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Herrera ML, Paraíso-Luna J, Bustos-Martínez I, Barco Á. Targeting epigenetic dysregulation in autism spectrum disorders. Trends Mol Med 2024:S1471-4914(24)00162-X. [PMID: 38971705 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.06.004] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprise a range of neurodevelopmental pathologies characterized by deficits in social interaction and repetitive behaviors, collectively affecting almost 1% of the worldwide population. Deciphering the etiology of ASD has proven challenging due to the intricate interplay of genetic and environmental factors and the variety of molecular pathways affected. Epigenomic alterations have emerged as key players in ASD etiology. Their research has led to the identification of biomarkers for diagnosis and pinpointed specific gene targets for therapeutic interventions. This review examines the role of epigenetic alterations, resulting from both genetic and environmental influences, as a central causative factor in ASD, delving into its contribution to pathogenesis and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macarena L Herrera
- Instituto de Neurociencias (Universidad Miguel Hernández - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), Av. Santiago Ramón y Cajal s/n, Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | - Juan Paraíso-Luna
- Instituto de Neurociencias (Universidad Miguel Hernández - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), Av. Santiago Ramón y Cajal s/n, Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | - Isabel Bustos-Martínez
- Instituto de Neurociencias (Universidad Miguel Hernández - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), Av. Santiago Ramón y Cajal s/n, Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | - Ángel Barco
- Instituto de Neurociencias (Universidad Miguel Hernández - Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), Av. Santiago Ramón y Cajal s/n, Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain.
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2
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Yang T, Wei Q, Pang D, Cheng Y, Huang J, Lin J, Xiao Y, Jiang Q, Wang S, Li C, Shang H. Clinical and genetic characteristics of ALS patients with variants in genes regulating DNA methylation. J Neurol 2024:10.1007/s00415-024-12508-9. [PMID: 38907861 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12508-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aberrant DNA methylation alterations are implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Nevertheless, the influence of genetic variants in genes regulating DNA methylation on ALS patients is not well understood. Therefore, we aim to provide a comprehensive variant profile of genes related to DNA methylation (DNMT1, DNMT3A, DNMT3B, DNMT3L) and demethylation (TET1, TET2, TET3, TDG) and to investigate the association of these variants with ALS. METHODS Variants were screened in a cohort of 2240 ALS patients from Southwest China, using controls from the Genome Aggregation Database (n = 9976) and the China Metabolic Analytics Project (n = 10,588). The over-representation of rare variants and their association with ALS risk were evaluated using Fisher's exact test with Bonferroni correction at both allele and gene levels. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis were employed to explore the relationship between variants and survival. RESULTS A total of 210 variants meeting the criteria were identified. Gene-based burden analysis identified a significant increase in ALS risk associated with rare variants in the TET2 gene (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.29-2.88, P = 0.001). Survival analysis demonstrated that patients carrying variants in demethylation-related genes had a higher risk of death compared to those with methylation-related gene variants (HR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.03-1.86, P = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a genetic variant profile of genes involved in DNA methylation and demethylation regulation, along with the clinical characteristics of ALS patients carrying these variants. The findings offer genetic evidence implicating disrupted DNA methylation dynamics in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianmi Yang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qianqian Wei
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Dejiang Pang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yangfan Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jingxuan Huang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Junyu Lin
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yi Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qirui Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Shichan Wang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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3
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Bell-Hensley A, Beard DC, Feeney K, Zheng H, Jiang Y, Zhang X, Liu J, Gabel H, McAlinden A. Skeletal abnormalities in mice with Dnmt3a missense mutations. Bone 2024; 183:117085. [PMID: 38522809 PMCID: PMC11057337 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2024.117085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Overgrowth and intellectual disability disorders in humans are typified by length/height and/or head circumference ≥ 2 standard deviations above the mean as well as intellectual disability and behavioral comorbidities, including autism and anxiety. Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome is one type of overgrowth and intellectual disability disorder caused by heterozygous missense mutations in the DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) gene. Numerous DNMT3A mutations have been identified in Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome patients and may be associated with varying phenotype severities of clinical presentation. Two such mutations are the R882H and P904L mutations which result in severe and mild phenotypes, respectively. Mice with paralogous mutations (Dnmt3aP900L/+ and Dnmt3aR878H/+) exhibit overgrowth in their long bones (e.g., femur, humerus), but the mechanisms responsible for their skeletal overgrowth remain unknown. The goal of this study is to characterize skeletal phenotypes in mouse models of Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome and identify potential cellular mechanisms involved in the skeletal overgrowth phenotype. We report that mature mice with the Dnmt3aP900L/+ or Dnmt3aR878H/+ mutation exhibit tibial overgrowth, cortical bone thinning, and weakened bone mechanical properties. Dnmt3aR878H/+ mutants also contain larger bone marrow adipocytes while Dnmt3aP900L/+ mutants show no adipocyte phenotype compared to control animals. To understand the potential cellular mechanisms regulating these phenotypes, growth plate chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts were assessed in juvenile mutant mice using quantitative static histomorphometry and dynamic histomorphometry. Tibial growth plates appeared thicker in mutant juvenile mice, but no changes were observed in osteoblast activity or osteoclast number in the femoral mid-diaphysis. These studies reveal new skeletal phenotypes associated with Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome in mice and provide a rationale to extend clinical assessments of patients with this condition to include bone density and quality testing. These findings may be also informative for skeletal characterization of other mouse models presenting with overgrowth and intellectual disability phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Bell-Hensley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Diana C Beard
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kathryn Feeney
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Hongjun Zheng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yunhao Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xiyun Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jin Liu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Harrison Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Audrey McAlinden
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Shriners Hospital for Children - St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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4
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Tibben BM, Rothbart SB. Mechanisms of DNA Methylation Regulatory Function and Crosstalk with Histone Lysine Methylation. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168394. [PMID: 38092287 PMCID: PMC10957332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation is a well-studied epigenetic modification that has key roles in regulating gene expression, maintaining genome integrity, and determining cell fate. Precisely how DNA methylation patterns are established and maintained in specific cell types at key developmental stages is still being elucidated. However, research over the last two decades has contributed to our understanding of DNA methylation regulation by other epigenetic processes. Specifically, lysine methylation on key residues of histone proteins has been shown to contribute to the allosteric regulation of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activities. In this review, we discuss the dynamic interplay between DNA methylation and histone lysine methylation as epigenetic regulators of genome function by synthesizing key recent studies in the field. With a focus on DNMT3 enzymes, we discuss mechanisms of DNA methylation and histone lysine methylation crosstalk in the regulation of gene expression and the maintenance of genome integrity. Further, we discuss how alterations to the balance of various sites of histone lysine methylation and DNA methylation contribute to human developmental disorders and cancers. Finally, we provide perspectives on the current direction of the field and highlight areas for continued research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey M Tibben
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Scott B Rothbart
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA.
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5
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Kupke J, Klimmt J, Mudlaff F, Schwab M, Lutsik P, Plass C, Sticht C, Oliveira AMM. Dnmt3a1 regulates hippocampus-dependent memory via the downstream target Nrp1. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01843-0. [PMID: 38499720 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetic factors are well-established players in memory formation. Specifically, DNA methylation is necessary for the formation of long-term memory in multiple brain regions including the hippocampus. Despite the demonstrated role of DNA methyltransferases (Dnmts) in memory formation, it is unclear whether individual Dnmts have unique or redundant functions in long-term memory formation. Furthermore, the downstream processes controlled by Dnmts during memory consolidation have not been investigated. In this study, we demonstrated that Dnmt3a1, the predominant Dnmt in the adult brain, is required for long-term spatial object recognition and contextual fear memory. Using RNA sequencing, we identified an activity-regulated Dnmt3a1-dependent genomic program in which several genes were associated with functional and structural plasticity. Furthermore, we found that some of the identified genes are selectively dependent on Dnmt3a1, but not its isoform Dnmt3a2. Specifically, we identified Neuropilin 1 (Nrp1) as a downstream target of Dnmt3a1 and further demonstrated the involvement of Nrp1 in hippocampus-dependent memory formation. Importantly, we found that Dnmt3a1 regulates hippocampus-dependent memory via Nrp1. In contrast, Nrp1 overexpression did not rescue memory impairments triggered by reduced Dnmt3a2 levels. Taken together, our study uncovered a Dnmt3a-isoform-specific mechanism in memory formation, identified a novel regulator of memory, and further highlighted the complex and highly regulated functions of distinct epigenetic regulators in brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Kupke
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Julien Klimmt
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Franziska Mudlaff
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Maximilian Schwab
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pavlo Lutsik
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christoph Plass
- Division of Cancer Epigenomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Sticht
- Next Generation Sequencing Core Facility, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ana M M Oliveira
- Department of Neurobiology, Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences (IZN), Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Cognition Research, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68159, Mannheim, Germany.
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Moore JR, Nemera MT, D’Souza RD, Hamagami N, Clemens AW, Beard DC, Urman A, Mendoza VR, Gabel HW. Non-CG DNA methylation and MeCP2 stabilize repeated tuning of long genes that distinguish closely related neuron types. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.30.577861. [PMID: 38352532 PMCID: PMC10862856 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.30.577861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The extraordinary diversity of neuron types in the mammalian brain is delineated at the highest resolution by subtle gene expression differences that may require specialized molecular mechanisms to be maintained. Neurons uniquely express the longest genes in the genome and utilize neuron-enriched non-CG DNA methylation (mCA) together with the Rett syndrome protein, MeCP2, to control gene expression, but the function of these unique gene structures and machinery in regulating finely resolved neuron type-specific gene programs has not been explored. Here, we employ epigenomic and spatial transcriptomic analyses to discover a major role for mCA and MeCP2 in maintaining neuron type-specific gene programs at the finest scale of cellular resolution. We uncover differential susceptibility to MeCP2 loss in neuronal populations depending on global mCA levels and dissect methylation patterns and intragenic enhancer repression that drive overlapping and distinct gene regulation between neuron types. Strikingly, we show that mCA and MeCP2 regulate genes that are repeatedly tuned to differentiate neuron types at the highest cellular resolution, including spatially resolved, vision-dependent gene programs in the visual cortex. These repeatedly tuned genes display genomic characteristics, including long length, numerous intragenic enhancers, and enrichment for mCA, that predispose them to regulation by MeCP2. Thus, long gene regulation by the MeCP2 pathway maintains differential gene expression between closely-related neurons to facilitate the exceptional cellular diversity in the complex mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Russell Moore
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Mati T. Nemera
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Rinaldo D. D’Souza
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Nicole Hamagami
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Adam W. Clemens
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Diana C. Beard
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Alaina Urman
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Victoria Rodriguez Mendoza
- Opportunities in Genomic Research Program, McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Harrison W. Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
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7
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Zheng Y, Zhao C, Song Q, Xu L, Zhang B, Hu G, Kong X, Li S, Li X, Shen Y, Zhuang L, Wu M, Liu Y, Zhou Y. Histone methylation mediated by NSD1 is required for the establishment and maintenance of neuronal identities. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113496. [PMID: 37995181 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Appropriate histone modifications emerge as essential cell fate regulators of neuronal identities across neocortical areas and layers. Here we showed that NSD1, the methyltransferase for di-methylated lysine 36 of histone H3 (H3K36me2), controls both area and layer identities of the neocortex. Nsd1-ablated neocortex showed an area shift of all four primary functional regions and aberrant wiring of cortico-thalamic-cortical projections. Nsd1 conditional knockout mice displayed defects in spatial memory, motor learning, and coordination, resembling patients with the Sotos syndrome carrying NSD1 mutations. On Nsd1 loss, superficial-layer pyramidal neurons (PNs) progressively mis-expressed markers for deep-layer PNs, and PNs remained immature both morphologically and electrophysiologically. Loss of Nsd1 in postmitotic PNs causes genome-wide loss of H3K36me2 and re-distribution of DNA methylation, which accounts for diminished expression of neocortical layer specifiers but ectopic expression of non-neural genes. Together, H3K36me2 mediated by NSD1 is required for the establishment and maintenance of region- and layer-specific neocortical identities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Qiulin Song
- Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Eye Center, Wuhan University Renmin Hospital, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lichao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guangda Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiangfei Kong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Shaowen Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yin Shen
- Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Eye Center, Wuhan University Renmin Hospital, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lenan Zhuang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Min Wu
- Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; College of Life Sciences, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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8
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Nettles SA, Ikeuchi Y, Lefton KB, Abbasi L, Erickson A, Agwu C, Papouin T, Bonni A, Gabel HW. MeCP2 represses the activity of topoisomerase IIβ in long neuronal genes. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113538. [PMID: 38096051 PMCID: PMC10844882 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A unique signature of neurons is the high expression of the longest genes in the genome. These genes have essential neuronal functions, and disruption of their expression has been implicated in neurological disorders. DNA topoisomerases resolve DNA topological constraints and facilitate neuronal long gene expression. Conversely, the Rett syndrome protein, methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), can transcriptionally repress long genes. How these factors regulate long genes is not well understood, and whether they interact is not known. Here, we identify and map a functional interaction between MeCP2 and topoisomerase IIβ (TOP2β) in mouse neurons. We profile neuronal TOP2β activity genome wide, detecting enrichment at regulatory regions and gene bodies of long genes, including MeCP2-regulated genes. We show that loss and overexpression of MeCP2 alter TOP2β activity at MeCP2-regulated genes. These findings uncover a mechanism of TOP2β inhibition by MeCP2 in neurons and implicate TOP2β dysregulation in disorders caused by MeCP2 disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabin A Nettles
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yoshiho Ikeuchi
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Katheryn B Lefton
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Ladan Abbasi
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Alyssa Erickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Chibueze Agwu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Thomas Papouin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Azad Bonni
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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9
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Beard DC, Zhang X, Wu DY, Martin JR, Erickson A, Boua JV, Hamagami N, Swift RG, McCullough KB, Ge X, Bell-Hensley A, Zheng H, Palmer CW, Fuhler NA, Lawrence AB, Hill CA, Papouin T, Noguchi KK, McAlinden A, Garbow JR, Dougherty JD, Maloney SE, Gabel HW. Distinct disease mutations in DNMT3A result in a spectrum of behavioral, epigenetic, and transcriptional deficits. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113411. [PMID: 37952155 PMCID: PMC10843706 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic heterogeneity in monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders can arise from differential severity of variants underlying disease, but how distinct alleles drive variable disease presentation is not well understood. Here, we investigate missense mutations in DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A), a DNA methyltransferase associated with overgrowth, intellectual disability, and autism, to uncover molecular correlates of phenotypic heterogeneity. We generate a Dnmt3aP900L/+ mouse mimicking a mutation with mild to moderate severity and compare phenotypic and epigenomic effects with a severe R878H mutation. P900L mutants exhibit core growth and behavioral phenotypes shared across models but show subtle epigenomic changes, while R878H mutants display extensive disruptions. We identify mutation-specific dysregulated genes that may contribute to variable disease severity. Shared transcriptomic disruption identified across mutations overlaps dysregulation observed in other developmental disorder models and likely drives common phenotypes. Together, our findings define central drivers of DNMT3A disorders and illustrate how variable epigenomic disruption contributes to phenotypic heterogeneity in neurodevelopmental disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Beard
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Xiyun Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Dennis Y Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jenna R Martin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Alyssa Erickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jane Valeriane Boua
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Nicole Hamagami
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Raylynn G Swift
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Katherine B McCullough
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Xia Ge
- Department of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Austin Bell-Hensley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hongjun Zheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Cory W Palmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Nicole A Fuhler
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Austin B Lawrence
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Science, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Cheryl A Hill
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Science, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65212, USA
| | - Thomas Papouin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Kevin K Noguchi
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Audrey McAlinden
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joel R Garbow
- Department of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joseph D Dougherty
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Susan E Maloney
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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10
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Li Y, Ma L, Deng Y, Du Z, Guo B, Yue J, Liu X, Zhang Y. The Notch1/Hes1 signaling pathway affects autophagy by adjusting DNA methyltransferases expression in a valproic acid-induced autism spectrum disorder model. Neuropharmacology 2023; 239:109682. [PMID: 37543138 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
As a pervasive neurodevelopmental disease, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is caused by both hereditary and environmental elements. Research has demonstrated the functions of the Notch pathway and DNA methylation in the etiology of ASD. DNA methyltransferases DNMT3 and DNMT1 are responsible for methylation establishment and maintenance, respectively. In this study, we aimed to explore the association of DNA methyltransferases with the Notch pathway in ASD. Our results showed Notch1 and Hes1 were upregulated, while DNMT3A and DNMT3B were downregulated at the protein level in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus (HC) and cerebellum (CB) of VPA-induced ASD rats compared with Control (Con) group. However, the protein levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B were augmented after treatment with 3,5-difluorophenacetyl-L-alanyl-S-phenylglycine-2-butyl ester (DAPT), suggesting that abnormal Notch pathway activation may affect the expression of DNMT3A and DNMT3B. Besides, our previous findings revealed that the Notch pathway may participate in development of ASD by influencing autophagy. Therefore, we hypothesized the Notch pathway adjusts autophagy and contributes to ASD by affecting DNA methyltransferases. Our current results showed that after receiving the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-2'dc), the VPA + DAPT+5-Aza-2'dc (V + D + Aza) group exhibited reduced social interaction ability and increased stereotyped behaviors, and decreased expression of DNMT3A, DNMT3B and autophagy-related proteins, but did not show changes in Notch1 and Hes1 protein levels. Our results indicated that the Notch1/Hes1 pathway may adjust DNMT3A and DNMT3B expression and subsequently affect autophagy in the occurrence of ASD, providing new insight into the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Li
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Liping Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Yanan Deng
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Ziwei Du
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Bingqian Guo
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Jianing Yue
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Xianxian Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China
| | - Yinghua Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy & Histoembryology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, China.
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11
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Gupta R, Advani D, Yadav D, Ambasta RK, Kumar P. Dissecting the Relationship Between Neuropsychiatric and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:6476-6529. [PMID: 37458987 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03502-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and neuropsychiatric disorders (NPDs) are two common causes of death in elderly people, which includes progressive neuronal cell death and behavioral changes. NDDs include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron disease, characterized by cognitive defects and memory impairment, whereas NPDs include depression, seizures, migraine headaches, eating disorders, addictions, palsies, major depressive disorders, anxiety, and schizophrenia, characterized by behavioral changes. Mounting evidence demonstrated that NDDs and NPDs share an overlapping mechanism, which includes post-translational modifications, the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and signaling events. Mounting evidence demonstrated that various drug molecules, namely, natural compounds, repurposed drugs, multitarget directed ligands, and RNAs, have been potentially implemented as therapeutic agents against NDDs and NPDs. Herein, we highlighted the overlapping mechanism, the role of anxiety/stress-releasing factors, cytosol-to-nucleus signaling, and the microbiota-gut-brain axis in the pathophysiology of NDDs and NPDs. We summarize the therapeutic application of natural compounds, repurposed drugs, and multitarget-directed ligands as therapeutic agents. Lastly, we briefly described the application of RNA interferences as therapeutic agents in the pathogenesis of NDDs and NPDs. Neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric diseases both share a common signaling molecule and molecular phenomenon, namely, pro-inflammatory cytokines, γCaMKII and MAPK/ERK, chemokine receptors, BBB permeability, and the gut-microbiota-brain axis. Studies have demonstrated that any alterations in the signaling mentioned above molecules and molecular phenomena lead to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, namely, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Gupta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Dia Advani
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Divya Yadav
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Rashmi K Ambasta
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India
| | - Pravir Kumar
- Molecular Neuroscience and Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Delhi Technological University, Shahbad Daulatpur, Bawana Road, New Delhi, Delhi, 110042, India.
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12
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Maimaiti A, Turhon M, Abulaiti A, Dilixiati Y, Zhang F, Axieer A, Kadeer K, Zhang Y, Maimaitili A, Yang X. DNA methylation regulator-mediated modification patterns and risk of intracranial aneurysm: a multi-omics and epigenome-wide association study integrating machine learning, Mendelian randomization, eQTL and mQTL data. J Transl Med 2023; 21:660. [PMID: 37742034 PMCID: PMC10518114 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04512-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) pose a significant and intricate challenge. Elucidating the interplay between DNA methylation and IA pathogenesis is paramount to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic interventions. METHODS We employed a comprehensive bioinformatics investigation of DNA methylation in IA, utilizing a transcriptomics-based methodology that encompassed 100 machine learning algorithms, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Mendelian randomization (MR), and summary-data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR). Our sophisticated analytical strategy allowed for a systematic assessment of differentially methylated genes and their implications on the onset, progression, and rupture of IA. RESULTS We identified DNA methylation-related genes (MRGs) and associated molecular pathways, and the MR and SMR analyses provided evidence for potential causal links between the observed DNA methylation events and IA predisposition. CONCLUSION These insights not only augment our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of IA but also underscore potential novel biomarkers and therapeutic avenues. Although our study faces inherent limitations and hurdles, it represents a groundbreaking initiative in deciphering the intricate relationship between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors implicated in IA pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aierpati Maimaiti
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Mirzat Turhon
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Aimitaji Abulaiti
- Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | | | - Fujunhui Zhang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Aximujiang Axieer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaheerman Kadeer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China
| | - Yisen Zhang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Aisha Maimaitili
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xinjiang Medical University Affiliated First Hospital, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830017, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinjian Yang
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, 100070, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Beijing TianTan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Townley BA, Buerer L, Tsao N, Bacolla A, Mansoori F, Rusanov T, Clark N, Goodarzi N, Schmidt N, Srivatsan SN, Sun H, Sample RA, Brickner JR, McDonald D, Tsai MS, Walter MJ, Wozniak DF, Holehouse AS, Pena V, Tainer JA, Fairbrother WG, Mosammaparast N. A functional link between lariat debranching enzyme and the intron-binding complex is defective in non-photosensitive trichothiodystrophy. Mol Cell 2023; 83:2258-2275.e11. [PMID: 37369199 PMCID: PMC10483886 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The pre-mRNA life cycle requires intron processing; yet, how intron-processing defects influence splicing and gene expression is unclear. Here, we find that TTDN1/MPLKIP, which is encoded by a gene implicated in non-photosensitive trichothiodystrophy (NP-TTD), functionally links intron lariat processing to spliceosomal function. The conserved TTDN1 C-terminal region directly binds lariat debranching enzyme DBR1, whereas its N-terminal intrinsically disordered region (IDR) binds the intron-binding complex (IBC). TTDN1 loss, or a mutated IDR, causes significant intron lariat accumulation, as well as splicing and gene expression defects, mirroring phenotypes observed in NP-TTD patient cells. A Ttdn1-deficient mouse model recapitulates intron-processing defects and certain neurodevelopmental phenotypes seen in NP-TTD. Fusing DBR1 to the TTDN1 IDR is sufficient to recruit DBR1 to the IBC and circumvents the functional requirement for TTDN1. Collectively, our findings link RNA lariat processing with splicing outcomes by revealing the molecular function of TTDN1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A Townley
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Luke Buerer
- Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Ning Tsao
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Albino Bacolla
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Fadhel Mansoori
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Timur Rusanov
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Nathanial Clark
- Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Negar Goodarzi
- Mechanisms and Regulation of Splicing Research Group, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - Nicolas Schmidt
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | | | - Hua Sun
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Reilly A Sample
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Joshua R Brickner
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Drew McDonald
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Miaw-Sheue Tsai
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Matthew J Walter
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - David F Wozniak
- Department of Psychiatry, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Alex S Holehouse
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center for Science and Engineering of Living Systems, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Vladimir Pena
- Mechanisms and Regulation of Splicing Research Group, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
| | - John A Tainer
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - William G Fairbrother
- Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA; Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute of Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
| | - Nima Mosammaparast
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Center for Genome Integrity, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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14
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Ng R, Kalinousky A, Harris J. Epigenetics of cognition and behavior: insights from Mendelian disorders of epigenetic machinery. J Neurodev Disord 2023; 15:16. [PMID: 37245029 PMCID: PMC10224589 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-023-09482-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics, one mechanism by which gene expression can change without any changes to the DNA sequence, was described nearly a century ago. However, the importance of epigenetic processes to neurodevelopment and higher order neurological functions like cognition and behavior is only now being realized. A group of disorders known as the Mendelian disorders of the epigenetic machinery are caused by the altered function of epigenetic machinery proteins, which consequently affects downstream expression of many genes. These disorders almost universally have cognitive dysfunction and behavioral issues as core features. Here, we review what is known about the neurodevelopmental phenotypes of some key examples of these disorders divided into categories based on the underlying function of the affected protein. Understanding these Mendelian disorders of the epigenetic machinery can illuminate the role of epigenetic regulation in typical brain function and can lead to future therapies and better management for a host of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowena Ng
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Allison Kalinousky
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jacqueline Harris
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- McKusick-Nathans Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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15
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Hamagami N, Wu DY, Clemens AW, Nettles SA, Li A, Gabel HW. NSD1 deposits histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation to pattern non-CG DNA methylation in neurons. Mol Cell 2023; 83:1412-1428.e7. [PMID: 37098340 PMCID: PMC10230755 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
During postnatal development, the DNA methyltransferase DNMT3A deposits high levels of non-CG cytosine methylation in neurons. This methylation is critical for transcriptional regulation, and loss of this mark is implicated in DNMT3A-associated neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Here, we show in mice that genome topology and gene expression converge to shape histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation (H3K36me2) profiles, which in turn recruit DNMT3A and pattern neuronal non-CG methylation. We show that NSD1, an H3K36 methyltransferase mutated in NDD, is required for the patterning of megabase-scale H3K36me2 and non-CG methylation in neurons. We find that brain-specific deletion of NSD1 causes altered DNA methylation that overlaps with DNMT3A disorder models to drive convergent dysregulation of key neuronal genes that may underlie shared phenotypes in NSD1- and DNMT3A-associated NDDs. Our findings indicate that H3K36me2 deposited by NSD1 is important for neuronal non-CG DNA methylation and suggest that the H3K36me2-DNMT3A-non-CG-methylation pathway is likely disrupted in NSD1-associated NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Hamagami
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Dennis Y Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Adam W Clemens
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Sabin A Nettles
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Aidan Li
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA.
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16
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Chen DY, Sutton LA, Ramakrishnan SM, Duncavage EJ, Heath SE, Compton LA, Miller CA, Ley TJ. Melanoma in a patient with DNMT3A overgrowth syndrome. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2023; 9:a006267. [PMID: 37160317 PMCID: PMC10240841 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a006267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in epigenetic regulators are increasingly recognized as early events in tumorigenesis; thus, patients with acquired or inherited variants in epigenetic regulators may be at increased risk for developing multiple types of cancer. DNMT3A overgrowth syndrome (DOS), caused by germline pathogenic variants in the DNA methyltransferase gene DNMT3A, has been associated with a predisposition toward development of hematopoietic and neuronal malignancies. DNMT3A deficiency has been described to promote keratinocyte proliferation in mice. Although altered DNA methylation patterns are well-recognized in melanoma, the role of DNA methyltransferases in melanoma pathogenesis is not clear. We report the case of an adult DOS patient with a germline DNMT3A loss-of-function mutation, who developed an early-onset melanoma with regional lymph node metastatic disease. Exome sequencing of the primary tumor identified an additional acquired, missense DNMT3A mutation in the dominant tumor clone, suggesting that the loss of DNMT3A function was relevant for the development of this tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Y Chen
- Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA;
| | - Leslie A Sutton
- Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Sai Mukund Ramakrishnan
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Eric J Duncavage
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Sharon E Heath
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Leigh A Compton
- Division of Dermatology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Christopher A Miller
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Timothy J Ley
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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17
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Hamagami N, Wu DY, Clemens AW, Nettles SA, Gabel HW. NSD1 deposits histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation to pattern non-CG DNA methylation in neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.17.528965. [PMID: 36824816 PMCID: PMC9949142 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.17.528965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
During postnatal development the DNA methyltransferase DNMT3A deposits high levels of non-CG cytosine methylation in neurons. This unique methylation is critical for transcriptional regulation in the mature mammalian brain, and loss of this mark is implicated in DNMT3A-associated neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). The mechanisms determining genomic non-CG methylation profiles are not well defined however, and it is unknown if this pathway is disrupted in additional NDDs. Here we show that genome topology and gene expression converge to shape histone H3 lysine 36 dimethylation (H3K36me2) profiles, which in turn recruit DNMT3A and pattern neuronal non-CG methylation. We show that NSD1, the H3K36 methyltransferase mutated in the NDD, Sotos syndrome, is required for megabase-scale patterning of H3K36me2 and non-CG methylation in neurons. We find that brain-specific deletion of NSD1 causes alterations in DNA methylation that overlap with models of DNMT3A disorders and define convergent disruption in the expression of key neuronal genes in these models that may contribute to shared phenotypes in NSD1- and DNMT3A-associated NDD. Our findings indicate that H3K36me2 deposited by NSD1 is an important determinant of neuronal non-CG DNA methylation and implicates disruption of this methylation in Sotos syndrome. Highlights Topology-associated DNA methylation and gene expression independently contribute to neuronal gene body and enhancer non-CG DNA methylation patterns.Topology-associated H3K36me2 patterns and local enrichment of H3K4 methylation impact deposition of non-CG methylation by DNMT3A. Disruption of NSD1 in vivo leads to alterations in H3K36me2, DNA methylation, and gene expression that overlap with models of DNMT3A disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Hamagami
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis MO 63110-1093, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Dennis Y Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis MO 63110-1093, USA
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Adam W Clemens
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Sabin A Nettles
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis MO 63110-1093, USA
- Lead contact
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18
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Fu MP, Merrill SM, Sharma M, Gibson WT, Turvey SE, Kobor MS. Rare diseases of epigenetic origin: Challenges and opportunities. Front Genet 2023; 14:1113086. [PMID: 36814905 PMCID: PMC9939656 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1113086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Rare diseases (RDs), more than 80% of which have a genetic origin, collectively affect approximately 350 million people worldwide. Progress in next-generation sequencing technology has both greatly accelerated the pace of discovery of novel RDs and provided more accurate means for their diagnosis. RDs that are driven by altered epigenetic regulation with an underlying genetic basis are referred to as rare diseases of epigenetic origin (RDEOs). These diseases pose unique challenges in research, as they often show complex genetic and clinical heterogeneity arising from unknown gene-disease mechanisms. Furthermore, multiple other factors, including cell type and developmental time point, can confound attempts to deconvolute the pathophysiology of these disorders. These challenges are further exacerbated by factors that contribute to epigenetic variability and the difficulty of collecting sufficient participant numbers in human studies. However, new molecular and bioinformatics techniques will provide insight into how these disorders manifest over time. This review highlights recent studies addressing these challenges with innovative solutions. Further research will elucidate the mechanisms of action underlying unique RDEOs and facilitate the discovery of treatments and diagnostic biomarkers for screening, thereby improving health trajectories and clinical outcomes of affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie P. Fu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sarah M. Merrill
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mehul Sharma
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William T. Gibson
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stuart E. Turvey
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, BC Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Michael S. Kobor
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada,*Correspondence: Michael S. Kobor,
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19
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Kunert S, Linhard V, Weirich S, Choudalakis M, Osswald F, Krämer L, Köhler AR, Bröhm A, Wollenhaupt J, Schwalbe H, Jeltsch A. The MECP2-TRD domain interacts with the DNMT3A-ADD domain at the H3-tail binding site. Protein Sci 2023; 32:e4542. [PMID: 36519786 PMCID: PMC9798253 DOI: 10.1002/pro.4542] [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: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The DNMT3A DNA methyltransferase and MECP2 methylation reader are highly expressed in neurons. Both proteins interact via their DNMT3A-ADD and MECP2-TRD domains, and the MECP2 interaction regulates the activity and subnuclear localization of DNMT3A. Here, we mapped the interface of both domains using peptide SPOT array binding, protein pull-down, equilibrium peptide binding assays, and structural analyses. The region D529-D531 on the surface of the ADD domain was identified as interaction point with the TRD domain. This includes important residues of the histone H3 N-terminal tail binding site to the ADD domain, explaining why TRD and H3 binding to the ADD domain is competitive. On the TRD domain, residues 214-228 containing K219 and K223 were found to be essential for the ADD interaction. This part represents a folded patch within the otherwise largely disordered TRD domain. A crystal structure analysis of ADD revealed that the identified H3/TDR lysine binding pocket is occupied by an arginine residue from a crystallographic neighbor in the ADD apoprotein structure. Finally, we show that mutations in the interface of ADD and TRD domains disrupt the cellular interaction of both proteins in NIH3T3 cells. In summary, our data show that the H3 peptide binding cleft of the ADD domain also mediates the interaction with the MECP2-TRD domain suggesting that this binding site may have a broader role also in the interaction of DNMT3A with other proteins leading to complex regulation options by competitive and PTM specific binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Kunert
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Verena Linhard
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical BiologyGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | - Sara Weirich
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Michel Choudalakis
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Florian Osswald
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Lisa Krämer
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Anja R. Köhler
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Alexander Bröhm
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
| | - Jan Wollenhaupt
- Macromolecular Crystallography GroupHelmholtz‐Zentrum BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Harald Schwalbe
- Center for Biomolecular Magnetic Resonance (BMRZ), Institute for Organic Chemistry and Chemical BiologyGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | - Albert Jeltsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Technical BiochemistryUniversity of StuttgartStuttgartGermany
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20
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DNA methyltransferase DNMT3A forms interaction networks with the CpG site and flanking sequence elements for efficient methylation. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102462. [PMID: 36067881 PMCID: PMC9530848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102462] [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: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Specific DNA methylation at CpG and non-CpG sites is essential for chromatin regulation. The DNA methyltransferase DNMT3A interacts with target sites surrounded by variable DNA sequences with its TRD and RD loops, but the functional necessity of these interactions is unclear. We investigated CpG and non-CpG methylation in a randomized sequence context using WT DNMT3A and several DNMT3A variants containing mutations at DNA-interacting residues. Our data revealed that the flanking sequence of target sites between the −2 and up to the +8 position modulates methylation rates >100-fold. Non-CpG methylation flanking preferences were even stronger and favor C(+1). R836 and N838 in concert mediate recognition of the CpG guanine. R836 changes its conformation in a flanking sequence-dependent manner and either contacts the CpG guanine or the +1/+2 flank, thereby coupling the interaction with both sequence elements. R836 suppresses activity at CNT sites but supports methylation of CAC substrates, the preferred target for non-CpG methylation of DNMT3A in cells. N838 helps to balance this effect and prevent the preference for C(+1) from becoming too strong. Surprisingly, we found L883 reduces DNMT3A activity despite being highly conserved in evolution. However, mutations at L883 disrupt the DNMT3A-specific DNA interactions of the RD loop, leading to altered flanking sequence preferences. Similar effects occur after the R882H mutation in cancer cells. Our data reveal that DNMT3A forms flexible and interdependent interaction networks with the CpG guanine and flanking residues that ensure recognition of the CpG and efficient methylation of the cytosine in contexts of variable flanking sequences.
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21
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Tovy A, Reyes JM, Zhang L, Huang YH, Rosas C, Daquinag AC, Guzman A, Ramabadran R, Chen CW, Gu T, Gupta S, Ortinau L, Park D, Cox AR, Rau RE, Hartig SM, Kolonin MG, Goodell MA. Constitutive loss of DNMT3A causes morbid obesity through misregulation of adipogenesis. eLife 2022; 11:e72359. [PMID: 35635747 PMCID: PMC9150890 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA Methyltransferase 3 A (DNMT3A) is an important facilitator of differentiation of both embryonic and hematopoietic stem cells. Heterozygous germline mutations in DNMT3A lead to Tatton-Brown-Rahman Syndrome (TBRS), characterized by obesity and excessive height. While DNMT3A is known to impact feeding behavior via the hypothalamus, here we investigated a role in adipocyte progenitors utilizing heterozygous knockout mice that recapitulate cardinal TBRS phenotypes. These mice become morbidly obese due to adipocyte enlargement and tissue expansion. Adipose tissue in these mice exhibited defects in preadipocyte maturation and precocious activation of inflammatory gene networks, including interleukin-6 signaling. Adipocyte progenitor cell lines lacking DNMT3A exhibited aberrant differentiation. Furthermore, mice in which Dnmt3a was specifically ablated in adipocyte progenitors showed enlarged fat depots and increased progenitor numbers, partly recapitulating the TBRS obesity phenotypes. Loss of DNMT3A led to constitutive DNA hypomethylation, such that the DNA methylation landscape of young adipocyte progenitors resemble that of older wild-type mice. Together, our results demonstrate that DNMT3A coordinates both the central and local control of energy storage required to maintain normal weight and prevent inflammatory obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayala Tovy
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Jaime M Reyes
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Linda Zhang
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Yung-Hsin Huang
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Carina Rosas
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Alexes C Daquinag
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science CenterHoustonUnited States
| | - Anna Guzman
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Raghav Ramabadran
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Chun-Wei Chen
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Tianpeng Gu
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Sinjini Gupta
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Laura Ortinau
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Disease, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHoustonUnited States
| | - Dongsu Park
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Disease, Institute of Molecular Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at HoustonHoustonUnited States
| | - Aaron R Cox
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Rachel E Rau
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's HospitalHoustonUnited States
| | - Sean M Hartig
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Mikhail G Kolonin
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology and Molecular Medicine, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
| | - Margaret A Goodell
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Center, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of MedicineHoustonUnited States
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22
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Komada M, Nishimura Y. Epigenetics and Neuroinflammation Associated With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Microglial Perspective. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:852752. [PMID: 35646933 PMCID: PMC9133693 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.852752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a cause of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, and cerebral palsy. Converging lines of evidence from basic and clinical sciences suggest that dysregulation of the epigenetic landscape, including DNA methylation and miRNA expression, is associated with neuroinflammation. Genetic and environmental factors can affect the interaction between epigenetics and neuroinflammation, which may cause neurodevelopmental disorders. In this minireview, we focus on neuroinflammation that might be mediated by epigenetic dysregulation in microglia, and compare studies using mammals and zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munekazu Komada
- Mammalian Embryology, Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Kindai University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuhei Nishimura
- Department of Integrative Pharmacology, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan
- *Correspondence: Yuhei Nishimura,
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23
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The disordered N-terminal domain of DNMT3A recognizes H2AK119ub and is required for postnatal development. Nat Genet 2022; 54:625-636. [PMID: 35534561 PMCID: PMC9295050 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-022-01063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
DNA methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3A) plays a crucial role during mammalian development. Two isoforms of DNMT3A are differentially expressed from stem cells to somatic tissues, but their individual functions remain largely uncharacterized. Here we report that the long isoform DNMT3A1, but not the short DNMT3A2, is essential for mouse postnatal development. DNMT3A1 binds to and regulates bivalent neurodevelopmental genes in the brain. Strikingly, Dnmt3a1 knockout perinatal lethality could be partially rescued by DNMT3A1 restoration in the nervous system. We further show that the intrinsically disordered N terminus of DNMT3A1 is required for normal development and DNA methylation at DNMT3A1-enriched regions. Mechanistically, a ubiquitin-interacting motif embedded in a putative α-helix within the N terminus binds to mono-ubiquitinated histone H2AK119, probably mediating recruitment of DNMT3A1 to Polycomb-regulated regions. These data demonstrate an isoform-specific role for DNMT3A1 in mouse postnatal development and reveal the N terminus as a necessary regulatory domain for DNMT3A1 chromatin occupancy and functions in the nervous system.
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24
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Chen Z, Ding Y, Zeng Y, Zhang XP, Chen JY. Dexmedetomidine reduces propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury by modulating the miR-377-5p/Arc pathway. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2022; 23:18. [PMID: 35337381 PMCID: PMC8957152 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-022-00555-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Propofol and dexmedetomidine (DEX) are widely used in general anesthesia, and exert toxic and protective effects on hippocampal neurons, respectively. The study sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms of DEX-mediated neuroprotection against propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury in mouse brains. METHODS Hippocampal neurons of mice and HT22 cells were treated with propofol, DEX, and propofol+DEX. In addition, transfection of miR-377-5p mimics or inhibitors was performed in HT22 cells. Neuronal apoptosis was evaluated by a means of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) or Hochest 33,258 staining; Arc positive expression in hippocampus tissues was detected using a microscope in immunohistochemistry assays; miRNA-377-5p expression was quantified by RT-qPCR; the protein levels of Arc, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B were determined using western blot; Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay was used to detect the viability and apoptotic rate of the neurons; methylation analysis in the miR-377-5p promoter was performed through methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) assay; dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to confirm whether Arc was under targeted regulation of miR-377-5p. RESULTS In the current study, both in vitro and in vivo, propofol treatment induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis and suppressed cell viability. DNMT3A and DNMT3B expression levels were decreased following propofol treatment, resulting in lowered methylation in the miR-377-5p promoter region and then enhanced expression of miR-377-5p, leading to a decrease in the expression of downstream Arc. Conversely, the expression levels of DNMT3A and DNMT3B were increased following DEX treatment, thus methylation in miR-377-5p promoter region was improved, and miR-377-5p expression was decreased, leading to an increase in the expression of downstream Arc. Eventually, DEX pretreatment protected hippocampal neurons against propofol-induced neurotoxicity by recovering the expression levels of DNMT3A, miR-377-5p, and Arc to the normal levels. Additionally, DNMT3A knockdown improved miR-377-5p expression but reduced Arc expression, and DNMT3A overexpression exerted the opposite effects. Dual luciferase reporter assay revealed a binding target between miR-377-5p and Arc 3'UTR. The neuroprotective effect of DEX against propofol-induced neuronal apoptosis was diminished after Arc knockdown. Silencing Arc independently triggered the apoptosis of HT22 cells, which was alleviated through transfection of miR-377-5p inhibitors. CONCLUSIONS DEX reduced propofol-induced hippocampal neuron injury via the miR-377-5p/Arc signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yong Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Shajin Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xue-Ping Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen Anesthesiology Engineering Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, NO. 1017 Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Jian-Yan Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, NO.19 Nonglin Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shenzhen Shajin Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University, Shenzhen, China.
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25
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Gauvrit T, Benderradji H, Buée L, Blum D, Vieau D. Early-Life Environment Influence on Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:834661. [PMID: 35252195 PMCID: PMC8891536 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.834661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
With the expand of the population’s average age, the incidence of neurodegenerative disorders has dramatically increased over the last decades. Alzheimer disease (AD) which is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disease is mostly sporadic and primarily characterized by cognitive deficits and neuropathological lesions such as amyloid -β (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyper- and/or abnormally phosphorylated Tau protein. AD is considered a complex disease that arises from the interaction between environmental and genetic factors, modulated by epigenetic mechanisms. Besides the well-described cognitive decline, AD patients also exhibit metabolic impairments. Metabolic and cognitive perturbations are indeed frequently observed in the Developmental Origin of Health and Diseases (DOHaD) field of research which proposes that environmental perturbations during the perinatal period determine the susceptibility to pathological conditions later in life. In this review, we explored the potential influence of early environmental exposure to risk factors (maternal stress, malnutrition, xenobiotics, chemical factors … ) and the involvement of epigenetic mechanisms on the programming of late-onset AD. Animal models indicate that offspring exposed to early-life stress during gestation and/or lactation increase both AD lesions, lead to defects in synaptic plasticity and finally to cognitive impairments. This long-lasting epigenetic programming could be modulated by factors such as nutriceuticals, epigenetic modifiers or psychosocial behaviour, offering thus future therapeutic opportunity to protect from AD development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Gauvrit
- Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 LilNCog—Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- Alzheimer and Tauopathies, LabEx DISTALZ, Lille, France
| | - Hamza Benderradji
- Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 LilNCog—Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- Alzheimer and Tauopathies, LabEx DISTALZ, Lille, France
| | - Luc Buée
- Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 LilNCog—Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- Alzheimer and Tauopathies, LabEx DISTALZ, Lille, France
| | - David Blum
- Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 LilNCog—Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- Alzheimer and Tauopathies, LabEx DISTALZ, Lille, France
| | - Didier Vieau
- Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172 LilNCog—Lille Neuroscience and Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- Alzheimer and Tauopathies, LabEx DISTALZ, Lille, France
- *Correspondence: Didier Vieau,
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26
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Gao W, Liu JL, Lu X, Yang Q. Epigenetic regulation of energy metabolism in obesity. J Mol Cell Biol 2021; 13:480-499. [PMID: 34289049 PMCID: PMC8530523 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally. Although modern adoption of a sedentary lifestyle coupled with energy-dense nutrition is considered to be the main cause of obesity epidemic, genetic preposition contributes significantly to the imbalanced energy metabolism in obesity. However, the variants of genetic loci identified from large-scale genetic studies do not appear to fully explain the rapid increase in obesity epidemic in the last four to five decades. Recent advancements of next-generation sequencing technologies and studies of tissue-specific effects of epigenetic factors in metabolic organs have significantly advanced our understanding of epigenetic regulation of energy metabolism in obesity. The epigenome, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA-mediated processes, is characterized as mitotically or meiotically heritable changes in gene function without alteration of DNA sequence. Importantly, epigenetic modifications are reversible. Therefore, comprehensively understanding the landscape of epigenetic regulation of energy metabolism could unravel novel molecular targets for obesity treatment. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the roles of DNA methylation, histone modifications such as methylation and acetylation, and RNA-mediated processes in regulating energy metabolism. We also discuss the effects of lifestyle modifications and therapeutic agents on epigenetic regulation of energy metabolism in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Gao
- Department of Geriatrics, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Laboratory for Aging & Disease, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Jia-Li Liu
- Department of Geriatrics, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Laboratory for Aging & Disease, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiang Lu
- Department of Geriatrics, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Key Laboratory for Aging & Disease, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Medicine, Physiology and Biophysics, UC Irvine Diabetes Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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27
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Lozoya OA, Xu F, Grenet D, Wang T, Stevanovic KD, Cushman JD, Hagler TB, Gruzdev A, Jensen P, Hernandez B, Riadi G, Moy SS, Santos JH, Woychik RP. A brain-specific pgc1α fusion transcript affects gene expression and behavioural outcomes in mice. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:4/12/e202101122. [PMID: 34649938 PMCID: PMC8548212 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202101122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This study shows that loss of a brain-specific fusion isoform of PGC1a leads to up-regulation of genes and motor impairments in mice, suggesting functional differences between PGC1 isoforms in the brain. PGC1α is a transcriptional coactivator in peripheral tissues, but its function in the brain remains poorly understood. Various brain-specific Pgc1α isoforms have been reported in mice and humans, including two fusion transcripts (FTs) with non-coding repetitive sequences, but their function is unknown. The FTs initiate at a simple sequence repeat locus ∼570 Kb upstream from the reference promoter; one also includes a portion of a short interspersed nuclear element (SINE). Using publicly available genomics data, here we show that the SINE FT is the predominant form of Pgc1α in neurons. Furthermore, mutation of the SINE in mice leads to altered behavioural phenotypes and significant up-regulation of genes in the female, but not male, cerebellum. Surprisingly, these genes are largely involved in neurotransmission, having poor association with the classical mitochondrial or antioxidant programs. These data expand our knowledge on the role of Pgc1α in neuronal physiology and suggest that different isoforms may have distinct functions. They also highlight the need for further studies before modulating levels of Pgc1α in the brain for therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oswaldo A Lozoya
- Genomic Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Fuhua Xu
- Genomic Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Dagoberto Grenet
- Genomic Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Tianyuan Wang
- Integrative Bioinformatics Branch, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Korey D Stevanovic
- Neurobehavioral Core Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jesse D Cushman
- Neurobehavioral Core Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Thomas B Hagler
- Knockout Mouse Core Facility, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Artiom Gruzdev
- Knockout Mouse Core Facility, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Patricia Jensen
- Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bairon Hernandez
- Centro de Bioinformática y Simulación Molecular, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Riadi
- Centro de Bioinformática y Simulación Molecular, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile
| | - Sheryl S Moy
- Department of Psychiatry, Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Janine H Santos
- Genomic Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard P Woychik
- Genomic Integrity and Structural Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA
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Thomas KT, Zakharenko SS. MicroRNAs in the Onset of Schizophrenia. Cells 2021; 10:2679. [PMID: 34685659 PMCID: PMC8534348 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence implicates microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathology of schizophrenia. These small noncoding RNAs bind to mRNAs containing complementary sequences and promote their degradation and/or inhibit protein synthesis. A single miRNA may have hundreds of targets, and miRNA targets are overrepresented among schizophrenia-risk genes. Although schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder, symptoms usually do not appear until adolescence, and most patients do not receive a schizophrenia diagnosis until late adolescence or early adulthood. However, few studies have examined miRNAs during this critical period. First, we examine evidence that the miRNA pathway is dynamic throughout adolescence and adulthood and that miRNAs regulate processes critical to late neurodevelopment that are aberrant in patients with schizophrenia. Next, we examine evidence implicating miRNAs in the conversion to psychosis, including a schizophrenia-associated single nucleotide polymorphism in MIR137HG that is among the strongest known predictors of age of onset in patients with schizophrenia. Finally, we examine how hemizygosity for DGCR8, which encodes an obligate component of the complex that synthesizes miRNA precursors, may contribute to the onset of psychosis in patients with 22q11.2 microdeletions and how animal models of this disorder can help us understand the many roles of miRNAs in the onset of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen T. Thomas
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Stanislav S. Zakharenko
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
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29
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Curtis D. Analysis of 200,000 Exome-Sequenced UK Biobank Subjects Implicates Genes Involved in Increased and Decreased Risk of Hypertension. Pulse (Basel) 2021; 9:17-29. [PMID: 34722352 PMCID: PMC8527905 DOI: 10.1159/000517419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous analyses have identified common variants along with some specific genes and rare variants which are associated with risk of hypertension, but much remains to be discovered. METHODS AND RESULTS Exome-sequenced UK Biobank participants were phenotyped based on having a diagnosis of hypertension or taking anti-hypertensive medication to produce a sample of 66,123 cases and 134,504 controls. Variants with minor allele frequency (MAF) <0.01 were subjected to a gene-wise weighted burden analysis, with higher weights assigned to variants which are rarer and/or predicted to have more severe effects. Of 20,384 genes analysed, 2 genes were exome-wide significant, DNMT3A and FES. Also strongly implicated were GUCY1A1 and GUCY1B1, which code for the subunits of soluble guanylate cyclase. There was further support for the previously reported effects of variants in NPR1 and protective effects of variants in DBH. An inframe deletion in CACNA1D with MAF = 0.005, rs72556363, is associated with modestly increased risk of hypertension. Other biologically plausible genes highlighted consist of CSK, AGTR1, ZYX, and PREP. All variants implicated were rare, and cumulatively they are not predicted to make a large contribution to the population risk of hypertension. CONCLUSIONS This approach confirms and clarifies previously reported findings and also offers novel insights into biological processes influencing hypertension risk, potentially facilitating the development of improved therapeutic interventions. This research has been conducted using the UK Biobank Resource.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Curtis
- UCL Genetics Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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30
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Ibrahim A, Papin C, Mohideen-Abdul K, Le Gras S, Stoll I, Bronner C, Dimitrov S, Klaholz BP, Hamiche A. MeCP2 is a microsatellite binding protein that protects CA repeats from nucleosome invasion. Science 2021; 372:372/6549/eabd5581. [PMID: 34324427 DOI: 10.1126/science.abd5581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Rett syndrome protein MeCP2 was described as a methyl-CpG-binding protein, but its exact function remains unknown. Here we show that mouse MeCP2 is a microsatellite binding protein that specifically recognizes hydroxymethylated CA repeats. Depletion of MeCP2 alters chromatin organization of CA repeats and lamina-associated domains and results in nucleosome accumulation on CA repeats and genome-wide transcriptional dysregulation. The structure of MeCP2 in complex with a hydroxymethylated CA repeat reveals a characteristic DNA shape, with considerably modified geometry at the 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, which is recognized specifically by Arg133, a key residue whose mutation causes Rett syndrome. Our work identifies MeCP2 as a microsatellite DNA binding protein that targets the 5hmC-modified CA-rich strand and maintains genome regions nucleosome-free, suggesting a role for MeCP2 dysfunction in Rett syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulkhaleg Ibrahim
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Biotechnology Research Center (BTRC), 30303 Tripoli, Libya
| | - Christophe Papin
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Kareem Mohideen-Abdul
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Department of Integrated Structural Biology, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Stéphanie Le Gras
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Isabelle Stoll
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Christian Bronner
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France.,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Stefan Dimitrov
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS UMR 5309, INSERM U1209, Institute for Advanced Biosciences (IAB), Site Santé - Allée des Alpes, 38700 La Tronche, France. .,Roumen Tsanev Institute of Molecular Biology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, Bulgaria
| | - Bruno P Klaholz
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France. .,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Department of Integrated Structural Biology, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France
| | - Ali Hamiche
- Institute of Genetics and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IGBMC), 67400 Illkirch, France. .,Department of Functional Genomics and Cancer, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7104, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U964, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Centre for Integrative Biology (CBI), Department of Integrated Structural Biology, IGBMC, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France.,Center of Excellence in Bionanoscience Research, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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31
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Smith AM, LaValle TA, Shinawi M, Ramakrishnan SM, Abel HJ, Hill CA, Kirkland NM, Rettig MP, Helton NM, Heath SE, Ferraro F, Chen DY, Adak S, Semenkovich CF, Christian DL, Martin JR, Gabel HW, Miller CA, Ley TJ. Functional and epigenetic phenotypes of humans and mice with DNMT3A Overgrowth Syndrome. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4549. [PMID: 34315901 PMCID: PMC8316576 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24800-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Germline pathogenic variants in DNMT3A were recently described in patients with overgrowth, obesity, behavioral, and learning difficulties (DNMT3A Overgrowth Syndrome/DOS). Somatic mutations in the DNMT3A gene are also the most common cause of clonal hematopoiesis, and can initiate acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Using whole genome bisulfite sequencing, we studied DNA methylation in peripheral blood cells of 11 DOS patients and found a focal, canonical hypomethylation phenotype, which is most severe with the dominant negative DNMT3AR882H mutation. A germline mouse model expressing the homologous Dnmt3aR878H mutation phenocopies most aspects of the human DOS syndrome, including the methylation phenotype and an increased incidence of spontaneous hematopoietic malignancies, suggesting that all aspects of this syndrome are caused by this mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Smith
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Taylor A LaValle
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marwan Shinawi
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sai M Ramakrishnan
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Haley J Abel
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Cheryl A Hill
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Science, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Nicole M Kirkland
- Department of Pathology and Anatomical Science, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Michael P Rettig
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nichole M Helton
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sharon E Heath
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Francesca Ferraro
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David Y Chen
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sangeeta Adak
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Clay F Semenkovich
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipid Research, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Diana L Christian
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jenna R Martin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Harrison W Gabel
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Christopher A Miller
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Timothy J Ley
- Division of Oncology, Section of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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32
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Lim JY, Duttke SH, Baker TS, Lee J, Gambino KJ, Venturini NJ, Ho JSY, Zheng S, Fstkchyan YS, Pillai V, Fajgenbaum DC, Marazzi I, Benner C, Byun M. DNMT3A haploinsufficiency causes dichotomous DNA methylation defects at enhancers in mature human immune cells. J Exp Med 2021; 218:212086. [PMID: 33970190 PMCID: PMC8111463 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20202733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
DNMT3A encodes an enzyme that carries out de novo DNA methylation, which is essential for the acquisition of cellular identity and specialized functions during cellular differentiation. DNMT3A is the most frequently mutated gene in age-related clonal hematopoiesis. As such, mature immune cells harboring DNMT3A mutations can be readily detected in elderly persons. Most DNMT3A mutations associated with clonal hematopoiesis are heterozygous and predicted to cause loss of function, indicating that haploinsufficiency is the predominant pathogenic mechanism. Yet, the impact of DNMT3A haploinsufficiency on the function of mature immune cells is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that DNMT3A haploinsufficiency impairs the gain of DNA methylation at decommissioned enhancers, while simultaneously and unexpectedly impairing DNA demethylation of newly activated enhancers in mature human myeloid cells. The DNA methylation defects alter the activity of affected enhancers, leading to abnormal gene expression and impaired immune response. These findings provide insights into the mechanism of immune dysfunction associated with clonal hematopoiesis and acquired DNMT3A mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Yeon Lim
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Sascha H Duttke
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Turner S Baker
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Jihye Lee
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Kristyne J Gambino
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nicholas J Venturini
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Jessica Sook Yuin Ho
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Simin Zheng
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Yesai S Fstkchyan
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Vinodh Pillai
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Ivan Marazzi
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Christopher Benner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Minji Byun
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.,Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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