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Martins-Costa C, Wiegers A, Pham VA, Sidhaye J, Doleschall B, Novatchkova M, Lendl T, Piber M, Peer A, Möseneder P, Stuempflen M, Chow SYA, Seidl R, Prayer D, Höftberger R, Kasprian G, Ikeuchi Y, Corsini NS, Knoblich JA. ARID1B controls transcriptional programs of axon projection in an organoid model of the human corpus callosum. Cell Stem Cell 2024; 31:866-885.e14. [PMID: 38718796 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.04.014] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Mutations in ARID1B, a member of the mSWI/SNF complex, cause severe neurodevelopmental phenotypes with elusive mechanisms in humans. The most common structural abnormality in the brain of ARID1B patients is agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC), characterized by the absence of an interhemispheric white matter tract that connects distant cortical regions. Here, we find that neurons expressing SATB2, a determinant of callosal projection neuron (CPN) identity, show impaired maturation in ARID1B+/- neural organoids. Molecularly, a reduction in chromatin accessibility of genomic regions targeted by TCF-like, NFI-like, and ARID-like transcription factors drives the differential expression of genes required for corpus callosum (CC) development. Through an in vitro model of the CC tract, we demonstrate that this transcriptional dysregulation impairs the formation of long-range axonal projections, causing structural underconnectivity. Our study uncovers new functions of the mSWI/SNF during human corticogenesis, identifying cell-autonomous axonogenesis defects in SATB2+ neurons as a cause of ACC in ARID1B patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Martins-Costa
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria; Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Wiegers
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Vincent A Pham
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jaydeep Sidhaye
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Balint Doleschall
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria; Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Novatchkova
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Lendl
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marielle Piber
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Angela Peer
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Paul Möseneder
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marlene Stuempflen
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Siu Yu A Chow
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 153-8505 Tokyo, Japan; Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, 113-0032 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rainer Seidl
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prayer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Romana Höftberger
- Division of Neuropathology and Neurochemistry, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Kasprian
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Yoshiho Ikeuchi
- Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo, 153-8505 Tokyo, Japan; Institute for AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, 113-0032 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nina S Corsini
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jürgen A Knoblich
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IMBA), Vienna BioCenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria; Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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2
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Starr AL, Nishimura T, Igarashi KJ, Funamoto C, Nakauchi H, Fraser HB. Disentangling cell-intrinsic and extrinsic factors underlying gene expression evolution. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.06.592777. [PMID: 38798687 PMCID: PMC11118348 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.06.592777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Chimeras have played a foundational role in biology, for example by enabling the classification of developmental processes into those driven intrinsically by individual cells versus those driven extrinsically by their extracellular environment. Here, we extend this framework to decompose evolutionary divergence in gene expression and other quantitative traits into cell-intrinsic, extrinsic, and intrinsic-extrinsic interaction components. Applying this framework to reciprocal rat-mouse chimeras, we found that the majority of gene expression divergence is attributable to cell-intrinsic factors, though extrinsic factors also play an integral role. For example, a rat-like extracellular environment extrinsically up-regulates the expression of a key transcriptional regulator of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response in some but not all cell types, which in turn strongly predicts extrinsic up-regulation of its target genes and of the ER stress response pathway as a whole. This effect is also seen at the protein level, suggesting propagation through multiple regulatory levels. We also demonstrate that our framework is applicable to a cellular trait, neuronal differentiation, and estimated the intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to its divergence. Finally, we show that imprinted genes are dramatically mis-expressed in species-mismatched environments, suggesting that mismatch between rapidly evolving intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms controlling gene imprinting may contribute to barriers to interspecies chimerism. Overall, our conceptual framework opens new avenues to investigate the mechanistic basis of evolutionary divergence in gene expression and other quantitative traits in any multicellular organism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Toshiya Nishimura
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- WPI Premium Research Institute for Human Metaverse Medicine (WPI-PRIMe), Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan (current address for T.N.)
- Division of Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kyomi J. Igarashi
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Chihiro Funamoto
- Division of Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine, Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Nakauchi
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Distinguished Professor Unit, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Hunter B. Fraser
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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3
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Stepien BK, Wielockx B. From Vessels to Neurons-The Role of Hypoxia Pathway Proteins in Embryonic Neurogenesis. Cells 2024; 13:621. [PMID: 38607059 PMCID: PMC11012138 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070621] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Embryonic neurogenesis can be defined as a period of prenatal development during which divisions of neural stem and progenitor cells give rise to neurons. In the central nervous system of most mammals, including humans, the majority of neocortical neurogenesis occurs before birth. It is a highly spatiotemporally organized process whose perturbations lead to cortical malformations and dysfunctions underlying neurological and psychiatric pathologies, and in which oxygen availability plays a critical role. In case of deprived oxygen conditions, known as hypoxia, the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signaling pathway is activated, resulting in the selective expression of a group of genes that regulate homeostatic adaptations, including cell differentiation and survival, metabolism and angiogenesis. While a physiological degree of hypoxia is essential for proper brain development, imbalanced oxygen levels can adversely affect this process, as observed in common obstetrical pathologies such as prematurity. This review comprehensively explores and discusses the current body of knowledge regarding the role of hypoxia and the HIF pathway in embryonic neurogenesis of the mammalian cortex. Additionally, it highlights existing gaps in our understanding, presents unanswered questions, and provides avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K. Stepien
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Ben Wielockx
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Experimental Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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4
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Xu L, Yuan Z, Zhou J, Zhao Y, Liu W, Lu S, He Z, Qiang B, Shu P, Chen Y, Peng X. Temporal transcriptomic dynamics in developing macaque neocortex. eLife 2024; 12:RP90325. [PMID: 38415809 PMCID: PMC10911584 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90325] [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] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite intense research on mice, the transcriptional regulation of neocortical neurogenesis remains limited in humans and non-human primates. Cortical development in rhesus macaque is known to recapitulate multiple facets of cortical development in humans, including the complex composition of neural stem cells and the thicker supragranular layer. To characterize temporal shifts in transcriptomic programming responsible for differentiation from stem cells to neurons, we sampled parietal lobes of rhesus macaque at E40, E50, E70, E80, and E90, spanning the full period of prenatal neurogenesis. Single-cell RNA sequencing produced a transcriptomic atlas of developing parietal lobe in rhesus macaque neocortex. Identification of distinct cell types and neural stem cells emerging in different developmental stages revealed a terminally bifurcating trajectory from stem cells to neurons. Notably, deep-layer neurons appear in the early stages of neurogenesis, while upper-layer neurons appear later. While these different lineages show overlap in their differentiation program, cell fates are determined post-mitotically. Trajectories analysis from ventricular radial glia (vRGs) to outer radial glia (oRGs) revealed dynamic gene expression profiles and identified differential activation of BMP, FGF, and WNT signaling pathways between vRGs and oRGs. These results provide a comprehensive overview of the temporal patterns of gene expression leading to different fates of radial glial progenitors during neocortex layer formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longjiang Xu
- Institute of Medical Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeKunmingChina
| | - Zan Yuan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Agricultural Bioinformatics Key Laboratory of Hubei Province, Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center of Agricultural Big Data, College of Informatics, Huazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jiafeng Zhou
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Institute of Medical Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeKunmingChina
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Shuaiyao Lu
- Institute of Medical Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeKunmingChina
| | - Zhanlong He
- Institute of Medical Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeKunmingChina
| | - Boqin Qiang
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Pengcheng Shu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Chinese Institute for Brain ResearchBeijingChina
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
| | - Xiaozhong Peng
- Institute of Medical Biology Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical CollegeKunmingChina
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Medical Primate Research Center, Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijingChina
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5
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Ball G, Oldham S, Kyriakopoulou V, Williams LZJ, Karolis V, Price A, Hutter J, Seal ML, Alexander-Bloch A, Hajnal JV, Edwards AD, Robinson EC, Seidlitz J. Molecular signatures of cortical expansion in the human fetal brain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.580198. [PMID: 38405710 PMCID: PMC10888819 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.580198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The third trimester of human gestation is characterised by rapid increases in brain volume and cortical surface area. A growing catalogue of cells in the prenatal brain has revealed remarkable molecular diversity across cortical areas.1,2 Despite this, little is known about how this translates into the patterns of differential cortical expansion observed in humans during the latter stages of gestation. Here we present a new resource, μBrain, to facilitate knowledge translation between molecular and anatomical descriptions of the prenatal developing brain. Built using generative artificial intelligence, μBrain is a three-dimensional cellular-resolution digital atlas combining publicly-available serial sections of the postmortem human brain at 21 weeks gestation3 with bulk tissue microarray data, sampled across 29 cortical regions and 5 transient tissue zones.4 Using μBrain, we evaluate the molecular signatures of preferentially-expanded cortical regions during human gestation, quantified in utero using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We find that differences in the rates of expansion across cortical areas during gestation respect anatomical and evolutionary boundaries between cortical types5 and are founded upon extended periods of upper-layer cortical neuron migration that continue beyond mid-gestation. We identify a set of genes that are upregulated from mid-gestation and highly expressed in rapidly expanding neocortex, which are implicated in genetic disorders with cognitive sequelae. Our findings demonstrate a spatial coupling between areal differences in the timing of neurogenesis and rates of expansion across the neocortical sheet during the prenatal epoch. The μBrain atlas is available from: https://garedaba.github.io/micro-brain/ and provides a new tool to comprehensively map early brain development across domains, model systems and resolution scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Ball
- Developmental Imaging, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - S Oldham
- Developmental Imaging, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - V Kyriakopoulou
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - L Z J Williams
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - V Karolis
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - A Price
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J Hutter
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M L Seal
- Developmental Imaging, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - A Alexander-Bloch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Lifespan Brain Institute, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - J V Hajnal
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A D Edwards
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - E C Robinson
- Centre for the Developing Brain, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Science, King's College London, London, UK
| | - J Seidlitz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
- Lifespan Brain Institute, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Barresi M, Hickmott RA, Bosakhar A, Quezada S, Quigley A, Kawasaki H, Walker D, Tolcos M. Toward a better understanding of how a gyrified brain develops. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhae055. [PMID: 38425213 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhae055] [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: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The size and shape of the cerebral cortex have changed dramatically across evolution. For some species, the cortex remains smooth (lissencephalic) throughout their lifetime, while for other species, including humans and other primates, the cortex increases substantially in size and becomes folded (gyrencephalic). A folded cortex boasts substantially increased surface area, cortical thickness, and neuronal density, and it is therefore associated with higher-order cognitive abilities. The mechanisms that drive gyrification in some species, while others remain lissencephalic despite many shared neurodevelopmental features, have been a topic of investigation for many decades, giving rise to multiple perspectives of how the gyrified cerebral cortex acquires its unique shape. Recently, a structurally unique germinal layer, known as the outer subventricular zone, and the specialized cell type that populates it, called basal radial glial cells, were identified, and these have been shown to be indispensable for cortical expansion and folding. Transcriptional analyses and gene manipulation models have provided an invaluable insight into many of the key cellular and genetic drivers of gyrification. However, the degree to which certain biomechanical, genetic, and cellular processes drive gyrification remains under investigation. This review considers the key aspects of cerebral expansion and folding that have been identified to date and how theories of gyrification have evolved to incorporate this new knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikaela Barresi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
- ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Regent Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Ryan Alexander Hickmott
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
- ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Regent Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Abdulhameed Bosakhar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Sebastian Quezada
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Anita Quigley
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
- ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Regent Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, La Trobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital, Regent Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Hiroshi Kawasaki
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Takara-machi 13-1, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - David Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC 3083, Australia
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Iqbal W, Wang Y, Sun P, Zhou X. Modeling Liver Development and Disease in a Dish. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15921. [PMID: 37958904 PMCID: PMC10650907 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115921] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Historically, biological research has relied primarily on animal models. While this led to the understanding of numerous human biological processes, inherent species-specific differences make it difficult to answer certain liver-related developmental and disease-specific questions. The advent of 3D organoid models that are either derived from pluripotent stem cells or generated from healthy or diseased tissue-derived stem cells have made it possible to recapitulate the biological aspects of human organs. Organoid technology has been instrumental in understanding the disease mechanism and complements animal models. This review underscores the advances in organoid technology and specifically how liver organoids are used to better understand human-specific biological processes in development and disease. We also discuss advances made in the application of organoid models in drug screening and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Iqbal
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Yaru Wang
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Pingnan Sun
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Xiaoling Zhou
- Stem Cell Research Center, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China; (W.I.); (Y.W.); (P.S.)
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
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Mustapha O, Grochow T, Olopade J, Fietz SA. Neocortex neurogenesis and maturation in the African greater cane rat. Neural Dev 2023; 18:7. [PMID: 37833718 PMCID: PMC10571270 DOI: 10.1186/s13064-023-00175-x] [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: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neocortex development has been extensively studied in altricial rodents such as mouse and rat. Identification of alternative animal models along the "altricial-precocial" spectrum in order to better model and understand neocortex development is warranted. The Greater cane rat (GCR, Thyronomys swinderianus) is an indigenous precocial African rodent. Although basic aspects of brain development in the GCR have been documented, detailed information on neocortex development including the occurrence and abundance of the distinct types of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in the GCR are lacking. METHODS GCR embryos and fetuses were obtained from timed pregnant dams between gestation days 50-140 and their neocortex was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining using characteristic marker proteins for NPCs, neurons and glia cells. Data were compared with existing data on closely related precocial and altricial species, i.e. guinea pig and dwarf rabbit. RESULTS The primary sequence of neuro- and gliogenesis, and neuronal maturation is preserved in the prenatal GCR neocortex. We show that the GCR exhibits a relatively long period of cortical neurogenesis of 70 days. The subventricular zone becomes the major NPC pool during mid-end stages of neurogenesis with Pax6 + NPCs constituting the major basal progenitor subtype in the GCR neocortex. Whereas dendrite formation in the GCR cortical plate appears to initiate immediately after the onset of neurogenesis, major aspects of axon formation and maturation, and astrogenesis do not begin until mid-neurogenesis. Similar to the guinea pig, the GCR neocortex exhibits a high maturation status, containing neurons with well-developed dendrites and myelinated axons and astrocytes at birth, thus providing further evidence for the notion that a great proportion of neocortex growth and maturation in precocial mammals occurs before birth. CONCLUSIONS Together, this work has deepened our understanding of neocortex development of the GCR, of the timing and the cellular differences that regulate brain growth and development within the altricial-precocial spectrum and its suitability as a research model for neurodevelopmental studies. The timelines of brain development provided by this study may serve as empirical reference data and foundation in future studies in order to model and better understand neurodevelopment and associated alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwaseun Mustapha
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Grochow
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - James Olopade
- Neuroscience Unit, Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Simone A Fietz
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
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9
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Paolino A, Haines EH, Bailey EJ, Black DA, Moey C, García-Moreno F, Richards LJ, Suárez R, Fenlon LR. Non-uniform temporal scaling of developmental processes in the mammalian cortex. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5950. [PMID: 37741828 PMCID: PMC10517946 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41652-5] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The time that it takes the brain to develop is highly variable across animals. Although staging systems equate major developmental milestones between mammalian species, it remains unclear how distinct processes of cortical development scale within these timeframes. Here, we compare the timing of cortical development in two mammals of similar size but different developmental pace: eutherian mice and marsupial fat-tailed dunnarts. Our results reveal that the temporal relationship between cell birth and laminar specification aligns to equivalent stages between these species, but that migration and axon extension do not scale uniformly according to the developmental stages, and are relatively more advanced in dunnarts. We identify a lack of basal intermediate progenitor cells in dunnarts that likely contributes in part to this timing difference. These findings demonstrate temporal limitations and differential plasticity of cortical developmental processes between similarly sized Therians and provide insight into subtle temporal changes that may have contributed to the early diversification of the mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Paolino
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Elizabeth H Haines
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Evan J Bailey
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Dylan A Black
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ching Moey
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Fernando García-Moreno
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, Scientific Park of the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940, Leioa, Spain
- IKERBASQUE Foundation, María Díaz de Haro 3, 48013, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Linda J Richards
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
- Washington University in St Louis School of Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, St Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Rodrigo Suárez
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Laura R Fenlon
- The University of Queensland, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Brain Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
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10
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Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons. In this Spotlight, we explore the idea that genetic forms of neurodegenerative disorders might be rooted in neural development. Focusing on Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Huntington's disease, we first provide a brief overview of the pathology for these diseases. Although neurodegenerative diseases are generally thought of as late-onset diseases, we discuss recent evidence promoting the notion that they might be considered neurodevelopmental disorders. With this view in mind, we consider the suitability of animal models for studying these diseases, highlighting human-specific features of human brain development. We conclude by proposing that one such feature, human-specific regulation of neurogenic time, might be key to understanding the etiology and pathophysiology of human neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Shabani
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Bassem A. Hassan
- Institut du Cerveau – Paris Brain Institute – ICM, Sorbonne Université, Inserm, CNRS, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France
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11
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Gkini V, Namba T. Glutaminolysis and the Control of Neural Progenitors in Neocortical Development and Evolution. Neuroscientist 2023; 29:177-189. [PMID: 35057642 PMCID: PMC10018057 DOI: 10.1177/10738584211069060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Multiple types of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) contribute to the development of the neocortex, a brain region responsible for our higher cognitive abilities. Proliferative capacity of NPCs varies among NPC types, developmental stages, and species. The higher proliferative capacity of NPCs in the developing human neocortex is thought to be a major contributing factor why humans have the most expanded neocortex within primates. Recent studies have shed light on the importance of cell metabolism in the neocortical NPC proliferative capacity. Specifically, glutaminolysis, a metabolic pathway that converts glutamine to glutamate and then to α-ketoglutarate, has been shown to play a critical role in human NPCs, both in apical and basal progenitors. In this review, we summarize our current knowledge of NPC metabolism, focusing especially on glutaminolysis, and discuss the role of NPC metabolism in neocortical development, evolution, and neurodevelopmental disorders, providing a broader perspective on a newly emerging research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Gkini
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE—Helsinki
Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Takashi Namba
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE—Helsinki
Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Takashi Namba, Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE
— Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, PO 63,
Haartmaninkatu 8, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
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12
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Lafferty MJ, Aygün N, Patel NK, Krupa O, Liang D, Wolter JM, Geschwind DH, de la Torre-Ubieta L, Stein JL. MicroRNA-eQTLs in the developing human neocortex link miR-4707-3p expression to brain size. eLife 2023; 12:e79488. [PMID: 36629315 PMCID: PMC9859047 DOI: 10.7554/elife.79488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data have proven important for linking non-coding loci to protein-coding genes. But eQTL studies rarely measure microRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNAs known to play a role in human brain development and neurogenesis. Here, we performed small-RNA sequencing across 212 mid-gestation human neocortical tissue samples, measured 907 expressed miRNAs, discovering 111 of which were novel, and identified 85 local-miRNA-eQTLs. Colocalization of miRNA-eQTLs with GWAS summary statistics yielded one robust colocalization of miR-4707-3p expression with educational attainment and brain size phenotypes, where the miRNA expression increasing allele was associated with decreased brain size. Exogenous expression of miR-4707-3p in primary human neural progenitor cells decreased expression of predicted targets and increased cell proliferation, indicating miR-4707-3p modulates progenitor gene regulation and cell fate decisions. Integrating miRNA-eQTLs with existing GWAS yielded evidence of a miRNA that may influence human brain size and function via modulation of neocortical brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Lafferty
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Nil Aygün
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Niyanta K Patel
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Oleh Krupa
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Dan Liang
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Justin M Wolter
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
| | - Daniel H Geschwind
- Neurogenetics Program, Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Luis de la Torre-Ubieta
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesUnited States
| | - Jason L Stein
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, The University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillUnited States
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13
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Massimo M, Long KR. Orchestrating human neocortex development across the scales; from micro to macro. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 130:24-36. [PMID: 34583893 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
How our brains have developed to perform the many complex functions that make us human has long remained a question of great interest. Over the last few decades, many scientists from a wide range of fields have tried to answer this question by aiming to uncover the mechanisms that regulate the development of the human neocortex. They have approached this on different scales, focusing microscopically on individual cells all the way up to macroscopically imaging entire brains within living patients. In this review we will summarise these key findings and how they fit together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Massimo
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine R Long
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, United Kingdom.
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14
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Fasano G, Compagnucci C, Dallapiccola B, Tartaglia M, Lauri A. Teleost Fish and Organoids: Alternative Windows Into the Development of Healthy and Diseased Brains. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:855786. [PMID: 36034498 PMCID: PMC9403253 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.855786] [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: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The variety in the display of animals’ cognition, emotions, and behaviors, typical of humans, has its roots within the anterior-most part of the brain: the forebrain, giving rise to the neocortex in mammals. Our understanding of cellular and molecular events instructing the development of this domain and its multiple adaptations within the vertebrate lineage has progressed in the last decade. Expanding and detailing the available knowledge on regionalization, progenitors’ behavior and functional sophistication of the forebrain derivatives is also key to generating informative models to improve our characterization of heterogeneous and mechanistically unexplored cortical malformations. Classical and emerging mammalian models are irreplaceable to accurately elucidate mechanisms of stem cells expansion and impairments of cortex development. Nevertheless, alternative systems, allowing a considerable reduction of the burden associated with animal experimentation, are gaining popularity to dissect basic strategies of neural stem cells biology and morphogenesis in health and disease and to speed up preclinical drug testing. Teleost vertebrates such as zebrafish, showing conserved core programs of forebrain development, together with patients-derived in vitro 2D and 3D models, recapitulating more accurately human neurogenesis, are now accepted within translational workflows spanning from genetic analysis to functional investigation. Here, we review the current knowledge of common and divergent mechanisms shaping the forebrain in vertebrates, and causing cortical malformations in humans. We next address the utility, benefits and limitations of whole-brain/organism-based fish models or neuronal ensembles in vitro for translational research to unravel key genes and pathological mechanisms involved in neurodevelopmental diseases.
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15
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Corsini NS, Knoblich JA. Human organoids: New strategies and methods for analyzing human development and disease. Cell 2022; 185:2756-2769. [PMID: 35868278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2022.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
For decades, insight into fundamental principles of human biology and disease has been obtained primarily by experiments in animal models. While this has allowed researchers to understand many human biological processes in great detail, some developmental and disease mechanisms have proven difficult to study due to inherent species differences. The advent of organoid technology more than 10 years ago has established laboratory-grown organ tissues as an additional model system to recapitulate human-specific aspects of biology. The use of human 3D organoids, as well as other advances in single-cell technologies, has revealed unprecedented insights into human biology and disease mechanisms, especially those that distinguish humans from other species. This review highlights novel advances in organoid biology with a focus on how organoid technology has generated a better understanding of human-specific processes in development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina S Corsini
- IMBA - Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
| | - Juergen A Knoblich
- IMBA - Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna Biocenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria; Medical University of Vienna, Department of Neurology, Vienna, Austria.
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16
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Espinós A, Fernández‐Ortuño E, Negri E, Borrell V. Evolution of genetic mechanisms regulating cortical neurogenesis. Dev Neurobiol 2022; 82:428-453. [PMID: 35670518 PMCID: PMC9543202 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The size of the cerebral cortex increases dramatically across amniotes, from reptiles to great apes. This is primarily due to different numbers of neurons and glial cells produced during embryonic development. The evolutionary expansion of cortical neurogenesis was linked to changes in neural stem and progenitor cells, which acquired increased capacity of self‐amplification and neuron production. Evolution works via changes in the genome, and recent studies have identified a small number of new genes that emerged in the recent human and primate lineages, promoting cortical progenitor proliferation and increased neurogenesis. However, most of the mammalian genome corresponds to noncoding DNA that contains gene‐regulatory elements, and recent evidence precisely points at changes in expression levels of conserved genes as key in the evolution of cortical neurogenesis. Here, we provide an overview of basic cellular mechanisms involved in cortical neurogenesis across amniotes, and discuss recent progress on genetic mechanisms that may have changed during evolution, including gene expression regulation, leading to the expansion of the cerebral cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Espinós
- Instituto de Neurociencias CSIC ‐ UMH, 03550 Sant Joan d'Alacant Spain
| | | | - Enrico Negri
- Instituto de Neurociencias CSIC ‐ UMH, 03550 Sant Joan d'Alacant Spain
| | - Víctor Borrell
- Instituto de Neurociencias CSIC ‐ UMH, 03550 Sant Joan d'Alacant Spain
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17
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Mora-Bermúdez F, Huttner WB. What Are the Human-Specific Aspects of Neocortex Development? Front Neurosci 2022; 16:878950. [PMID: 35495057 PMCID: PMC9047014 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.878950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
When considering what makes us human, the development of the neocortex, the seat of our higher cognitive abilities, is of central importance. Throughout this complex developmental process, neocortical stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) exert a priming role in determining neocortical tissue fate, through a series of cellular and molecular events. In this Perspective article, we address five questions of relevance for potentially human-specific aspects of NSPCs, (i) Are there human-specific NSPC subtypes? (ii) What is the functional significance of the known temporal differences in NSPC dynamics between human and other great apes? (iii) Are there functional interactions between the human-specific genes preferentially expressed in NSPCs? (iv) Do humans amplify certain metabolic pathways for NSPC proliferation? and finally (v) Have differences evolved during human evolution, notably between modern humans and Neandertals, that affect the performance of key genes operating in NSPCs? We discuss potential implications inherent to these questions, and suggest experimental approaches on how to answer them, hoping to provide incentives to further understand key issues of human cortical development.
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18
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Becker T, Cappel C, Di Matteo F, Sonsalla G, Kaminska E, Spada F, Cappello S, Damme M, Kielkowski P. AMPylation profiling during neuronal differentiation reveals extensive variation on lysosomal proteins. iScience 2021; 24:103521. [PMID: 34917898 PMCID: PMC8668991 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein AMPylation is a posttranslational modification with an emerging role in neurodevelopment. In metazoans two highly conserved protein AMP-transferases together with a diverse group of AMPylated proteins have been identified using chemical proteomics and biochemical techniques. However, the function of AMPylation remains largely unknown. Particularly problematic is the localization of thus far identified AMPylated proteins and putative AMP-transferases. We show that protein AMPylation is likely a posttranslational modification of luminal lysosomal proteins characteristic in differentiating neurons. Through a combination of chemical proteomics, gel-based separation of modified and unmodified proteins, and an activity assay, we determine that the modified, lysosomal soluble form of exonuclease PLD3 increases dramatically during neuronal maturation and that AMPylation correlates with its catalytic activity. Together, our findings indicate that AMPylation is a so far unknown lysosomal posttranslational modification connected to neuronal differentiation and it may provide a molecular rationale behind lysosomal storage diseases and neurodegeneration. Profiling of AMPylation during neuronal differentiation AMPylation is a potential PTM of luminal lysosomal proteins Phos-tag gel enables the separation of non-AMPylated and AMPylated proteins The modified lysosomal soluble form of PLD3 increases during neuronal maturation
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Becker
- LMU Munich, Department of Chemistry, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Cedric Cappel
- University of Kiel, Institute of Biochemistry, Olshausenstr. 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Francesco Di Matteo
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstraße 2, 80804 Munich, Germany.,International Max Planck Research School for Translational Psychiatry (IMPRS-TP), Kraepelinstraße 2-10, 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Giovanna Sonsalla
- LMU Munich, Department of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center (BMC), Großhadernerstr. 9, 82152 Planegg, Germany.,Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute for Stem Cell Research, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN), Großhadernerstr. 2, 82152 Planegg, Germany
| | - Ewelina Kaminska
- LMU Munich, Department of Chemistry, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Fabio Spada
- LMU Munich, Department of Chemistry, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Cappello
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Kraepelinstraße 2, 80804 Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Damme
- University of Kiel, Institute of Biochemistry, Olshausenstr. 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Pavel Kielkowski
- LMU Munich, Department of Chemistry, Butenandtstr. 5-13, 81377 Munich, Germany
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19
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Libé-Philippot B, Vanderhaeghen P. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Linking Human Cortical Development and Evolution. Annu Rev Genet 2021; 55:555-581. [PMID: 34535062 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genet-071719-020705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The cerebral cortex is at the core of brain functions that are thought to be particularly developed in the human species. Human cortex specificities stem from divergent features of corticogenesis, leading to increased cortical size and complexity. Underlying cellular mechanisms include prolonged patterns of neuronal generation and maturation, as well as the amplification of specific types of stem/progenitor cells. While the gene regulatory networks of corticogenesis appear to be largely conserved among all mammals including humans, they have evolved in primates, particularly in the human species, through the emergence of rapidly divergent transcriptional regulatory elements, as well as recently duplicated novel genes. These human-specific molecular features together control key cellular milestones of human corticogenesis and are often affected in neurodevelopmental disorders, thus linking human neural development, evolution, and diseases. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Genetics, Volume 55 is November 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Libé-Philippot
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; .,Institut de Recherches Interdisciplinaires en Biologie Humaine et Moléculaire (IRIBHM) and ULB Neuroscience Institute (UNI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre Vanderhaeghen
- VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, KU Leuven Department of Neurosciences, Leuven Brain Institute, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; .,Institut de Recherches Interdisciplinaires en Biologie Humaine et Moléculaire (IRIBHM) and ULB Neuroscience Institute (UNI), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
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20
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Stepien BK, Vaid S, Naumann R, Holtz A, Huttner WB. Generation of interspecies mouse-rat chimeric embryos by embryonic stem (ES) cell microinjection. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100494. [PMID: 34189467 PMCID: PMC8219896 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.100494] [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] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Interspecies chimerism is a useful tool to study interactions between cells of different genetic makeup in order to elucidate the mechanisms underlying non-cell-autonomous processes, including evolutionary events. However, generating interspecies chimeras with high efficiency and chimerism level remains challenging. Here, we describe a protocol for generating chimeras between mouse and rat. Donor embryonic stem cells of one species are microinjected into early embryos of the other species (recipient), which are implanted into host foster mothers of the recipient species. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Stepien et al. (2020). Isolation of ES cells from mouse blastocysts and culture of rodent ES cells Microinjection of mouse ES cells into early rat embryos and vice versa Transfer of chimeric embryos into pseudo-pregnant foster mothers Generation of mouse-rat chimeric brains
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K Stepien
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany.,Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl-Gustav-Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Samir Vaid
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Ronald Naumann
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Anja Holtz
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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21
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Pinson A, Huttner WB. Neocortex expansion in development and evolution-from genes to progenitor cell biology. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2021; 73:9-18. [PMID: 34098196 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2021.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionary expansion of the neocortex, the seat of higher cognitive functions in humans, is primarily due to an increased and prolonged proliferation of neural progenitor cells during development. Basal progenitors, and in particular basal radial glial cells, are thought to have a key role in the increased generation of neurons that constitutes a foundation of neocortex expansion. Recent studies have identified primate-specific and human-specific genes and changes in gene expression that promote increased proliferative capacity of cortical progenitors. In many cases, the cell biological basis underlying this increase has been uncovered. Model systems such as mouse, ferret, nonhuman primates, and cerebral organoids have been used to establish the relevance of these genes for neocortex expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneline Pinson
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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22
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Kalusa M, Heinrich MD, Sauerland C, Morawski M, Fietz SA. Developmental Differences in Neocortex Neurogenesis and Maturation Between the Altricial Dwarf Rabbit and Precocial Guinea Pig. Front Neuroanat 2021; 15:678385. [PMID: 34135738 PMCID: PMC8200626 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2021.678385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammals are born on a precocial-altricial continuum. Altricial species produce helpless neonates with closed distant organs incapable of locomotion, whereas precocial species give birth to well-developed young that possess sophisticated sensory and locomotor capabilities. Previous studies suggest that distinct patterns of cortex development differ between precocial and altricial species. This study compares patterns of neocortex neurogenesis and maturation in the precocial guinea pig and altricial dwarf rabbit, both belonging to the taxon of Glires. We show that the principal order of neurodevelopmental events is preserved in the neocortex of both species. Moreover, we show that neurogenesis starts at a later postconceptional day and takes longer in absolute gestational days in the precocial than the altricial neocortex. Intriguingly, our data indicate that the dwarf rabbit neocortex contains a higher abundance of highly proliferative basal progenitors than the guinea pig, which might underlie its higher encephalization quotient, demonstrating that the amount of neuron production is determined by complex regulation of multiple factors. Furthermore, we show that the guinea pig neocortex exhibits a higher maturation status at birth, thus providing evidence for the notions that precocial species might have acquired the morphological machinery required to attain their high functional state at birth and that brain expansion in the precocial newborn is mainly due to prenatally initiating processes of gliogenesis and neuron differentiation instead of increased neurogenesis. Together, this study reveals important insights into the timing and cellular differences that regulate mammalian brain growth and maturation and provides a better understanding of the evolution of mammalian altriciality and presociality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Kalusa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maren D Heinrich
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christine Sauerland
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Markus Morawski
- Medical Faculty, Paul Flechsig Institute of Brain Research, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Simone A Fietz
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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23
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Lupan BM, Silver DL. Evolution: Does More Time Buy More Neurons? Curr Biol 2021; 30:R1316-R1318. [PMID: 33142101 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.08.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Brain expansion and increased neuronal number are hallmarks of cortical evolution, particularly in humans. A new study establishes a link between the length of gestation, neurogenesis, the maternal environment, and key features associated with more complex brains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca M Lupan
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Debra L Silver
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Departments of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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24
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Stepien BK, Vaid S, Huttner WB. Length of the Neurogenic Period-A Key Determinant for the Generation of Upper-Layer Neurons During Neocortex Development and Evolution. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:676911. [PMID: 34055808 PMCID: PMC8155536 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.676911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The neocortex, a six-layer neuronal brain structure that arose during the evolution of, and is unique to, mammals, is the seat of higher order brain functions responsible for human cognitive abilities. Despite its recent evolutionary origin, it shows a striking variability in size and folding complexity even among closely related mammalian species. In most mammals, cortical neurogenesis occurs prenatally, and its length correlates with the length of gestation. The evolutionary expansion of the neocortex, notably in human, is associated with an increase in the number of neurons, particularly within its upper layers. Various mechanisms have been proposed and investigated to explain the evolutionary enlargement of the human neocortex, focussing in particular on changes pertaining to neural progenitor types and their division modes, driven in part by the emergence of human-specific genes with novel functions. These led to an amplification of the progenitor pool size, which affects the rate and timing of neuron production. In addition, in early theoretical studies, another mechanism of neocortex expansion was proposed—the lengthening of the neurogenic period. A critical role of neurogenic period length in determining neocortical neuron number was subsequently supported by mathematical modeling studies. Recently, we have provided experimental evidence in rodents directly supporting the mechanism of extending neurogenesis to specifically increase the number of upper-layer cortical neurons. Moreover, our study examined the relationship between cortical neurogenesis and gestation, linking the extension of the neurogenic period to the maternal environment. As the exact nature of factors promoting neurogenic period prolongation, as well as the generalization of this mechanism for evolutionary distinct lineages, remain elusive, the directions for future studies are outlined and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara K Stepien
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Max Planck Society (MPG), Munich, Germany.,Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, School of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Samir Vaid
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Max Planck Society (MPG), Munich, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Max Planck Society (MPG), Munich, Germany
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25
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Mora-Bermúdez F, Taverna E, Huttner WB. From stem and progenitor cells to neurons in the developing neocortex: key differences among hominids. FEBS J 2021; 289:1524-1535. [PMID: 33638923 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Comparing the biology of humans to that of other primates, and notably other hominids, is a useful path to learn more about what makes us human. Some of the most interesting differences among hominids are closely related to brain development and function, for example behaviour and cognition. This makes it particularly interesting to compare the hominid neural cells of the neocortex, a part of the brain that plays central roles in those processes. However, well-preserved tissue from great apes is usually extremely difficult to obtain. A variety of new alternative tools, for example brain organoids, are now beginning to make it possible to search for such differences and analyse their potential biological and biomedical meaning. Here, we present an overview of recent findings from comparisons of the neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) and neurons of hominids. In addition to differences in proliferation and differentiation of NSPCs, and maturation of neurons, we highlight that the regulation of the timing of these processes is emerging as a general foundational difference in the development of the neocortex of hominids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Mora-Bermúdez
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elena Taverna
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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26
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Adibi JJ, Xun X, Zhao Y, Yin Q, LeWinn K, Bush NR, Panigrahy A, Peddada S, Alfthan H, Stenman UH, Tylavsky F, Koistinen H. Second-Trimester Placental and Thyroid Hormones Are Associated With Cognitive Development From Ages 1 to 3 Years. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab027. [PMID: 33928202 PMCID: PMC8064052 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate maternal thyroid hormone (TH) is necessary for fetal brain development. The role of placental human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in ensuring the production of TH is less well understood. The objective of the study was to evaluate 1) associations of placental hCG and its subunits, and maternal TH in the second trimester, and 2) the single and joint effects of TH and placental hormones on cognitive development and communication at ages 1 and 3 years. Fifty individuals (5%) were selected from the CANDLE (Conditions Affecting Neurocognitive Development and Early Learning) pregnancy cohort in Memphis, Tennessee, with recruitment from 2006 to 2011, to equally represent male and female fetuses. Participants were 68% Black and 32% White. Hormones measured were maternal thyroid (thyrotropin [TSH] and free thyroxine [FT4]) and placental hormones (hCG, its hyperglycosylated form [hCG-h], and free - [hCG] and -subunits [hCG]) in maternal serum (17-28 weeks). The primary outcome measurement was the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development. All forms of hCG were negatively associated with FT4 and not associated with TSH. hCG was associated with cognitive development at age 1 year and jointly interacted with TSH to predict cognitive development at age 3 years. This pilot study added insight into the thyrotropic actions of hCG in the second trimester, and into the significance of this mechanism for brain development. More research is warranted to elucidate differences between hCG, hCG, and hCG-h in relation to TH regulation and child brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer J Adibi
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Xiaoshuang Xun
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Yaqi Zhao
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Qing Yin
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Kaja LeWinn
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Nicole R Bush
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | - Ashok Panigrahy
- UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15224, USA
| | - Shyamal Peddada
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Henrik Alfthan
- HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ulf-Håkan Stenman
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Hannu Koistinen
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
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27
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Soto-Perez J, Baumgartner M, Kanadia RN. Role of NDE1 in the Development and Evolution of the Gyrified Cortex. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:617513. [PMID: 33390896 PMCID: PMC7775536 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.617513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An expanded cortex is a hallmark of human neurodevelopment and endows increased cognitive capabilities. Recent work has shown that the cell cycle-related gene NDE1 is essential for proper cortical development. Patients who have mutations in NDE1 exhibit congenital microcephaly as a primary phenotype. At the cellular level, NDE1 is essential for interkinetic nuclear migration and mitosis of radial glial cells, which translates to an indispensable role in neurodevelopment. The nuclear migration function of NDE1 is well conserved across Opisthokonta. In mammals, multiple isoforms containing alternate terminal exons, which influence the functionality of NDE1, have been reported. It has been noted that the pattern of terminal exon usage mirrors patterns of cortical complexity in mammals. To provide context to these findings, here, we provide a comprehensive review of the literature regarding NDE1, its molecular biology and physiological relevance at the cellular and organismal levels. In particular, we outline the potential roles of NDE1 in progenitor cell behavior and explore the spectrum of NDE1 pathogenic variants. Moreover, we assessed the evolutionary conservation of NDE1 and interrogated whether the usage of alternative terminal exons is characteristic of species with gyrencephalic cortices. We found that gyrencephalic species are more likely to express transcripts that use the human-associated terminal exon, whereas lissencephalic species tend to express transcripts that use the mouse-associated terminal exon. Among gyrencephalic species, the human-associated terminal exon was preferentially expressed by those with a high order of gyrification. These findings underscore phylogenetic relationships between the preferential usage of NDE1 terminal exon and high-order gyrification, which provide insight into cortical evolution underlying high-order brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaseph Soto-Perez
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
| | | | - Rahul N. Kanadia
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Institute for Systems Genomics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
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28
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Namba T, Nardelli J, Gressens P, Huttner WB. Metabolic Regulation of Neocortical Expansion in Development and Evolution. Neuron 2020; 109:408-419. [PMID: 33306962 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The neocortex, the seat of our higher cognitive abilities, has expanded in size during the evolution of certain mammals such as primates, including humans. This expansion occurs during development and is linked to the proliferative capacity of neural stem and progenitor cells (NPCs) in the neocortex. A number of cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic factors have been implicated in increasing NPC proliferative capacity. However, NPC metabolism has only recently emerged as major regulator of NPC proliferation. In this Perspective, we summarize recent insights into the role of NPC metabolism in neocortical development and neurodevelopmental disorders and its relevance for neocortex evolution. We discuss certain human-specific genes and microcephaly-implicated genes that operate in, or at, the mitochondria of NPCs and stimulate their proliferation by promoting glutaminolysis. We also discuss other metabolic pathways and develop a perspective on how metabolism mechanistically regulates NPC proliferation in neocortical development and how this contributed to neocortex evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Namba
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany; Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE - Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Pierre Gressens
- Université de Paris, NeuroDiderot, Inserm, 75019 Paris, France.
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Pfotenhauerstrasse 108, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
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