer Risk: The Singapore Chinese Health Study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2015; 25:417-24. [PMID: 26711329 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-15-0594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutrients involved in one-carbon metabolism are hypothesized to protect against pancreatic cancer development. METHODS The Singapore Chinese Health Study database was used to prospectively examine the association between intake of one-carbon metabolism-related nutrients and pancreatic cancer risk. Between 1993 and 1998, 63,257 men and women ages 45 to 74 years were enrolled into the cohort. The daily intakes of the following one-carbon metabolism-related nutrients were assessed at enrollment using a 165-item food frequency questionnaire: betaine, choline, folate, and vitamins B2, B6, and B12. Multivariable HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for pancreatic cancer risk associated with dietary intakes of one-carbon metabolism-related nutrients were calculated. RESULTS As of December 2013, 271 incident pancreatic cancer cases were identified during an average of 16.3 years of follow-up. Higher intakes of vitamin B6 and choline were associated with statistically significant decreases in the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Compared with the lowest quartile, HRs (95% CIs) for the highest quartiles of vitamin B6 and choline were 0.52 (0.36-0.74; P trend = 0.001) and 0.67 (0.48-0.93; P trend = 0.04), respectively. There were no clear associations between the other one-carbon metabolism-related nutrients and pancreatic cancer risk. CONCLUSION Our study suggests that higher intake of vitamin B6 and choline may lower the risk of pancreatic cancer. IMPACT Our prospective findings are consistent with the in vivo evidence for protective roles of vitamin B6 and choline on pancreatic cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Y Huang
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lesley M Butler
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
| | - Renwei Wang
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Aizhen Jin
- National Registry of Diseases Office, Health Promotion Board, Singapore
| | - Woon-Puay Koh
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore, Singapore. Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jian-Min Yuan
- Cancer Control and Population Sciences, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Paternain L, Martisova E, Campión J, Martínez JA, Ramírez MJ, Milagro FI. Methyl donor supplementation in rats reverses the deleterious effect of maternal separation on depression-like behaviour. Behav Brain Res 2015; 299:51-8. [PMID: 26628207 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Adverse early life events are associated with altered stress responsiveness and metabolic disturbances in the adult life. Dietary methyl donor supplementation could be able to reverse the negative effects of maternal separation by affecting DNA methylation in the brain. In this study, maternal separation during lactation reduced body weight gain in the female adult offspring without affecting food intake, and altered total and HDL-cholesterol levels. Also, maternal separation induced a cognitive deficit as measured by NORT and an increase in the immobility time in the Porsolt forced swimming test, consistent with increased depression-like behaviour. An 18-week dietary supplementation with methyl donors (choline, betaine, folate and vitamin B12) from postnatal day 60 also reduced body weight without affecting food intake. Some of the deleterious effects induced by maternal separation, such as the abnormal levels of total and HDL-cholesterol, but especially the depression-like behaviour as measured by the Porsolt test, were reversed by methyl donor supplementation. Also, the administration of methyl donors increased total DNA methylation (measured by immunohistochemistry) and affected the expression of insulin receptor in the hippocampus of the adult offspring. However, no changes were observed in the DNA methylation status of insulin receptor and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) promoter regions in the hypothalamus. In summary, methyl donor supplementation reversed some of the deleterious effects of an early life-induced model of depression in rats and altered the DNA methylation profile in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Paternain
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eva Martisova
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Javier Campión
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; CIBERobn, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Alfredo Martínez
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; CIBERobn, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain; IDISNA, Navarra's Health Research Institute, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J Ramírez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; IDISNA, Navarra's Health Research Institute, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Fermin I Milagro
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, c/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; CIBERobn, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de la Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
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42
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Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of diabetes risk as a consequence of early nutritional imbalances. Proc Nutr Soc 2015; 75:78-89. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665115004231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In today's world, there is an unprecedented rise in the prevalence of chronic metabolic diseases, including obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). The pathogenesis of T2D includes both genetic and environmental factors, such as excessive energy intake and physical inactivity. It has recently been suggested that environmental factors experienced during early stages of development, including the intrauterine and neonatal periods, might play a major role in predisposing individuals to T2D. Furthermore, several studies have shown that such early environmental conditions might even contribute to disease risk in further generations. In this review, we summarise recent data describing how parental nutrition during development increases the risk of diabetes in the offspring. We also discuss the potential mechanisms underlying transgenerational inheritance of metabolic disease, with particular emphasis on epigenetic mechanisms.
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43
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Morgado J, Sanches B, Anjos R, Coelho C. Programming of Essential Hypertension: What Pediatric Cardiologists Need to Know. Pediatr Cardiol 2015; 36:1327-37. [PMID: 26015087 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-015-1204-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hypertension is recognized as one of the major contributing factors to cardiovascular disease, but its etiology remains incompletely understood. Known genetic and environmental influences can only explain a small part of the variability in cardiovascular disease risk. The missing heritability is currently one of the most important challenges in blood pressure and hypertension genetics. Recently, some promising approaches have emerged that move beyond the DNA sequence and focus on identification of blood pressure genes regulated by epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification and microRNAs. This review summarizes information on gene-environmental interactions that lead toward the developmental programming of hypertension with specific reference to epigenetics and provides pediatricians and pediatric cardiologists with a more complete understanding of its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Morgado
- Pediatrics Department, Hospital do Espírito Santo de Évora, Largo Senhor da Pobreza, 7000-811, Évora, Portugal.
| | - Bruno Sanches
- Pediatrics Department, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - Rui Anjos
- Pediatric Cardiology Department, Hospital Santa Cruz, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Constança Coelho
- Genetics Laboratory, Environmental Health Institute, Lisbon Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
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Zhang N. Epigenetic modulation of DNA methylation by nutrition and its mechanisms in animals. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 1:144-151. [PMID: 29767106 PMCID: PMC5945948 DOI: 10.1016/j.aninu.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that phenotype of animals may be modified by the nutritional modulations through epigenetic mechanisms. As a key and central component of epigenetic network, DNA methylation is labile in response to nutritional influences. Alterations in DNA methylation profiles can lead to changes in gene expression, resulting in diverse phenotypes with the potential for decreased growth and health. Here, I reviewed the biological process of DNA methylation that results in the addition of methyl groups to DNA; the possible ways including methyl donors, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity and other cofactors, the critical periods including prenatal, postnatal and dietary transition periods, and tissue specific of epigenetic modulation of DNA methylation by nutrition and its mechanisms in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naifeng Zhang
- Feed Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100081, China
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45
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Liu J, Zhao SR, Reyes T. Neurological and Epigenetic Implications of Nutritional Deficiencies on Psychopathology: Conceptualization and Review of Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:18129-48. [PMID: 26251900 PMCID: PMC4581239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160818129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a role for epigenetic modifications in the pathophysiology of disease has received significant attention. Many studies are now beginning to explore the gene-environment interactions, which may mediate early-life exposure to risk factors, such as nutritional deficiencies and later development of behavioral problems in children and adults. In this paper, we review the current literature on the role of epigenetics in the development of psychopathology, with a specific focus on the potential for epigenetic modifications to link nutrition and brain development. We propose a conceptual framework whereby epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation) mediate the link between micro- and macro-nutrient deficiency early in life and brain dysfunction (e.g., structural aberration, neurotransmitter perturbation), which has been linked to development of behavior problems later on in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianghong Liu
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Sophie R Zhao
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Teresa Reyes
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, 418 Curie Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Schones DE, Leung A, Natarajan R. Chromatin Modifications Associated With Diabetes and Obesity. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2015; 35:1557-61. [PMID: 26044585 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.115.305041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of obesity across the globe has doubled over the past several decades, leading to escalating rates of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and other complications. Given this dramatic rise in disease incidence, understanding the cause of these diseases is therefore of paramount importance. Metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes mellitus, result from a multitude of genetic and environmental factors. Although the genetic basis of these diseases has been extensively studied, the molecular pathways whereby environmental factors influence disease progression are only beginning to be understood. One manner by which environmental factors can contribute to disease progression is through modifications to chromatin. The highly structured packaging of the genome into the nucleus through chromatin has been shown to be fundamental to tissue-specific gene regulation. Modifications to chromatin can regulate gene expression and are involved in a myriad of biological functions, and hence, disruption of these modifications is central to many human diseases. These modifications can furthermore be epigenetic in nature, thereby contributing to prolonged disease risk. Recent work has demonstrated that modifications to chromatin are associated with the progression of both diabetes mellitus and obesity, which is the subject of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin E Schones
- From the Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA.
| | - Amy Leung
- From the Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA
| | - Rama Natarajan
- From the Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA
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47
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Torres A, Newton SA, Crompton B, Borzutzky A, Neufeld EJ, Notarangelo L, Berry GT. CSF 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate Serial Monitoring to Guide Treatment of Congenital Folate Malabsorption Due to Proton-Coupled Folate Transporter (PCFT) Deficiency. JIMD Rep 2015; 24:91-6. [PMID: 26006721 PMCID: PMC4582027 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2015_445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hereditary folate malabsorption is characterized by folate deficiency with impaired folate transport into the central nervous system (CNS). This disease is characterized by megaloblastic anemia of early appearance, combined immunodeficiency, seizures, and cognitive impairment. The anemia and immunologic disease are responsive but neurological signs are refractory to folic-acid treatment. We report a 7-year-old girl who has congenital folate deficiency and SLC46A1 gene mutation who is unable to transport folate from her gut to the circulatory system and consequently from the blood to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As a result she developed undetectable 5-methyltetrahydrofolate levels in her plasma and CSF and became immunocompromised and quite ill. Intramuscular treatment with 5-formyltetrahydrofolate (folinic acid) was therapeutic at her presentation and has been successful preventing other signs and symptoms of hereditary folate malabsorption even at relatively low CSF levels. Although difficult, early detection and diagnosis of cerebral folate deficiency are important because folinic acid at a pharmacologic dose may normalize outcome in PCFT gene defects, as well as bypass autoantibody-blocked folate receptors and enter the cerebrospinal fluid by way of the reduced folate carrier. This route elevates the 5-methyltetrahydrofolate level within the central nervous system and can prevent the neuropsychiatric disorder. CSF levels of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate between 18 and 46 nmol/L may be sufficient to eradicate CNS disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Torres
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Boston Medical Center, Boston University Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S A Newton
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - B Crompton
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A Borzutzky
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - E J Neufeld
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - L Notarangelo
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - G T Berry
- Department of Neurology, Divisions of Hematology and Genetics and Genomics, The Manton Center for Orphan Disease Research, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Tomizawa H, Matsuzawa D, Ishii D, Matsuda S, Kawai K, Mashimo Y, Sutoh C, Shimizu E. Methyl-donor deficiency in adolescence affects memory and epigenetic status in the mouse hippocampus. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2015; 14:301-9. [DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Revised: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Tomizawa
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
| | - D. Matsuzawa
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba
| | - D. Ishii
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
| | - S. Matsuda
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
- Department of Ultrastructural Research, National Institute of Neuroscience; National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry; Kodaira
| | - K. Kawai
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
| | - Y. Mashimo
- Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba Japan
| | - C. Sutoh
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba
| | - E. Shimizu
- Department of Cognitive Behavioral Physiology
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Graduate School of Medicine; Chiba University; Chiba
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49
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Homocysteine thiolactone and N-homocysteinylated protein induce pro-atherogenic changes in gene expression in human vascular endothelial cells. Amino Acids 2015; 47:1319-39. [PMID: 25802182 PMCID: PMC4458266 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-015-1956-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Genetic or nutritional deficiencies in homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism lead to hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and cause endothelial dysfunction, a hallmark of atherosclerosis. In addition to Hcy, related metabolites accumulate in HHcy but their role in endothelial dysfunction is unknown. Here, we examine how Hcy-thiolactone, N-Hcy-protein, and Hcy affect gene expression and molecular pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. We used microarray technology, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and bioinformatic analysis with PANTHER, DAVID, and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) resources. We identified 47, 113, and 30 mRNAs regulated by N-Hcy-protein, Hcy-thiolactone, and Hcy, respectively, and found that each metabolite induced a unique pattern of gene expression. Top molecular pathways affected by Hcy-thiolactone were chromatin organization, one-carbon metabolism, and lipid-related processes [−log(P value) = 20–31]. Top pathways affected by N-Hcy-protein and Hcy were blood coagulation, sulfur amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism [−log(P value)] = 4–11; also affected by Hcy-thiolactone, [−log(P value) = 8–14]. Top disease related to Hcy-thiolactone, N-Hcy-protein, and Hcy was ‘atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease’ [−log(P value) = 9–16]. Top-scored biological networks affected by Hcy-thiolactone (score = 34–40) were cardiovascular disease and function; those affected by N-Hcy-protein (score = 24–35) were ‘small molecule biochemistry, neurological disease,’ and ‘cardiovascular system development and function’; and those affected by Hcy (score = 25–37) were ‘amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism,’ ‘cellular movement, and cardiovascular and nervous system development and function.’ These results indicate that each Hcy metabolite uniquely modulates gene expression in pathways important for vascular homeostasis and identify new genes and pathways that are linked to HHcy-induced endothelial dysfunction and vascular disease.
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50
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Mitochondria in health, aging and diseases: the epigenetic perspective. Biogerontology 2015; 16:569-85. [DOI: 10.1007/s10522-015-9562-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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