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Sterling NA, Cho SH, Kim S. Entosis implicates a new role for P53 in microcephaly pathogenesis, beyond apoptosis. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300245. [PMID: 38778437 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Entosis, a form of cell cannibalism, is a newly discovered pathogenic mechanism leading to the development of small brains, termed microcephaly, in which P53 activation was found to play a major role. Microcephaly with entosis, found in Pals1 mutant mice, displays P53 activation that promotes entosis and apoptotic cell death. This previously unappreciated pathogenic mechanism represents a novel cellular dynamic in dividing cortical progenitors which is responsible for cell loss. To date, various recent models of microcephaly have bolstered the importance of P53 activation in cell death leading to microcephaly. P53 activation caused by mitotic delay or DNA damage manifests apoptotic cell death which can be suppressed by P53 removal in these animal models. Such genetic studies attest P53 activation as quality control meant to eliminate genomically unfit cells with minimal involvement in the actual function of microcephaly associated genes. In this review, we summarize the known role of P53 activation in a variety of microcephaly models and introduce a novel mechanism wherein entotic cell cannibalism in neural progenitors is triggered by P53 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle A Sterling
- Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Seo-Hee Cho
- Center for Translational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Sydney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Seonhee Kim
- Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Department of Neural Sciences, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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2
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Jiang YN, Gao Y, Lai X, Li X, Liu G, Ding M, Wang Z, Guo Z, Qin Y, Li X, Sun L, Wang ZQ, Zhou ZW. Microcephaly Gene Mcph1 Deficiency Induces p19ARF-Dependent Cell Cycle Arrest and Senescence. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4597. [PMID: 38731817 PMCID: PMC11083351 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094597] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
MCPH1 has been identified as the causal gene for primary microcephaly type 1, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by reduced brain size and delayed growth. As a multifunction protein, MCPH1 has been reported to repress the expression of TERT and interact with transcriptional regulator E2F1. However, it remains unclear whether MCPH1 regulates brain development through its transcriptional regulation function. This study showed that the knockout of Mcph1 in mice leads to delayed growth as early as the embryo stage E11.5. Transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq) revealed that the deletion of Mcph1 resulted in changes in the expression levels of a limited number of genes. Although the expression of some of E2F1 targets, such as Satb2 and Cdkn1c, was affected, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were not significantly enriched as E2F1 target genes. Further investigations showed that primary and immortalized Mcph1 knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) exhibited cell cycle arrest and cellular senescence phenotype. Interestingly, the upregulation of p19ARF was detected in Mcph1 knockout MEFs, and silencing p19Arf restored the cell cycle and growth arrest to wild-type levels. Our findings suggested it is unlikely that MCPH1 regulates neurodevelopment through E2F1-mediated transcriptional regulation, and p19ARF-dependent cell cycle arrest and cellular senescence may contribute to the developmental abnormalities observed in primary microcephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Nan Jiang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Yizhen Gao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbes and Biosafety, School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.G.); (L.S.)
| | - Xianxin Lai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Xinjie Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Gen Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbes and Biosafety, School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.G.); (L.S.)
| | - Mingmei Ding
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Zhiyi Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Zixiang Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Yinying Qin
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbes and Biosafety, School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.G.); (L.S.)
| | - Xin Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
| | - Litao Sun
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbes and Biosafety, School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.G.); (L.S.)
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China;
| | - Zhong-Wei Zhou
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Systems Medicine in Inflammatory Diseases, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China; (Y.-N.J.); (X.L.)
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Abstract
Brain development in humans is achieved through precise spatiotemporal genetic control, the mechanisms of which remain largely elusive. Recently, integration of technological advances in human stem cell-based modelling with genome editing has emerged as a powerful platform to establish causative links between genotypes and phenotypes directly in the human system. Here, we review our current knowledge of complex genetic regulation of each key step of human brain development through the lens of evolutionary specialization and neurodevelopmental disorders and highlight the use of human stem cell-derived 2D cultures and 3D brain organoids to investigate human-enriched features and disease mechanisms. We also discuss opportunities and challenges of integrating new technologies to reveal the genetic architecture of human brain development and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhou
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hongjun Song
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Epigenetics Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Guo-Li Ming
- Department of Neuroscience and Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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4
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Heide M, Huttner WB. Causes of microcephaly in human-theoretical considerations. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1306166. [PMID: 38075281 PMCID: PMC10701273 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1306166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
As is evident from the theme of the Research Topic “Small Size, Big Problem: Understanding the Molecular Orchestra of Brain Development from Microcephaly,” the pathomechanisms leading to mirocephaly in human are at best partially understood. As molecular cell biologists and developmental neurobiologists, we present here a treatise with theoretical considerations that systematically dissect possible causes of microcephaly, which we believe is timely. Our considerations address the cell types affected in microcephaly, that is, the cortical stem and progenitor cells as well as the neurons and macroglial cell generated therefrom. We discuss issues such as progenitor cell types, cell lineages, modes of cell division, cell proliferation and cell survival. We support our theoretical considerations by discussing selected examples of factual cases of microcephaly, in order to point out that there is a much larger range of possible pathomechanisms leading to microcephaly in human than currently known.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Heide
- German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Wieland B. Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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5
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Ribeiro JH, Altinisik N, Rajan N, Verslegers M, Baatout S, Gopalakrishnan J, Quintens R. DNA damage and repair: underlying mechanisms leading to microcephaly. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1268565. [PMID: 37881689 PMCID: PMC10597653 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1268565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA-damaging agents and endogenous DNA damage constantly harm genome integrity. Under genotoxic stress conditions, the DNA damage response (DDR) machinery is crucial in repairing lesions and preventing mutations in the basic structure of the DNA. Different repair pathways are implicated in the resolution of such lesions. For instance, the non-homologous DNA end joining and homologous recombination pathways are central cellular mechanisms by which eukaryotic cells maintain genome integrity. However, defects in these pathways are often associated with neurological disorders, indicating the pivotal role of DDR in normal brain development. Moreover, the brain is the most sensitive organ affected by DNA-damaging agents compared to other tissues during the prenatal period. The accumulation of lesions is believed to induce cell death, reduce proliferation and premature differentiation of neural stem and progenitor cells, and reduce brain size (microcephaly). Microcephaly is mainly caused by genetic mutations, especially genes encoding proteins involved in centrosomes and DNA repair pathways. However, it can also be induced by exposure to ionizing radiation and intrauterine infections such as the Zika virus. This review explains mammalian cortical development and the major DNA repair pathways that may lead to microcephaly when impaired. Next, we discuss the mechanisms and possible exposures leading to DNA damage and p53 hyperactivation culminating in microcephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Honorato Ribeiro
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nazlican Altinisik
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nicholas Rajan
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Mieke Verslegers
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jay Gopalakrishnan
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Roel Quintens
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
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Wu X, Li Z, Wang ZQ, Xu X. The neurological and non-neurological roles of the primary microcephaly-associated protein ASPM. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1242448. [PMID: 37599996 PMCID: PMC10436222 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1242448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary microcephaly (MCPH), is a neurological disorder characterized by small brain size that results in numerous developmental problems, including intellectual disability, motor and speech delays, and seizures. Hitherto, over 30 MCPH causing genes (MCPHs) have been identified. Among these MCPHs, MCPH5, which encodes abnormal spindle-like microcephaly-associated protein (ASPM), is the most frequently mutated gene. ASPM regulates mitotic events, cell proliferation, replication stress response, DNA repair, and tumorigenesis. Moreover, using a data mining approach, we have confirmed that high levels of expression of ASPM correlate with poor prognosis in several types of tumors. Here, we summarize the neurological and non-neurological functions of ASPM and provide insight into its implications for the diagnosis and treatment of MCPH and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxuan Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability and Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Shenzhen University-Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena Joint PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Laboratory of Genome Stability, Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Zheng Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability and Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Shenzhen University-Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena Joint PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Laboratory of Genome Stability, Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Xingzhi Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability and Disease Prevention and Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Shenzhen University-Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena Joint PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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7
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Iegiani G, Ferraro A, Pallavicini G, Di Cunto F. The impact of TP53 activation and apoptosis in primary hereditary microcephaly. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1220010. [PMID: 37457016 PMCID: PMC10338886 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1220010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a constellation of disorders that share significant brain size reduction and mild to moderate intellectual disability, which may be accompanied by a large variety of more invalidating clinical signs. Extensive neural progenitor cells (NPC) proliferation and differentiation are essential to determine brain final size. Accordingly, the 30 MCPH loci mapped so far (MCPH1-MCPH30) encode for proteins involved in microtubule and spindle organization, centriole biogenesis, nuclear envelope, DNA replication and repair, underscoring that a wide variety of cellular processes is required for sustaining NPC expansion during development. Current models propose that altered balance between symmetric and asymmetric division, as well as premature differentiation, are the main mechanisms leading to MCPH. Although studies of cellular alterations in microcephaly models have constantly shown the co-existence of high DNA damage and apoptosis levels, these mechanisms are less considered as primary factors. In this review we highlight how the molecular and cellular events produced by mutation of the majority of MCPH genes may converge on apoptotic death of NPCs and neurons, via TP53 activation. We propose that these mechanisms should be more carefully considered in the alterations of the sophisticated equilibrium between proliferation, differentiation and death produced by MCPH gene mutations. In consideration of the potential druggability of cell apoptotic pathways, a better understanding of their role in MCPH may significantly facilitate the development of translational approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Iegiani
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessia Ferraro
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Turin, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Pallavicini
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Turin, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Di Cunto
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Turin, Italy
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8
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Asif M, Abdullah U, Nürnberg P, Tinschert S, Hussain MS. Congenital Microcephaly: A Debate on Diagnostic Challenges and Etiological Paradigm of the Shift from Isolated/Non-Syndromic to Syndromic Microcephaly. Cells 2023; 12:cells12040642. [PMID: 36831309 PMCID: PMC9954724 DOI: 10.3390/cells12040642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Congenital microcephaly (CM) exhibits broad clinical and genetic heterogeneity and is thus categorized into several subtypes. However, the recent bloom of disease-gene discoveries has revealed more overlaps than differences in the underlying genetic architecture for these clinical sub-categories, complicating the differential diagnosis. Moreover, the mechanism of the paradigm shift from a brain-restricted to a multi-organ phenotype is only vaguely understood. This review article highlights the critical factors considered while defining CM subtypes. It also presents possible arguments on long-standing questions of the brain-specific nature of CM caused by a dysfunction of the ubiquitously expressed proteins. We argue that brain-specific splicing events and organ-restricted protein expression may contribute in part to disparate clinical manifestations. We also highlight the role of genetic modifiers and de novo variants in the multi-organ phenotype of CM and emphasize their consideration in molecular characterization. This review thus attempts to expand our understanding of the phenotypic and etiological variability in CM and invites the development of more comprehensive guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Asif
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Uzma Abdullah
- University Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology (UIBB), PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi 46300, Pakistan
| | - Peter Nürnberg
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Sigrid Tinschert
- Zentrum Medizinische Genetik, Medizinische Universität, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Muhammad Sajid Hussain
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Prasad T, Iyer S, Chatterjee S, Kumar M. In vivo models to study neurogenesis and associated neurodevelopmental disorders-Microcephaly and autism spectrum disorder. WIREs Mech Dis 2023:e1603. [PMID: 36754084 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1603] [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: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The genesis and functioning of the central nervous system are one of the most intricate and intriguing aspects of embryogenesis. The big lacuna in the field of human CNS development is the lack of accessibility of the human brain for direct observation during embryonic and fetal development. Thus, it is imperative to establish alternative animal models to gain deep mechanistic insights into neurodevelopment, establishment of neural circuitry, and its function. Neurodevelopmental events such as neural specification, differentiation, and generation of neuronal and non-neuronal cell types have been comprehensively studied using a variety of animal models and in vitro model systems derived from human cells. The experimentations on animal models have revealed novel, mechanistic insights into neurogenesis, formation of neural networks, and function. The models, thus serve as indispensable tools to understand the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) arising from aberrations during embryonic development. Here, we review the spectrum of in vivo models such as fruitfly, zebrafish, frog, mice, and nonhuman primates to study neurogenesis and NDDs like microcephaly and Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also discuss nonconventional models such as ascidians and the recent technological advances in the field to study neurogenesis, disease mechanisms, and pathophysiology of human NDDs. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuhina Prasad
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sharada Iyer
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Sayoni Chatterjee
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Megha Kumar
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
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10
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Damianidou E, Mouratidou L, Kyrousi C. Research models of neurodevelopmental disorders: The right model in the right place. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1031075. [PMID: 36340790 PMCID: PMC9630472 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1031075] [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: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) are a heterogeneous group of impairments that affect the development of the central nervous system leading to abnormal brain function. NDDs affect a great percentage of the population worldwide, imposing a high societal and economic burden and thus, interest in this field has widely grown in recent years. Nevertheless, the complexity of human brain development and function as well as the limitations regarding human tissue usage make their modeling challenging. Animal models play a central role in the investigation of the implicated molecular and cellular mechanisms, however many of them display key differences regarding human phenotype and in many cases, they partially or completely fail to recapitulate them. Although in vitro two-dimensional (2D) human-specific models have been highly used to address some of these limitations, they lack crucial features such as complexity and heterogeneity. In this review, we will discuss the advantages, limitations and future applications of in vivo and in vitro models that are used today to model NDDs. Additionally, we will describe the recent development of 3-dimensional brain (3D) organoids which offer a promising approach as human-specific in vitro models to decipher these complex disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Damianidou
- University Mental Health, Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, Athens, Greece
| | - Lidia Mouratidou
- University Mental Health, Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, Athens, Greece
- First Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Kyrousi
- University Mental Health, Neurosciences and Precision Medicine Research Institute “Costas Stefanis”, Athens, Greece
- First Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- *Correspondence: Christina Kyrousi,
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11
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Abstract
The current understanding of neurological diseases is derived mostly from direct analysis of patients and from animal models of disease. However, most patient studies do not capture the earliest stages of disease development and offer limited opportunities for experimental intervention, so rarely yield complete mechanistic insights. The use of animal models relies on evolutionary conservation of pathways involved in disease and is limited by an inability to recreate human-specific processes. In vitro models that are derived from human pluripotent stem cells cultured in 3D have emerged as a new model system that could bridge the gap between patient studies and animal models. In this Review, we summarize how such organoid models can complement classical approaches to accelerate neurological research. We describe our current understanding of neurodevelopment and how this process differs between humans and other animals, making human-derived models of disease essential. We discuss different methodologies for producing organoids and how organoids can be and have been used to model neurological disorders, including microcephaly, Zika virus infection, Alzheimer disease and other neurodegenerative disorders, and neurodevelopmental diseases, such as Timothy syndrome, Angelman syndrome and tuberous sclerosis. We also discuss the current limitations of organoid models and outline how organoids can be used to revolutionize research into the human brain and neurological diseases. In this Review, Eichmüller and Knoblich discuss how human brain organoids can recapitulate the unique processes that occur in human brain development and how they can complement classical approaches to revolutionize research into neurological diseases. Development of the human brain involves unique processes that are relevant to neurological disease but cannot be studied in animal models, so alternative model systems are required. Organoids are 3D human cell culture models that originate from pluripotent stem cells and recapitulate the hallmarks of human neurodevelopment, enabling studies of human brain development in vitro. Specific mutations can be introduced into organoids to study their effects on neurodevelopment; combined with high-throughput screening methods, this approach can determine the disease relevance of mutations in human tissue. To study specific diseases, brain organoids can be generated from induced pluripotent stem cells from individual patients, thereby preserving the specific genetic background of the individual and generating an insightful model. Through recapitulation of previously inaccessible periods of human brain development, brain organoids have enabled identification of novel mechanisms that underlie neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative and infectious diseases. Combining organoids, patient research and animal models enables us to take full advantage of each of these systems and will provide unprecedented insights into neurodevelopment and neurological diseases.
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Jaylet T, Quintens R, Benotmane MA, Luukkonen J, Tanaka IB, Ibanez C, Durand C, Sachana M, Azimzadeh O, Adam-Guillermin C, Tollefsen KE, Laurent O, Audouze K, Armant O. Development of an Adverse Outcome Pathway for radiation-induced microcephaly via expert consultation and machine learning. Int J Radiat Biol 2022; 98:1752-1762. [PMID: 35947014 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2110312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain development during embryogenesis and in early postnatal life is particularly complex and involves the interplay of many cellular processes and molecular mechanisms, making it extremely vulnerable to exogenous insults, including ionizing radiation (IR). Microcephaly is one of the most frequent neurodevelopmental abnormalities that is characterized by small brain size, and is often associated with intellectual deficiency. Decades of research span from epidemiological data on in utero exposure of the A-bomb survivors, to studies on animal and cellular models that allowed deciphering the most prominent molecular mechanisms leading to microcephaly. The Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework is used to organize, evaluate and portray the scientific knowledge of toxicological effects spanning different biological levels of organizations, from the initial interaction with molecular targets to the occurrence of a disease or adversity. In the present study, the framework was used in an attempt to organize the current scientific knowledge on microcephaly progression in the context of ionizing radiation (IR) exposure. This work was performed by a group of experts formed during a recent workshop organized jointly by the Multidisciplinary European Low Dose Initiative (MELODI) and the European Radioecology Alliance (ALLIANCE) associations to present the AOP approach and tools. Here we report on the development of a putative AOP for congenital microcephaly resulting from IR exposure based on discussions of the working group and we emphasize the use of a novel machine-learning approach to assist in the screening of the available literature to develop AOPs. CONCLUSION The expert consultation led to the identification of crucial biological events for the progression of microcephaly upon exposure to IR, and highlighted current knowledge gaps. The machine learning approach was successfully used to screen the existing knowledge and helped to rapidly screen the body of evidence and in particular the epidemiological data. This systematic review approach also ensured that the analysis was sufficiently comprehensive to identify the most relevant data and facilitate rapid and consistent AOP development. We anticipate that as machine learning approaches become more user-friendly through easy-to-use web interface, this would allow AOP development to become more efficient and less time consuming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Jaylet
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, Inserm UMRS 1124, Paris, France
| | - Roel Quintens
- Radiobiology Unit, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK-CEN, Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Jukka Luukkonen
- University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio Campus, Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | - Ignacia Braga Tanaka
- Department of Radiobiology, Institute for Environmental Sciences, 1-7 lenomae, Obuchi, Rokkasho-mura, Kamikita-gun, Aomori 039-3212, Japan
| | - Chrystelle Ibanez
- PSE-SANTE/SESANE/LRTOX Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), F-92262, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Christelle Durand
- PSE-SANTE/SESANE/LRTOX Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), F-92262, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Magdalini Sachana
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Environment Health and Safety Division, 75775 CEDEX 16 Paris, France
| | - Omid Azimzadeh
- Federal Office for Radiation Protection (Bfs), Section Radiation Biology, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Christelle Adam-Guillermin
- PSE-SANTE/SDOS/LMDN, Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Cadarache, 13115 Saint-Paul-Lez-Durance, France
| | - Knut Erik Tollefsen
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, N-0579, Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Post box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway.,Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Post box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Olivier Laurent
- PSE-SANTE/SESANE/LEPID, Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), F-92262, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Karine Audouze
- Université Paris Cité, T3S, Inserm UMRS 1124, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Armant
- PSE-ENV/SRTE/LECO, Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Cadarache, 13115 Saint-Paul-Lez-Durance, France
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13
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Kim H, Gao EB, Draper A, Berens NC, Vihma H, Zhang X, Higashi-Howard A, Ritola KD, Simon JM, Kennedy AJ, Philpot BD. Rescue of behavioral and electrophysiological phenotypes in a Pitt-Hopkins syndrome mouse model by genetic restoration of Tcf4 expression. eLife 2022; 11:e72290. [PMID: 35535852 PMCID: PMC9090324 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pitt-Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by monoallelic mutation or deletion in the transcription factor 4 (TCF4) gene. Individuals with PTHS typically present in the first year of life with developmental delay and exhibit intellectual disability, lack of speech, and motor incoordination. There are no effective treatments available for PTHS, but the root cause of the disorder, TCF4 haploinsufficiency, suggests that it could be treated by normalizing TCF4 gene expression. Here, we performed proof-of-concept viral gene therapy experiments using a conditional Tcf4 mouse model of PTHS and found that postnatally reinstating Tcf4 expression in neurons improved anxiety-like behavior, activity levels, innate behaviors, and memory. Postnatal reinstatement also partially corrected EEG abnormalities, which we characterized here for the first time, and the expression of key TCF4-regulated genes. Our results support a genetic normalization approach as a treatment strategy for PTHS, and possibly other TCF4-linked disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyojin Kim
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Eric B Gao
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Adam Draper
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Noah C Berens
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Hanna Vihma
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Xinyuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, Lewiston, United States
| | | | | | - Jeremy M Simon
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hil, Chapel Hill, United States
| | - Andrew J Kennedy
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Bates College, Lewiston, United States
| | - Benjamin D Philpot
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, United States
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hil, Chapel Hill, United States
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14
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Caraffi SG, Pollazzon M, Farooq M, Fatima A, Larsen LA, Zuntini R, Napoli M, Garavelli L. MCPH1: A Novel Case Report and a Review of the Literature. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040634. [PMID: 35456440 PMCID: PMC9032034 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcephaly primary hereditary (MCPH) is a congenital disease characterized by nonsyndromic reduction in brain size due to impaired neurogenesis, often associated with a variable degree of intellectual disability (ID). The genetic etiology of MCPH is heterogeneous and comprises more than 20 loci, nearly all following a recessive inheritance pattern. The first causative gene identified, MCPH1 or Microcephalin, encodes a centrosomal protein that modulates chromosome condensation and cell cycle progression. It is also involved in DNA damage response and telomere maintenance in the nucleus. Despite numerous studies on MCPH1 function, MCPH1-affected individuals are rare and the available clinical reports are not sufficient to define the natural history of the disease. Here, we present a novel patient with congenital microcephaly, ID, language delay, short stature, and other minor features such as strabismus. magnetic resonance imaging revealed ventriculomegaly, simplified gyral pattern in the frontal lobes, and a neuronal migration defect. Genetic testing detected a homozygous deletion of exons 1–8 of MCPH1. We compare the patients’ characteristics with a list of features from MCPH1 cases described in the literature, in an effort to provide additional clues for a comprehensive definition of disease presentation and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Giuseppe Caraffi
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.P.); (R.Z.); (L.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0522-296802
| | - Marzia Pollazzon
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.P.); (R.Z.); (L.G.)
| | - Muhammad Farooq
- Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (IBBB), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan;
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (IBBB), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur 63100, Pakistan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (A.F.); (L.A.L.)
| | - Ambrin Fatima
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (A.F.); (L.A.L.)
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | - Lars Allan Larsen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; (A.F.); (L.A.L.)
| | - Roberta Zuntini
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.P.); (R.Z.); (L.G.)
| | - Manuela Napoli
- Neuroradiology Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Livia Garavelli
- Medical Genetics Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy; (M.P.); (R.Z.); (L.G.)
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15
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Türkyılmaz A, Sager SG. Two New Cases of Primary Microcephaly with Neuronal Migration Defect Caused by Truncating Mutations in the ASPM Gene. Mol Syndromol 2022; 13:56-63. [PMID: 35221876 PMCID: PMC8832193 DOI: 10.1159/000516201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a uncommon disorder due to congenital deficiency in the development of the cerebral cortex, characterized by a head circumference below 2 SD. MCPH is a group of diseases with genetic heterogeneity and has been reported by the Online Mendelian Inheritance In Man® (OMIM) database and associated with 25 different genes. It is known that MCPH cases are most frequently associated with abnormal spindle-like, microcephaly-associated (ASPM) gene mutations. The ASPM protein consists of an N-terminal 81 IQ (isoleucine-glutamine) domain, a calponin-homology domain, and a C-terminal domain. It interacts with calmodulin and calmodulin-related proteins via the IQ domain and acts as a part in mitotic spindle function. The basic characteristics of cases with ASPM gene mutations are microcephaly (below -3 SD) present before 1 year of age, intellectual disability, and the absence of other congenital anomalies. Macroscopic organization of the brain is preserved in cases with ASPM mutation, and a decrease in brain volume, particularly gray matter volume loss and a simplified gyral pattern are observed. Cortical migration defects are a very rare finding in patients with ASPM mutations. In the present study, we aimed to discuss the clinical and genetic findings in 2 cases with cortical dysplasia in which truncated variants in the ASPM gene were detected, particularly in terms of genotype-phenotype correlation in comparison with the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayberk Türkyılmaz
- Department of Medical Genetics, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Safiye Gunes Sager
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
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16
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Ding M, Qing X, Zhang G, Baade-Büttner C, Gruber R, Lu H, Ferguson DO, Geis C, Wang ZQ, Zhou ZW. The Essential DNA Damage Response Complex MRN Is Dispensable for the Survival and Function of Purkinje Neurons. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 13:786199. [PMID: 35153719 PMCID: PMC8831373 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.786199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
MRE11, RAD50, and NBS1 form the MRN complex in response to DNA damage to activate ATM, a gene responsible for Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T). Loss of any components of the MRN complex compromises cell life. Mutations in MRE11, RAD50, and NBS1 cause human genomic instability syndromes Ataxia-Telangiectasia-like disorder (A-TLD), NBS-like disorder (NBSLD), and Nijmegen Breakage Syndrome (NBS), respectively. Among other pathologies, neuronal deficits, including microcephaly, intellectual disabilities, and progressive cerebellar degeneration, are common in these disorders. Nbs1 deletion in neural stem cells of mouse models resulted in cerebellar atrophy and ataxia, mimicking the A-T syndrome suggesting an etiological function of MRN-mediated DDR in neuronal homeostasis and neuropathology. Here we show that deletion of Nbs1 or Mre11 specifically in Purkinje neurons of mouse models (Nbs1-PCΔ and Mre11-PCΔ, respectively) is compatible with cerebellar development. Deleting Nbs1 in Purkinje cells disrupts the cellular localization pattern of MRE11 or RAD50 without inducing apparent DNA damage, albeit impaired DNA damage response (judged by 53BP1 focus formation) to ionizing radiation (IR). However, neither survival nor morphology of Purkinje cells and thus locomotor capabilities is affected by Nbs1 deletion under physiological conditions. Similarly, deletion of Mre11 in Purkinje cells does not affect the numbers or morphology of Purkinje cells and causes no accumulation of DNA damage. Mre11-deleted Purkinje cells have regular intrinsic neuronal activity. Taken together, these data indicate that the MRN complex is not essential for the survival and functionality of postmitotic neurons such as Purkinje cells. Thus, cerebellar deficits in MRN defect-related disorders and mouse models are unlikely to be a direct consequence of loss of these factors compromising DDR in postmitotic neurons such as Purkinje cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingmei Ding
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaobing Qing
- Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Guangyu Zhang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Carolin Baade-Büttner
- Section of Translational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Ralph Gruber
- Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Haizhen Lu
- Department of Pathology and Resident Training Base, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - David O. Ferguson
- Department of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Christian Geis
- Section of Translational Neuroimmunology, Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Jena, Germany
- *Correspondence: Zhao-Qi Wang,
| | - Zhong-Wei Zhou
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
- Zhong-Wei Zhou,
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17
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Ossola C, Kalebic N. Roots of the Malformations of Cortical Development in the Cell Biology of Neural Progenitor Cells. Front Neurosci 2022; 15:817218. [PMID: 35069108 PMCID: PMC8766818 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.817218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebral cortex is a structure that underlies various brain functions, including cognition and language. Mammalian cerebral cortex starts developing during the embryonic period with the neural progenitor cells generating neurons. Newborn neurons migrate along progenitors’ radial processes from the site of their origin in the germinal zones to the cortical plate, where they mature and integrate in the forming circuitry. Cell biological features of neural progenitors, such as the location and timing of their mitoses, together with their characteristic morphologies, can directly or indirectly regulate the abundance and the identity of their neuronal progeny. Alterations in the complex and delicate process of cerebral cortex development can lead to malformations of cortical development (MCDs). They include various structural abnormalities that affect the size, thickness and/or folding pattern of the developing cortex. Their clinical manifestations can entail a neurodevelopmental disorder, such as epilepsy, developmental delay, intellectual disability, or autism spectrum disorder. The recent advancements of molecular and neuroimaging techniques, along with the development of appropriate in vitro and in vivo model systems, have enabled the assessment of the genetic and environmental causes of MCDs. Here we broadly review the cell biological characteristics of neural progenitor cells and focus on those features whose perturbations have been linked to MCDs.
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18
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Kristofova M, Ori A, Wang ZQ. Multifaceted Microcephaly-Related Gene MCPH1. Cells 2022; 11:cells11020275. [PMID: 35053391 PMCID: PMC8774270 DOI: 10.3390/cells11020275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MCPH1, or BRIT1, is often mutated in human primary microcephaly type 1, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a smaller brain size at birth, due to its dysfunction in regulating the proliferation and self-renewal of neuroprogenitor cells. In the last 20 years or so, genetic and cellular studies have identified MCPH1 as a multifaceted protein in various cellular functions, including DNA damage signaling and repair, the regulation of chromosome condensation, cell-cycle progression, centrosome activity and the metabolism. Yet, genetic and animal model studies have revealed an unpredicted essential function of MPCH1 in gonad development and tumorigenesis, although the underlying mechanism remains elusive. These studies have begun to shed light on the role of MPCH1 in controlling various pathobiological processes of the disorder. Here, we summarize the biological functions of MCPH1, and lessons learnt from cellular and mouse models of MCPH1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Kristofova
- Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany; (M.K.); (A.O.)
| | - Alessandro Ori
- Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany; (M.K.); (A.O.)
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging—Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745 Jena, Germany; (M.K.); (A.O.)
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller University of Jena, Bachstrasse 18k, 07743 Jena, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-3641-656415; Fax: +49-3641-656335
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19
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Iegiani G, Di Cunto F, Pallavicini G. Inhibiting microcephaly genes as alternative to microtubule targeting agents to treat brain tumors. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:956. [PMID: 34663805 PMCID: PMC8523548 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04259-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) and gliomas are the most frequent high-grade brain tumors (HGBT) in children and adulthood, respectively. The general treatment for these tumors consists in surgery, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite the improvement in patient survival, these therapies are only partially effective, and many patients still die. In the last decades, microtubules have emerged as interesting molecular targets for HGBT, as various microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) have been developed and tested pre-clinically and clinically with encouraging results. Nevertheless, these treatments produce relevant side effects since they target microtubules in normal as well as in cancerous cells. A possible strategy to overcome this toxicity could be to target proteins that control microtubule dynamics but are required by HGBT cells much more than in normal cell types. The genes mutated in primary hereditary microcephaly (MCPH) are ubiquitously expressed in proliferating cells, but under normal conditions are selectively required during brain development, in neural progenitors. There is evidence that MB and glioma cells share molecular profiles with progenitors of cerebellar granules and of cortical radial glia cells, in which MCPH gene functions are fundamental. Moreover, several studies indicate that MCPH genes are required for HGBT expansion. Among the 25 known MCPH genes, we focus this review on KNL1, ASPM, CENPE, CITK and KIF14, which have been found to control microtubule stability during cell division. We summarize the current knowledge about the molecular basis of their interaction with microtubules. Moreover, we will discuss data that suggest these genes are promising candidates as HGBT-specific targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Iegiani
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience 'Rita Levi Montalcini', University of Turin, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Di Cunto
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043, Orbassano, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience 'Rita Levi Montalcini', University of Turin, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Pallavicini
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043, Orbassano, Italy.
- Department of Neuroscience 'Rita Levi Montalcini', University of Turin, 10126, Turin, Italy.
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20
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Siskos N, Stylianopoulou E, Skavdis G, Grigoriou ME. Molecular Genetics of Microcephaly Primary Hereditary: An Overview. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11050581. [PMID: 33946187 PMCID: PMC8145766 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11050581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroCephaly Primary Hereditary (MCPH) is a rare congenital neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a significant reduction of the occipitofrontal head circumference and mild to moderate mental disability. Patients have small brains, though with overall normal architecture; therefore, studying MCPH can reveal not only the pathological mechanisms leading to this condition, but also the mechanisms operating during normal development. MCPH is genetically heterogeneous, with 27 genes listed so far in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. In this review, we discuss the role of MCPH proteins and delineate the molecular mechanisms and common pathways in which they participate.
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21
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Spatiotemporal 7q11.23 protein network analysis implicates the role of DNA repair pathway during human brain development. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8246. [PMID: 33859276 PMCID: PMC8050238 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent deletions and duplications of chromosome 7q11.23 copy number variants (CNVs) are associated with several psychiatric disorders. Although phenotypic abnormalities have been observed in patients, causal genes responsible for CNV-associated diagnoses and traits are still poorly understood. Furthermore, the targeted human brain regions, developmental stages, protein networks, and signaling pathways, influenced by this CNV remain unclear. Previous works showed GTF2I involved in Williams-Beuren syndrome, but pathways affected by GTF2I are indistinct. We first constructed dynamic spatiotemporal networks of 7q11.23 genes by combining data from the brain developmental transcriptome with physical interactions of 7q11.23 proteins. Topological changes were observed in protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks throughout different stages of brain development. Early and late fetal periods of development in the cortex, striatum, hippocampus, and amygdale were observed as the vital periods and regions for 7q11.23 CNV proteins. CNV proteins and their partners are significantly enriched in DNA repair pathway. As a driver gene, GTF2I interacted with PRKDC and BRCA1 to involve in DNA repair pathway. The physical interaction between GTF2I with PRKDC was confirmed experimentally by the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We identified that early and late fetal periods are crucial for 7q11.23 genes to affect brain development. Our results implicate that 7q11.23 CNV genes converge on the DNA repair pathway to contribute to the pathogenesis of psychiatric diseases.
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22
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Iegiani G, Gai M, Di Cunto F, Pallavicini G. CENPE Inhibition Leads to Mitotic Catastrophe and DNA Damage in Medulloblastoma Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051028. [PMID: 33804489 PMCID: PMC7957796 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most frequent brain tumor in children. The standard treatment consists in surgery, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. These therapies are only partially effective, since many patients still die and those who survive suffer from neurological and endocrine disorders. Therefore, more effective therapies are needed. CENPE is a gene critical for normal proliferation and survival of neural progenitors. Since there is evidence that MB cells are very similar to neural progenitors, we hypothesized that CENPE could be an effective target for MB treatment. In MB cell lines, CENPE depletion induced defects in division and resulted in cell death. To consolidate CENPE as a target for MB treatment, we tested GSK923295, a specific inhibitor already in clinical trials for other cancer types. GSK923295 induced effects similar to CENPE depletion at low nM levels, supporting the idea that CENPE’s inhibition could be a viable strategy for MB treatment. Abstract Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most frequent brain tumor in children. The standard treatment consists in surgery, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. These therapies are only partially effective since many patients still die and those who survive suffer from neurological and endocrine disorders. Therefore, more effective therapies are needed. Primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a rare disorder caused by mutations in 25 different genes. Centromere-associated protein E (CENPE) heterozygous mutations cause the MCPH13 syndrome. As for other MCPH genes, CENPE is required for normal proliferation and survival of neural progenitors. Since there is evidence that MB shares many molecular features with neural progenitors, we hypothesized that CENPE could be an effective target for MB treatment. In ONS-76 and DAOY cells, CENPE knockdown induced mitotic defects and apoptosis. Moreover, CENPE depletion induced endogenous DNA damage accumulation, activating TP53 or TP73 as well as cell death signaling pathways. To consolidate CENPE as a target for MB treatment, we tested GSK923295, an allosteric inhibitor already in clinical trial for other cancer types. GSK923295, induced effects similar to CENPE depletion with higher penetrance, at low nM levels, suggesting that CENPE’s inhibition could be a therapeutic strategy for MB treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Iegiani
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Marta Gai
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Di Cunto
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.D.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Gianmarco Pallavicini
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10043 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Neuroscience ‘Rita Levi Montalcini’, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.D.C.); (G.P.)
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23
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Liu X, Schneble-Löhnert N, Kristofova M, Qing X, Labisch J, Hofmann S, Ehrenberg S, Sannai M, Jörß T, Ori A, Godmann M, Wang ZQ. The N-terminal BRCT domain determines MCPH1 function in brain development and fertility. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:143. [PMID: 33542216 PMCID: PMC7862653 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03406-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
MCPH1 is a causal gene for the neurodevelopmental disorder, human primary microcephaly (MCPH1, OMIM251200). Most pathogenic mutations are located in the N-terminal region of the gene, which encodes a BRCT domain, suggesting an important function of this domain in brain size determination. To investigate the specific function of the N-terminal BRCT domain in vivo, we generated a mouse model lacking the N’-BRCT domain of MCPH1 (referred as Mcph1-ΔBR1). These mutant mice are viable, but exhibit reduced brain size, with a thinner cortex due to a reduction of neuroprogenitor populations and premature neurogenic differentiation. Mcph1-ΔBR1 mice (both male and female) are infertile; however, almost all female mutants develop ovary tumours. Mcph1-ΔBR1 MEF cells exhibit a defect in DNA damage response and DNA repair, and show the premature chromosome condensation (PCC) phenotype, a hallmark of MCPH1 patient cells and also Mcph1 knockout cells. In comparison with Mcph1 complete knockout mice, Mcph1-ΔBR1 mice faithfully reproduce all phenotypes, indicating an essential role of the N-terminal BRCT domain for the physiological function of MCPH1 in the control of brain size and gonad development as well as in multiple cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Liu
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Nadine Schneble-Löhnert
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Martina Kristofova
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Xiaobing Qing
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Jan Labisch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Hans-Knöll-Str. 2, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Susanne Hofmann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Hans-Knöll-Str. 2, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Sandra Ehrenberg
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Hans-Knöll-Str. 2, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Mara Sannai
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Tjard Jörß
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Alessandro Ori
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Maren Godmann
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Department of Biochemistry, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Hans-Knöll-Str. 2, 07745, Jena, Germany
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany. .,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller University of Jena, Beutenbergstrasse 11, 07745, Jena, Germany.
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24
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Cicconi A, Rai R, Xiong X, Broton C, Al-Hiyasat A, Hu C, Dong S, Sun W, Garbarino J, Bindra RS, Schildkraut C, Chen Y, Chang S. Microcephalin 1/BRIT1-TRF2 interaction promotes telomere replication and repair, linking telomere dysfunction to primary microcephaly. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5861. [PMID: 33203878 PMCID: PMC7672075 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19674-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres protect chromosome ends from inappropriately activating the DNA damage and repair responses. Primary microcephaly is a key clinical feature of several human telomere disorder syndromes, but how microcephaly is linked to dysfunctional telomeres is not known. Here, we show that the microcephalin 1/BRCT-repeats inhibitor of hTERT (MCPH1/BRIT1) protein, mutated in primary microcephaly, specifically interacts with the TRFH domain of the telomere binding protein TRF2. The crystal structure of the MCPH1-TRF2 complex reveals that this interaction is mediated by the MCPH1 330YRLSP334 motif. TRF2-dependent recruitment of MCPH1 promotes localization of DNA damage factors and homology directed repair of dysfunctional telomeres lacking POT1-TPP1. Additionally, MCPH1 is involved in the replication stress response, promoting telomere replication fork progression and restart of stalled telomere replication forks. Our work uncovers a previously unrecognized role for MCPH1 in promoting telomere replication, providing evidence that telomere replication defects may contribute to the onset of microcephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cicconi
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
| | - Rekha Rai
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
| | - Xuexue Xiong
- grid.507739.fState Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Cayla Broton
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.5386.8000000041936877XTri- Institutional MD/PhD Program, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065 USA
| | - Amer Al-Hiyasat
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
| | - Chunyi Hu
- grid.507739.fState Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Siying Dong
- grid.507739.fState Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Wenqi Sun
- grid.507739.fState Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Jennifer Garbarino
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
| | - Ranjit S. Bindra
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Experimental Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
| | - Carl Schildkraut
- grid.251993.50000000121791997Department of Cell Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461 USA
| | - Yong Chen
- grid.507739.fState Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031 China
| | - Sandy Chang
- grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA ,grid.47100.320000000419368710Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, 330 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06520 USA
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25
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Chang HY, Lee CY, Lu CH, Lee W, Yang HL, Yeh HY, Li HW, Chi P. Microcephaly family protein MCPH1 stabilizes RAD51 filaments. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:9135-9146. [PMID: 32735676 PMCID: PMC7498314 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcephalin 1 (MCPH1) was identified from genetic mutations in patients with primary autosomal recessive microcephaly. In response to DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), MCPH1 forms damage-induced foci and recruits BRCA2-RAD51 complex, a key component of the DSB repair machinery for homologous recombination (HR), to damage sites. Accordingly, the efficiency of HR is significantly attenuated upon depletion of MCPH1. The biochemical characteristics of MCPH1 and its functional interaction with the HR machinery had remained unclear due to lack of highly purified MCPH1 recombinant protein for functional study. Here, we established a mammalian expression system to express and purify MCPH1 protein. We show that MCPH1 is a bona fide DNA-binding protein and provide direct biochemical analysis of this MCPH family protein. Furthermore, we reveal that MCPH1 directly interacts with RAD51 at multiple contact points, providing evidence for how MCPH1 physically engages with the HR machinery. Importantly, we demonstrate that MCPH1 enhances the stability of RAD51 on single-strand DNA, a prerequisite step for RAD51-mediated recombination. Single-molecule tethered particle motion analysis showed a ∼2-fold increase in the lifetime of RAD51-ssDNA filaments in the presence of MCPH1. Thus, our study demonstrates direct crosstalk between microcephaly protein MCPH1 and the recombination component RAD51 for DSB repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Yen Chang
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yi Lee
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hao Lu
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Wei Lee
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Han-Lin Yang
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Yeh
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Wen Li
- Department of Chemistry, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Peter Chi
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, 128 Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
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26
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Cheng D, Yuan S, Hu L, Yi D, Luo K, Gong F, Lu C, Lu G, Lin G, Tan YQ. The genetic cause of intellectual deficiency and/or congenital malformations in two parental reciprocal translocation carriers and implications for assisted reproduction. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:243-250. [PMID: 33094427 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01986-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the genetic cause of intellectual deficiency and/or congenital malformations in two parental reciprocal translocation carriers and provide appropriate strategies of assisted reproductive therapy (ART). MATERIALS AND METHODS Two similar couples having a child with global developmental delay/intellectual disability symptoms attended the Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya (Changsha, China) in 2017 and 2019, respectively, in order to determine the cause(s) of the conditions affecting their child and to seek ART to have a healthy baby. Both of the healthy couples were not of consanguineous marriage, denied exposure to toxicants, and had no adverse life history. This study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of the Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, and written informed consent was obtained from the parents. Genetic diagnoses were performed by karyotype analysis, breakpoint mapping analysis of chromosomal translocation(s), single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarray analysis, and whole-exome sequencing (WES) for the two children and different appropriate reproductive strategies were performed in the two families. RESULTS Karyotype analysis revealed that both patients carried parental reciprocal translocations [46,XY,t(7;16)(p13;q24)pat and 46,XY,t(13;17)(q12.3;p11.2)pat, respectively]. Follow-up breakpoint mapping analysis showed no interruption of associated genes, and SNP microarray analysis identified no significant copy number variations (CNVs) in the two patients. Moreover, WES results revealed that patients 1 and 2 harbored candidate compound heterozygous mutations of MCOLN1 [c.195G>C (p.K65N) and c.1061G>A (p.W354*)] and MCPH1 [c.877A>G (p.S293G) and c.1869_1870delAT (p.C624*)], respectively, that were inherited from their parents and not previously reported. Furthermore, the parents of patient 1 obtained 10 embryos during ART cycle, and an embryo of normal karyotype and non-carrier of observed MCOLN1 mutations according to preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangement and monogenic defect was successfully transferred, resulting in the birth of a healthy boy. The parents of patient 2 chose to undergo ART with donor sperm to reduce the risk of recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Systematic genetic diagnosis of two carriers of inherited chromosomal translocations accompanied by clinical phenotypes revealed their cause of disease, which was critical for genetic counseling and further ART for these families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehua Cheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shimin Yuan
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Hu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Duo Yi
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Keli Luo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Gong
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Changfu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yue-Qiu Tan
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
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27
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Pavone P, Pappalardo XG, Praticò AD, Polizzi A, Ruggieri M, Piccione M, Corsello G, Falsaperla R. Primary Microcephaly with Novel Variant of MCPH1 Gene in Twins: Both Manifesting in Childhood at the Same Time with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. J Pediatr Genet 2020; 9:177-182. [PMID: 32714618 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1710046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study is a clinical report on twin females affected by primary microcephaly who displayed at molecular analysis of heterozygous novel MCPH1 variant. The twins at the age of 10 years developed, in coincidental time, a diagnosis of autoimmune juvenile thyroiditis. The main clinical features presented by the twins consisted of primary microcephaly with occipitofrontal circumference measuring -2 or -3 standard deviation, facial dysmorphism, typical nonsyndromic microcephaly, and mild intellectual disability. Molecular analysis of the major genes involved in primary microcephaly was performed and the following result was found in the twins: MCPH1 ; chr8.6357416; c.2180 C > T (rs 199861426), p.Pro727. Leu; heterozygous; missense; variant of uncertain significance (class 3). At the age of 10 years, the twins started to have, in coincidental time, marked asthenia and episodes of emotiveness, and laboratory exams disclosed a high level of antithyroid peroxidase leading to the diagnosis of autoimmune juvenile thyroiditis with normal thyroid function. The novel heterozygous MCPH1 variant found in the twins may be directly or indirectly involved in the onset of the primary microcephaly. The thyroid disorder in the twins and its onset, in a coincidental time, confirmed the effect of genetic predisposition on the pathogenesis of the immune thyroiditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Pavone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pediatric Clinic, University Hospital, A.U.O. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele," Catania, Italy
| | - Xena Giada Pappalardo
- National Council of Research, Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation (IRIB), Unit of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Domenico Praticò
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pediatric Clinic, University Hospital, A.U.O. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele," Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Polizzi
- Department of Educational Sciences, Chair of Pediatrics, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Martino Ruggieri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pediatric Clinic, University Hospital, A.U.O. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele," Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Piccione
- Operative Unit of Pediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Therapy, Department of Mother and Child, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corsello
- Operative Unit of Pediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Therapy, Department of Mother and Child, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Raffaele Falsaperla
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency, University Hospital, A.U.O. "Policlinico Vittorio Emanuele," Catania, Italy
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28
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Karuppan MKM, Ojha CR, Rodriguez M, Lapierre J, Aman MJ, Kashanchi F, Toborek M, Nair M, El-Hage N. Reduced-Beclin1-Expressing Mice Infected with Zika-R103451 and Viral-Associated Pathology during Pregnancy. Viruses 2020; 12:v12060608. [PMID: 32498399 PMCID: PMC7354588 DOI: 10.3390/v12060608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we used a mouse model with defective autophagy to further decipher the role of Beclin1 in the infection and disease of Zika virus (ZIKV)-R103451. Hemizygous (Becn1+/−) and wild-type (Becn1+/+) pregnant mice were transiently immunocompromised using the anti-interferon alpha/beta receptor subunit 1 monoclonal antibody MAR1-5A3. Despite a low mortality rate among the infected dams, 25% of Becn1+/− offspring were smaller in size and had smaller, underdeveloped brains. This phenotype became apparent after 2-to 3-weeks post-birth. Furthermore, the smaller-sized pups showed a decrease in the mRNA expression levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and the expression levels of several microcephaly associated genes, when compared to their typical-sized siblings. Neuronal loss was also noticeable in brain tissues that were removed postmortem. Further analysis with murine mixed glia, derived from ZIKV-infected Becn1+/− and Becn1+/+ pups, showed greater infectivity in glia derived from the Becn1+/− genotype, along with a significant increase in pro-inflammatory molecules. In the present study, we identified a link by which defective autophagy is causally related to increased inflammatory molecules, reduced growth factor, decreased expression of microcephaly-associated genes, and increased neuronal loss. Specifically, we showed that a reduced expression of Beclin1 aggravated the consequences of ZIKV infection on brain development and qualifies Becn1 as a susceptibility gene of ZIKV congenital syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohan Kumar Muthu Karuppan
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Chet Raj Ojha
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Myosotys Rodriguez
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Jessica Lapierre
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
| | - M. Javad Aman
- Integrated Biotherapeutics, Rockville, MD 20850, USA;
| | - Fatah Kashanchi
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 20110, USA;
| | - Michal Toborek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Madhavan Nair
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
| | - Nazira El-Hage
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (M.K.M.K.); (C.R.O.); (M.R.); (J.L.); (M.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(305)-348-4346; Fax: +1-(305)-348-1109
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Gabriel E, Ramani A, Altinisik N, Gopalakrishnan J. Human Brain Organoids to Decode Mechanisms of Microcephaly. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:115. [PMID: 32457578 PMCID: PMC7225330 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain organoids are stem cell-based self-assembling 3D structures that recapitulate early events of human brain development. Recent improvements with patient-specific 3D brain organoids have begun to elucidate unprecedented details of the defective mechanisms that cause neurodevelopmental disorders of congenital and acquired microcephaly. In particular, brain organoids derived from primary microcephaly patients have uncovered mechanisms that deregulate neural stem cell proliferation, maintenance, and differentiation. Not only did brain organoids reveal unknown aspects of neurogenesis but also have illuminated surprising roles of cellular structures of centrosomes and primary cilia in regulating neurogenesis during brain development. Here, we discuss how brain organoids have started contributing to decoding the complexities of microcephaly, which are unlikely to be identified in the existing non-human models. Finally, we discuss the yet unresolved questions and challenges that can be addressed with the use of brain organoids as in vitro models of neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Gabriel
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anand Ramani
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nazlican Altinisik
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jay Gopalakrishnan
- Laboratory for Centrosome and Cytoskeleton Biology, Institute für Humangenetik, Universitätsklinikum Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Zhou X, Zhi Y, Yu J, Xu D. The Yin and Yang of Autosomal Recessive Primary Microcephaly Genes: Insights from Neurogenesis and Carcinogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051691. [PMID: 32121580 PMCID: PMC7084222 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The stem cells of neurogenesis and carcinogenesis share many properties, including proliferative rate, an extensive replicative potential, the potential to generate different cell types of a given tissue, and an ability to independently migrate to a damaged area. This is also evidenced by the common molecular principles regulating key processes associated with cell division and apoptosis. Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a neurogenic mitotic disorder that is characterized by decreased brain size and mental retardation. Until now, a total of 25 genes have been identified that are known to be associated with MCPH. The inactivation (yin) of most MCPH genes leads to neurogenesis defects, while the upregulation (yang) of some MCPH genes is associated with different kinds of carcinogenesis. Here, we try to summarize the roles of MCPH genes in these two diseases and explore the underlying mechanisms, which will help us to explore new, attractive approaches to targeting tumor cells that are resistant to the current therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaokun Zhou
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Institute of Life Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Yiqiang Zhi
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Institute of Life Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Jurui Yu
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Institute of Life Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Dan Xu
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Institute of Life Sciences, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.Y.)
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Institute of Neuroscience, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-17085937559
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CITK Loss Inhibits Growth of Group 3 and Group 4 Medulloblastoma Cells and Sensitizes Them to DNA-Damaging Agents. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030542. [PMID: 32111106 PMCID: PMC7139701 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor in children, and it is classified into four biological subgroups: WNT, Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), Group 3 and Group 4. The current treatment is surgery, followed by irradiation and chemotherapy. Unfortunately, these therapies are only partially effective. Citron kinase protein (CITK) has been proposed as a promising target for SHH MB, whose inactivation leads to DNA damage and apoptosis. D283 and D341 cell lines (Group 3/Group 4 MB) were silenced with established siRNA sequences against CITK, to assess the direct effects of its loss. Next, D283, D341, ONS-76 and DAOY cells were treated with ionizing radiation (IR) or cisplatin in combination with CITK knockdown. CITK depletion impaired proliferation and induced cytokinesis failure and apoptosis of G3/G4 MB cell lines. Furthermore, CITK knockdown produced an accumulation of DNA damage, with reduced RAD51 nuclear levels. Association of IR or cisplatin with CITK depletion strongly impaired the growth potential of all tested MB cells. These results indicate that CITK inactivation could prevent the expansion of G3/G4 MB and increase their sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents, by impairing homologous recombination. We suggest that CITK inhibition could be broadly associated with IR and adjuvant therapy in MB treatment.
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Craenen K, Verslegers M, Craeghs L, Quintens R, Janssen A, Coolkens A, Baatout S, Moons L, Benotmane MA. Abnormal retinal pigment epithelium melanogenesis as a major determinant for radiation-induced congenital eye defects. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 91:59-73. [PMID: 31705956 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies highlighted a link between ionizing radiation exposure during neurulation and birth defects such as microphthalmos and anophthalmos. Because the mechanisms underlying these defects remain largely unexplored, we irradiated pregnant C57BL/6J mice (1.0 Gy, X-rays) at embryonic day (E)7.5, followed by histological and gene/protein expression analyses at defined days. Irradiation impaired embryonic development at E9 and we observed a delayed pigmentation of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) at E11. In addition, a reduced RNA expression and protein abundance of critical eye-development genes (e.g. Pax6 and Lhx2) was observed. Furthermore, a decreased expression of Mitf, Tyr and Tyrp1 supported the radiation-induced perturbation in RPE pigmentation. Finally, via immunostainings for proliferation (Ki67) and mitosis (phosphorylated histone 3), a decreased mitotic index was observed in the E18 retina after exposure at E7.5. Overall, we propose a plausible etiological model for radiation-induced eye-size defects, with RPE melanogenesis as a major determining factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Craenen
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium; Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology section, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 61 bus 2464, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Mieke Verslegers
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Livine Craeghs
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium; Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology section, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 61 bus 2464, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Roel Quintens
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Ann Janssen
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Amelie Coolkens
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Lieve Moons
- Laboratory of Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, Animal Physiology and Neurobiology section, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 61 bus 2464, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Mohammed Abderrafi Benotmane
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK-CEN, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium.
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Pinson A, Namba T, Huttner WB. Malformations of Human Neocortex in Development - Their Progenitor Cell Basis and Experimental Model Systems. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:305. [PMID: 31338027 PMCID: PMC6629864 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Malformations of the human neocortex in development constitute a heterogeneous group of complex disorders, resulting in pathologies such as intellectual disability and abnormal neurological/psychiatric conditions such as epilepsy or autism. Advances in genomic sequencing and genetic techniques have allowed major breakthroughs in the field, revealing the molecular basis of several of these malformations. Here, we focus on those malformations of the human neocortex, notably microcephaly, and macrocephaly, where an underlying basis has been established at the level of the neural stem/progenitor cells (NPCs) from which neurons are directly or indirectly derived. Particular emphasis is placed on NPC cell biology and NPC markers. A second focus of this review is on experimental model systems used to dissect the underlying mechanisms of malformations of the human neocortex in development at the cellular and molecular level. The most commonly used model system have been genetically modified mice. However, although basic features of neocortical development are conserved across the various mammalian species, some important differences between mouse and human exist. These pertain to the abundance of specific NPC types and/or their proliferative capacity, as exemplified in the case of basal radial glia. These differences limit the ability of mouse models to fully recapitulate the phenotypes of malformations of the human neocortex. For this reason, additional experimental model systems, notably the ferret, non-human primates and cerebral organoids, have recently emerged as alternatives and shown to be of increasing relevance. It is therefore important to consider the benefits and limitations of each of these model systems for studying malformations of the human neocortex in development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Takashi Namba
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
| | - Wieland B. Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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Kandilya D, Maskomani S, Shyamasundar S, Tambyah PA, Shiao Yng C, Lee RCH, Hande MP, Mallilankaraman K, Chu JJH, Dheen ST. Zika virus alters DNA methylation status of genes involved in Hippo signaling pathway in human neural progenitor cells. Epigenomics 2019; 11:1143-1161. [PMID: 31234652 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2018-0180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study was aimed to understand if Zika virus (ZIKV) alters the DNA methylome of human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs). Materials & methods: Whole genome DNA methylation profiling was performed using human methylationEPIC array in control and ZIKV infected hNPCs. Results & conclusion: ZIKV infection altered the DNA methylation of several genes such as WWTR1 (TAZ) and RASSF1 of Hippo signaling pathway which regulates organ size during brain development, and decreased the expression of several centrosomal-related microcephaly genes, and genes involved in stemness and differentiation in human neural progenitor cells. Overall, ZIKV downregulated the Hippo signaling pathway genes which perturb the stemness and differentiation process in hNPCs, which could form the basis for ZIKV-induced microcephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Kandilya
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Silambarasan Maskomani
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Sukanya Shyamasundar
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Paul Anantharajah Tambyah
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Chan Shiao Yng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Regina Ching Hua Lee
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Manoor Prakash Hande
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Karthik Mallilankaraman
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - Justin Jang Hann Chu
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
| | - S Thameem Dheen
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597
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Pallavicini G, Berto GE, Di Cunto F. Precision Revisited: Targeting Microcephaly Kinases in Brain Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092098. [PMID: 31035417 PMCID: PMC6539168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme and medulloblastoma are the most frequent high-grade brain tumors in adults and children, respectively. Standard therapies for these cancers are mainly based on surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. However, intrinsic or acquired resistance to treatment occurs almost invariably in the first case, and side effects are unacceptable in the second. Therefore, the development of new, effective drugs is a very important unmet medical need. A critical requirement for developing such agents is to identify druggable targets required for the proliferation or survival of tumor cells, but not of other cell types. Under this perspective, genes mutated in congenital microcephaly represent interesting candidates. Congenital microcephaly comprises a heterogeneous group of disorders in which brain volume is reduced, in the absence or presence of variable syndromic features. Genetic studies have clarified that most microcephaly genes encode ubiquitous proteins involved in mitosis and in maintenance of genomic stability, but the effects of their inactivation are particularly strong in neural progenitors. It is therefore conceivable that the inhibition of the function of these genes may specifically affect the proliferation and survival of brain tumor cells. Microcephaly genes encode for a few kinases, including CITK, PLK4, AKT3, DYRK1A, and TRIO. In this review, we summarize the evidence indicating that the inhibition of these molecules could exert beneficial effects on different aspects of brain cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianmarco Pallavicini
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
| | - Gaia E Berto
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
| | - Ferdinando Di Cunto
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy.
- Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), 10126 Turin, Italy.
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Arroyo M, Kuriyama R, Guerrero I, Keifenheim D, Cañuelo A, Calahorra J, Sánchez A, Clarke DJ, Marchal JA. MCPH1 is essential for cellular adaptation to the G 2-phase decatenation checkpoint. FASEB J 2019; 33:8363-8374. [PMID: 30964711 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802009rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Cellular checkpoints controlling entry into mitosis monitor the integrity of the DNA and delay mitosis onset until the alteration is fully repaired. However, this canonical response can weaken, leading to a spontaneous bypass of the checkpoint, a process referred to as checkpoint adaptation. Here, we have investigated the contribution of microcephalin 1 (MCPH1), mutated in primary microcephaly, to the decatenation checkpoint, a less-understood G2 pathway that delays entry into mitosis until chromosomes are properly disentangled. Our results demonstrate that, although MCPH1 function is dispensable for activation and maintenance of the decatenation checkpoint, it is required for the adaptive response that bypasses the topoisomerase II inhibition----mediated G2 arrest. MCPH1, however, does not confer adaptation to the G2 arrest triggered by the ataxia telangiectasia mutated- and ataxia telangiectasia and rad3 related-based DNA damage checkpoint. In addition to revealing a new role for MCPH1 in cell cycle control, our study provides new insights into the genetic requirements that allow cellular adaptation to G2 checkpoints, a process that remains poorly understood.-Arroyo, M., Kuriyama, R., Guerrero, I., Keifenheim, D., Cañuelo, A., Calahorra, J., Sánchez, A., Clarke, D. J., Marchal, J. A. MCPH1 is essential for cellular adaptation to the G2-phase decatenation checkpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Arroyo
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Ryoko Kuriyama
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Israel Guerrero
- Instituto de Investigación y Formación Agraria y Pesquera (IFAPA Centro El Toruño), El Puerto de Santa María, Spain
| | - Daniel Keifenheim
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ana Cañuelo
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Jesús Calahorra
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Antonio Sánchez
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Duncan J Clarke
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development, University of Minnesota-Minneapolis, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - J Alberto Marchal
- Departamento de Biología Experimental, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
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Gharbaran R, Somenarain L. Putative Cellular and Molecular Roles of Zika Virus in Fetal and Pediatric Neuropathologies. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2019; 22:5-21. [PMID: 30149771 DOI: 10.1177/1093526618790742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although the World Health Organization declared an end to the recent Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak and its association with adverse fetal and pediatric outcome, on November 18, 2016, the virus still remains a severe public health threat. Laboratory experiments thus far supported the suspicions that ZIKV is a teratogenic agent. Evidence indicated that ZIKV infection cripples the host cells' innate immune responses, allowing productive replication and potential dissemination of the virus. In addition, studies suggest potential transplacental passage of the virus and subsequent selective targeting of neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Depletion of NPCs by ZIKV is associated with restricted brain growth. And while microcephaly can result from infection at any gestational stages, the risk is greater during the first trimester. Although a number of recent studies revealed some of specific molecular and cellular roles of ZIKV proteins of this mosquito-borne flavivirus, the mechanisms by which it produces it suspected pathophysiological effects are not completely understood. Thus, this review highlights the cellular and molecular evidence that implicate ZIKV in fetal and pediatric neuropathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajendra Gharbaran
- 1 Department of Biological Sciences, Bronx Community College, The City University of New York, Bronx, New York
| | - Latchman Somenarain
- 1 Department of Biological Sciences, Bronx Community College, The City University of New York, Bronx, New York
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38
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Liu L, Sun L, Zheng J, Wang Y. Silencing BRIT1 Facilitates the Abilities of Invasiveness and Migration in Trophoblast Cells. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:7451-7458. [PMID: 30337515 PMCID: PMC6284355 DOI: 10.12659/msm.910229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The improper invasion of trophoblast cells (TC) can cause various diseases. BRCT-repeat inhibitor of hTERT expression (BRIT1) is involved in the invasion of tumors. Here, we analyzed the effects of BRIT1 on the invasion of TC. Material/Methods The expression of BRIT1 in JEG-3, B6Tert, and HTR8/SVneo cells was evaluated by transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting. The viability, invasion, and migration of HTR8/SVneo cells were measured using cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays. The activities of pro-matrix metalloproteinase-2 (pro-MMP-2) and pro-MMP-9 were tested by gelatin zymography assay. The levels of invasion- and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related factors were assessed by RT-qPCR and Western blotting. Results Levels of BRIT1 in HTR8/SVneo cells were higher than that of JEG-3 and B6Tert cells. The transfection efficiency of BRIT1 siRNA-2 was better than BRIT1 siRNA-1 in HTR8/SVneo cells. BRIT1 siRNA-2 did not change cell viability, whereas it promoted cell invasion and migration. BRIT1 siRNA-2 enhanced the activities of pro-MMP-2 and pro-MMP-9, as well MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels, and reduced tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2 expression. Moreover, BRIT1 siRNA-2 significantly increased the levels of Wnt2, Wnt3, and β-catenin. Conclusions BRIT1 silencing accelerated the invasion and migration of TC and activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Our results may provide new insights for finding new molecular targets to cure disease caused by insufficient invasion of TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Jing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Yanchun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yantai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
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Comprehensive review on the molecular genetics of autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH). Genet Res (Camb) 2018; 100:e7. [PMID: 30086807 DOI: 10.1017/s0016672318000046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary microcephaly (MCPH) is an autosomal recessive sporadic neurodevelopmental ailment with a trivial head size characteristic that is below 3-4 standard deviations. MCPH is the smaller upshot of an architecturally normal brain; a significant decrease in size is seen in the cerebral cortex. At birth MCPH presents with non-progressive mental retardation, while secondary microcephaly (onset after birth) presents with and without other syndromic features. MCPH is a neurogenic mitotic syndrome nevertheless pretentious patients demonstrate normal neuronal migration, neuronal apoptosis and neural function. Eighteen MCPH loci (MCPH1-MCPH18) have been mapped to date from various populations around the world and contain the following genes: Microcephalin, WDR62, CDK5RAP2, CASC5, ASPM, CENPJ, STIL, CEP135, CEP152, ZNF335, PHC1, CDK6, CENPE, SASS6, MFSD2A, ANKLE2, CIT and WDFY3, clarifying our understanding about the molecular basis of microcephaly genetic disorder. It has previously been reported that phenotype disease is caused by MCB gene mutations and the causes of this phenotype are disarrangement of positions and organization of chromosomes during the cell cycle as a result of mutated DNA, centriole duplication, neurogenesis, neuronal migration, microtubule dynamics, transcriptional control and the cell cycle checkpoint having some invisible centrosomal process that can manage the number of neurons that are produced by neuronal precursor cells. Furthermore, researchers inform us about the clinical management of families that are suffering from MCPH. Establishment of both molecular understanding and genetic advocating may help to decrease the rate of this ailment. This current review study examines newly identified genes along with previously identified genes involved in autosomal recessive MCPH.
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40
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Liu X, Zong W, Li T, Wang Y, Xu X, Zhou ZW, Wang ZQ. The E3 ubiquitin ligase APC/C Cdh1 degrades MCPH1 after MCPH1-βTrCP2-Cdc25A-mediated mitotic entry to ensure neurogenesis. EMBO J 2017; 36:3666-3681. [PMID: 29150431 DOI: 10.15252/embj.201694443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of microcephalin (MCPH1) can cause the neurodevelopmental disorder primary microcephaly type 1. We previously showed that MCPH1 deletion in neural stem cells results in early mitotic entry that distracts cell division mode, leading to exhaustion of the progenitor pool. Here, we show that MCPH1 interacts with and promotes the E3 ligase βTrCP2 to degrade Cdc25A independent of DNA damage. Overexpression of βTrCP2 or the knockdown of Cdc25A remedies the high mitotic index and rescues the premature differentiation of Mcph1-deficient neuroprogenitors in vivo MCPH1 itself is degraded by APC/CCdh1, but not APC/CCdc20, in late mitosis and G1 phase. Forced MCPH1 expression causes cell death, underlining the importance of MCPH1 turnover after mitosis. Ectopic expression of Cdh1 leads to premature differentiation of neuroprogenitors, mimicking differentiation defects of Mcph1-knockout neuroprogenitors. The homeostasis of MCPH1 in association with the ubiquitin-proteasome system ensures mitotic entry independent of cell cycle checkpoint. This study provides a mechanistic understanding of how MCPH1 controls neural stem cell fate and brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Liu
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Wen Zong
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Tangliang Li
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany.,Institute of Aging Research, School of Medicine, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yujun Wang
- Division of Biology, City of Hope National Medical Center/Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Xingzhi Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response, College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhong-Wei Zhou
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany .,Faculty of Biology and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Schiller University of Jena, Jena, Germany
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Integrating genome-wide association study and expression quantitative trait loci data identifies multiple genes and gene set associated with neuroticism. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 78:149-152. [PMID: 28552732 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2016] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Neuroticism is a fundamental personality trait with significant genetic determinant. To identify novel susceptibility genes for neuroticism, we conducted an integrative analysis of genomic and transcriptomic data of genome wide association study (GWAS) and expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) study. GWAS summary data was driven from published studies of neuroticism, totally involving 170,906 subjects. eQTL dataset containing 927,753 eQTLs were obtained from an eQTL meta-analysis of 5311 samples. Integrative analysis of GWAS and eQTL data was conducted by summary data-based Mendelian randomization (SMR) analysis software. To identify neuroticism associated gene sets, the SMR analysis results were further subjected to gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The gene set annotation dataset (containing 13,311 annotated gene sets) of GSEA Molecular Signatures Database was used. SMR single gene analysis identified 6 significant genes for neuroticism, including MSRA (p value=2.27×10-10), MGC57346 (p value=6.92×10-7), BLK (p value=1.01×10-6), XKR6 (p value=1.11×10-6), C17ORF69 (p value=1.12×10-6) and KIAA1267 (p value=4.00×10-6). Gene set enrichment analysis observed significant association for Chr8p23 gene set (false discovery rate=0.033). Our results provide novel clues for the genetic mechanism studies of neuroticism.
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42
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Abstract
DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) serve as obligatory intermediates for Ig heavy chain (Igh) class switch recombination (CSR). The mechanisms by which DSBs are resolved to promote long-range DNA end-joining while suppressing genomic instability inherently associated with DSBs are yet to be fully elucidated. Here, we use a targeted short-hairpin RNA screen in a B-cell lymphoma line to identify the BRCT-domain protein BRIT1 as an effector of CSR. We show that conditional genetic deletion of BRIT1 in mice leads to a marked increase in unrepaired Igh breaks and a significant reduction in CSR in ex vivo activated splenic B cells. We find that the C-terminal tandem BRCT domains of BRIT1 facilitate its interaction with phosphorylated H2AX and that BRIT1 is recruited to the Igh locus in an activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) and H2AX-dependent fashion. Finally, we demonstrate that depletion of another BRCT-domain protein, MDC1, in BRIT1-deleted B cells increases the severity of CSR defect over what is observed upon loss of either protein alone. Our results identify BRIT1 as a factor in CSR and demonstrate that multiple BRCT-domain proteins contribute to optimal resolution of AID-induced DSBs.
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43
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Chen HR, Juan HC, Wong YH, Tsai JW, Fann MJ. Cdk12 Regulates Neurogenesis and Late-Arising Neuronal Migration in the Developing Cerebral Cortex. Cereb Cortex 2017; 27:2289-2302. [PMID: 27073218 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA damage response (DDR) pathways are critical for ensuring that replication stress and various types of DNA lesion do not perturb production of neural cells during development. Cdk12 maintains genomic stability by regulating expression of DDR genes. Mutant mice in which Cdk12 is conditionally deleted in neural progenitor cells (NPCs) die after birth and exhibit microcephaly with a thinner cortical plate and an aberrant corpus callosum. We show that NPCs of mutant mice accumulate at G2 and M phase, and have lower expression of DDR genes, more DNA double-strand breaks and increased apoptosis. In addition to there being fewer neurons, there is misalignment of layers IV-II neurons and the presence of abnormal axonal tracts of these neurons, suggesting that Cdk12 is also required for the migration of late-arising cortical neurons. Using in utero electroporation, we demonstrate that the migrating mutant cells remain within the intermediate zone and fail to adopt a bipolar morphology. Overexpression of Cdk5 brings about a partially restoration of the neurons reaching layers IV-II in the mutant mice. Thus, Cdk12 is crucial to the repair of DNA damage during the proliferation of NPCs and is also central to the proper migration of late-arising neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ru Chen
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences.,Brain Research Center
| | - Hsien-Chia Juan
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences
| | | | - Jin-Wu Tsai
- Brain Research Center.,Institute of Brain Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan 11221, Republic of China
| | - Ming-Ji Fann
- Department of Life Sciences and Institute of Genome Sciences.,Brain Research Center
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44
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Regulation of spindle integrity and mitotic fidelity by BCCIP. Oncogene 2017; 36:4750-4766. [PMID: 28394342 PMCID: PMC5561484 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2017.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Centrosomes together with the mitotic spindle ensure the faithful distribution of chromosomes between daughter cells, and spindle orientation is a major determinant of cell fate during tissue regeneration. Spindle defects are not only an impetus of chromosome instability but are also a cause of developmental disorders involving defective asymmetric cell division. In this work, we demonstrate BCCIP, especially BCCIPα, as a previously unidentified component of the mitotic spindle pole and the centrosome. We demonstrate that BCCIP localizes proximal to the mother centriole and participates in microtubule organization and then redistributes to the spindle pole to ensure faithful spindle architecture. We find that BCCIP depletion leads to morphological defects, disoriented mitotic spindles, chromosome congression defects and delayed mitotic progression. Our study identifies BCCIP as a novel factor critical for microtubule regulation and explicates a mechanism utilized by BCCIP in tumor suppression.
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45
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Dambroise E, Simion M, Bourquard T, Bouffard S, Rizzi B, Jaszczyszyn Y, Bourge M, Affaticati P, Heuzé A, Jouralet J, Edouard J, Brown S, Thermes C, Poupon A, Reiter E, Sohm F, Bourrat F, Joly JS. Postembryonic Fish Brain Proliferation Zones Exhibit Neuroepithelial-Type Gene Expression Profile. Stem Cells 2017; 35:1505-1518. [PMID: 28181357 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, neuroepithelial cells play an essential role in embryonic neurogenesis, whereas glial stem cells are the principal source of neurons at postembryonic stages. By contrast, neuroepithelial-like stem/progenitor (NE) cells have been shown to be present throughout life in teleosts. We used three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of cleared transgenic wdr12:GFP medaka brains to demonstrate that this cell type is widespread in juvenile and to identify new regions containing NE cells. We established the gene expression profile of optic tectum (OT) NE cells by cell sorting followed by RNA-seq. Our results demonstrate that most OT NE cells are indeed active stem cells and that some of them exhibit long G2 phases. We identified several novel pathways (e.g., DNA repair pathways) potentially involved in NE cell homeostasis. In situ hybridization studies showed that all NE populations in the postembryonic medaka brain have a similar molecular signature. Our findings highlight the importance of NE progenitors in medaka and improve our understanding of NE-cell biology. These cells are potentially useful not only for neural stem cell studies but also for improving the characterization of neurodevelopmental diseases, such as microcephaly. Stem Cells 2017;35:1505-1518.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Dambroise
- INRA CASBAH Group, Neuro-PSI, UMR 9197, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Matthieu Simion
- INRA CASBAH Group, Neuro-PSI, UMR 9197, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | | | | | - Barbara Rizzi
- Tefor Core Facility, TEFOR Infrastructure, Neuro-PSI, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | | | | | - Pierre Affaticati
- Tefor Core Facility, TEFOR Infrastructure, Neuro-PSI, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Aurélie Heuzé
- INRA CASBAH Group, Neuro-PSI, UMR 9197, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Julia Jouralet
- Plateforme BM-Gif, Imagif, UMR 9198, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Joanne Edouard
- UMS AMAGEN CNRS, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Frédéric Sohm
- UMS AMAGEN CNRS, INRA, Université Paris-Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Franck Bourrat
- INRA CASBAH Group, Neuro-PSI, UMR 9197, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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46
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Nano M, Basto R. Consequences of Centrosome Dysfunction During Brain Development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1002:19-45. [PMID: 28600781 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-57127-0_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Development requires cell proliferation, differentiation and spatial organization of daughter cells to occur in a highly controlled manner. The mode of cell division, the extent of proliferation and the spatial distribution of mitosis allow the formation of tissues of the right size and with the correct structural organization. All these aspects depend on cell cycle duration, correct chromosome segregation and spindle orientation. The centrosome, which is the main microtubule-organizing centre (MTOC) of animal cells, contributes to all these processes. As one of the most structurally complex organs in our body, the brain is particularly susceptible to centrosome dysfunction. Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH), primordial dwarfism disease Seckel syndrome (SCKS) and microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD-II) are often connected to mutations in centrosomal genes. In this chapter, we discuss the consequences of centrosome dysfunction during development and how they can contribute to the etiology of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Nano
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR144, 12 rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Renata Basto
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR144, 12 rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
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47
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Ke Q, Li W, Lai X, Chen H, Huang L, Kang Z, Li K, Ren J, Lin X, Zheng H, Huang W, Ma Y, Xu D, Chen Z, Song X, Lin X, Zhuang M, Wang T, Zhuang F, Xi J, Mao FF, Xia H, Lahn BT, Zhou Q, Yang S, Xiang AP. TALEN-based generation of a cynomolgus monkey disease model for human microcephaly. Cell Res 2016; 26:1048-61. [PMID: 27502025 PMCID: PMC5034111 DOI: 10.1038/cr.2016.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene editing in non-human primates may lead to valuable models for exploring the etiologies and therapeutic strategies of genetically based neurological disorders in humans. However, a monkey model of neurological disorders that closely mimics pathological and behavioral deficits in humans has not yet been successfully generated. Microcephalin 1 (MCPH1) is implicated in the evolution of the human brain, and MCPH1 mutation causes microcephaly accompanied by mental retardation. Here we generated a cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) carrying biallelic MCPH1 mutations using transcription activator-like effector nucleases. The monkey recapitulated most of the important clinical features observed in patients, including marked reductions in head circumference, premature chromosome condensation (PCC), hypoplasia of the corpus callosum and upper limb spasticity. Moreover, overexpression of MCPH1 in mutated dermal fibroblasts rescued the PCC syndrome. This monkey model may help us elucidate the role of MCPH1 in the pathogenesis of human microcephaly and better understand the function of this protein in the evolution of primate brain size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Ke
- Program of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510623, China.,Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Biology, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Weiqiang Li
- Program of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510623, China.,Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xingqiang Lai
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lihua Huang
- Program of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Zhuang Kang
- Department of Radiology, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Kai Li
- Department of Ultrasound, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Ultrasound, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lin
- Department of Radiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Haiqing Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Science, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Weijun Huang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yunhan Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Severe Clinical Animal Diseases, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dongdong Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Severe Clinical Animal Diseases, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xinming Song
- Department of Medical Genetics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xinyi Lin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Min Zhuang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | | | - Jianzhong Xi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Yannan Yuan 60, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Frank Fuxiang Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhong Shan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510060, China
| | - Huimin Xia
- Program of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Bruce T Lahn
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Qi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shihua Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Severe Clinical Animal Diseases, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Andy Peng Xiang
- Program of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Affiliated Guangzhou Women and Children's Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510623, China.,Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou 510080, China.,Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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48
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Liu X, Zhou ZW, Wang ZQ. The DNA damage response molecule MCPH1 in brain development and beyond. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2016; 48:678-85. [PMID: 27197793 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmw048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Microcephalin (MCPH1) is identified as being responsible for the neurodevelopmental disorder primary microcephaly type 1, which is characterized by a smaller-than-normal brain size and mental retardation. MCPH1 has originally been identified as an important regulator of telomere integrity and of cell cycle control. Genetic and cellular studies show that MCPH1 controls neurogenesis by coordinating the cell cycle and the centrosome cycle and thereby regulating the division mode of neuroprogenitors to prevent the exhaustion of the progenitor pool and thereby microcephaly. In addition to its role in neurogenesis, MCPH1 plays a role in gonad development. MCPH1 also functions as a tumor suppressor in several human cancers as well as in mouse models. Here, we review the role of MCPH1 in DNA damage response, cell cycle control, chromosome condensation and chromatin remodeling. We also summarize the studies on the biological functions of MCPH1 in brain size determination and in pathologies, including infertility and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Liu
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Zhong-Wei Zhou
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany
| | - Zhao-Qi Wang
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), Jena, Germany Faculty of Biology and Pharmacy, Friedrich-Schiller University of Jena, Jena, Germany
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49
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Pulvers JN, Journiac N, Arai Y, Nardelli J. MCPH1: a window into brain development and evolution. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:92. [PMID: 25870538 PMCID: PMC4376118 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of the mammalian cerebral cortex involves a series of mechanisms: from patterning, progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation, to neuronal migration. Many factors influence the development of the cerebral cortex to its normal size and neuronal composition. Of these, the mechanisms that influence the proliferation and differentiation of neural progenitor cells are of particular interest, as they may have the greatest consequence on brain size, not only during development but also in evolution. In this context, causative genes of human autosomal recessive primary microcephaly, such as ASPM and MCPH1, are attractive candidates, as many of them show positive selection during primate evolution. MCPH1 causes microcephaly in mice and humans and is involved in a diverse array of molecular functions beyond brain development, including DNA repair and chromosome condensation. Positive selection of MCPH1 in the primate lineage has led to much insight and discussion of its role in brain size evolution. In this review, we will present an overview of MCPH1 from these multiple angles, and whilst its specific role in brain size regulation during development and evolution remain elusive, the pieces of the puzzle will be discussed with the aim of putting together the full picture of this fascinating gene.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathalie Journiac
- U1141 Inserm Paris, France ; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMRS 1141 Paris, France
| | - Yoko Arai
- Institut Jacques Monod, CNRS UMR 7592, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité Paris, France
| | - Jeannette Nardelli
- U1141 Inserm Paris, France ; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, UMRS 1141 Paris, France
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50
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Faheem M, Naseer MI, Rasool M, Chaudhary AG, Kumosani TA, Ilyas AM, Pushparaj P, Ahmed F, Algahtani HA, Al-Qahtani MH, Saleh Jamal H. Molecular genetics of human primary microcephaly: an overview. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8 Suppl 1:S4. [PMID: 25951892 PMCID: PMC4315316 DOI: 10.1186/1755-8794-8-s1-s4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by microcephaly present at birth and non-progressive mental retardation. Microcephaly is the outcome of a smaller but architecturally normal brain; the cerebral cortex exhibits a significant decrease in size. MCPH is a neurogenic mitotic disorder, though affected patients demonstrate normal neuronal migration, neuronal apoptosis and neural function. Twelve MCPH loci (MCPH1-MCPH12) have been mapped to date from various populations around the world and contain the following genes: Microcephalin, WDR62, CDK5RAP2, CASC5, ASPM, CENPJ, STIL, CEP135, CEP152, ZNF335, PHC1 and CDK6. It is predicted that MCPH gene mutations may lead to the disease phenotype due to a disturbed mitotic spindle orientation, premature chromosomal condensation, signalling response as a result of damaged DNA, microtubule dynamics, transcriptional control or a few other hidden centrosomal mechanisms that can regulate the number of neurons produced by neuronal precursor cells. Additional findings have further elucidated the microcephaly aetiology and pathophysiology, which has informed the clinical management of families suffering from MCPH. The provision of molecular diagnosis and genetic counselling may help to decrease the frequency of this disorder.
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