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Guan J, Chen X, Li Z, Deng S, Wumaier A, Ma Y, Xie L, Huang S, Zhu Y, Zhuo Y. Role of N6-methyladenosine-related lncRnas in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma. Epigenetics 2024; 19:2348840. [PMID: 38716769 PMCID: PMC11086004 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2348840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To explore the role of lncRNA m6A methylation modification in aqueous humour (AH) of patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG). Patients with open-angle PXG under surgery from June 2021 to December 2021 were selected. Age- and gender-matched patients with age-related cataract (ARC) were chosen as control. Patients underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations. 0.05-0.1 ml AH were extracted during surgery for MeRIP-Seq and RNA-Seq. Joint analysis was used to screen lncRNAs with differential m6A methylation modification and expression. Online software tools were used to draw lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network (ceRNA). Expression of lncRNAs and mRNAs was confirmed using quantitative real-time PCR. A total of 4151 lncRNAs and 4386 associated m6A methylation modified peaks were identified in the PXG group. Similarly, 2490 lncRNAs and 2595 associated m6A methylation modified peaks were detected in the control. Compared to the ARC group, the PXG group had 234 hypermethylated and 402 hypomethylated m6A peaks, with statistically significant differences (| Fold Change (FC) |≥2, p < 0.05). Bioinformatic analysis revealed that these differentially methylated lncRNA enriched in extracellular matrix formation, tight adhesion, TGF- β signalling pathway, AMPK signalling pathway, and MAPK signalling pathway. Joint analysis identified 10 lncRNAs with differential m6A methylation and expression simultaneously. Among them, the expression of ENST000000485383 and ROCK1 were confirmed downregulated in the PXG group by RT-qPCR. m6A methylation modification may affect the expression of lncRNA and participate in the pathogenesis of PXG through the ceRNA network. ENST000000485383-hsa miR592-ROCK1 May be a potential target pathway for further investigation in PXG m6A methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieying Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
- Research Centre of Basic Integrative Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhidong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuifeng Deng
- The Department of Ophthalmology, Huizhou Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou Medical University (Huizhou Third People’s Hospital), Huizhou, China
| | - Aizezi Wumaier
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
- The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People’s Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yuncheng Ma
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
- The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People’s Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Lingling Xie
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
- The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People’s Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Shengsong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingting Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, China
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Xia Y, Chen K, Yang Q, Chen Z, Jin L, Zhang L, Yu X, Wang L, Xie C, Zhao Y, Shen Y, Tong J. Methylation in cornea and corneal diseases: a systematic review. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:169. [PMID: 38589350 PMCID: PMC11002037 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01935-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Corneal diseases are among the primary causes of blindness and vision loss worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of corneal diseases remains elusive, and diagnostic and therapeutic tools are limited. Thus, identifying new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases has gained great interest. Methylation, a type of epigenetic modification, modulates various cellular processes at both nucleic acid and protein levels. Growing evidence shows that methylation is a key regulator in the pathogenesis of corneal diseases, including inflammation, fibrosis, and neovascularization, making it an attractive potential therapeutic target. In this review, we discuss the major alterations of methylation and demethylation at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels in corneal diseases and how these dynamics contribute to the pathogenesis of corneal diseases. Also, we provide insights into identifying potential biomarkers of methylation that may improve the diagnosis and treatment of corneal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Xia
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Kuangqi Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qianjie Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Zhitong Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Le Jin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyue Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xin Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Liyin Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Chen Xie
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yuan Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - Jianping Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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Li B, Wang Z, Zhou H, Zou J, Yoshida S, Zhou Y. N6-methyladenosine methylation in ophthalmic diseases: From mechanisms to potential applications. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23668. [PMID: 38192819 PMCID: PMC10772099 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, as the most common modification method in eukaryotes, is widely involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, such as embryonic development, malignancy, immune regulation, and premature aging. Under pathological conditions of ocular diseases, changes in m6A modification and its metabolism can be detected in aqueous and vitreous humor. At the same time, an increasing number of studies showed that m6A modification is involved in the normal development of eye structures and the occurrence and progress of many ophthalmic diseases, especially ocular neovascular diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and melanoma. In this review, we summarized the latest progress regarding m6A modification in ophthalmic diseases, changes in m6A modification-related enzymes in various pathological states and their upstream and downstream regulatory networks, provided new prospects for m6A modification in ophthalmic diseases and new ideas for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Zicong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Haixiang Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jingling Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Shigeo Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Yedi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
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Wang X, Li X, Zong Y, Yu J, Chen Y, Zhao M, Wu D, Liao Y, Jiang C, Zhu H. Identification and Validation of Genes Related to RNA Methylation Modification in Diabetic Retinopathy. Curr Eye Res 2023; 48:1034-1049. [PMID: 37529844 DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2023.2238144] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify and validate the differentially expressed genes related to RNA methylation modification in diabetic retinopathy. METHODS The data sets GSE12610 and GSE111465 related to diabetic retinopathy in the Gene Expression Omnibus were selected. The R software package was used to identify differentially expressed genes related to RNA methylation modification in diabetic retinopathy. Protein-protein interaction network was constructed to explore the interactions between proteins and predict proteins. Then, Gene Ontology annotation analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis were used to analyze the potential enrichment pathways and clarify the biological functions of these genes. In addition, the correlation between them and immune cells was visualized, and receiver operating characteristic curves were drawn to evaluate the diagnostic performance of each one of them for diabetic retinopathy. To verify the differentially expressed genes, the mRNA expression of rat retinal vascular endothelial cells cultured in low and high glucose medium separately were detected by RT-qPCR. RESULTS The expression of Lrpprc, Nsun4, Nsun6 and Trdmt1 were significantly up-regulated in diabetic retinopathy samples, while the expression of Cbll1, Hnrnpc, Mettl3 and Wtap were significantly down-regulated. Differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the RNA-methylation-medication pathways and biological function. The results of immune infiltration analysis proved that eosinophils aggregated more in diabetic group, while T cells follicular helper aggregated more in normal samples. These genes of Cbll1 (AUC = 0.986), Hnrnpc (AUC = 0.819), Lrpprc (AUC = 0.806), Mettl3 (AUC = 0.917), Nsun4 (AUC = 0.819), Nsun6 (AUC = 0.819), Trdmt1 (AUC = 0.972) and Wtap (AUC = 0.972) were respectively used as the diagnostic basis of diabetic retinopathy. According to the RT-qPCR results, the expression of Mettl3 was significantly down-regulated (p < 0.0005) in cells cultured in high glucose, while Trdmt1 (p < 0.05), Nsun4 (p < 0.05) and Nsun6 (p < 0.05) were significantly up-regulated. CONCLUSION Differentially expressed genes such as Mettl3, Nsun4, Nsun6, and Trdmt1 should be conducted to explore, and the role of RNA methylation in the process of diabetic retinopathy would be revealed in-depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomei Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Zong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Minghui Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Danping Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujie Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunhui Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haohao Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Guan J, Li Z, Wumaier A, Ma Y, Xie L, Wu H, Chen R, Zhu Y, Zhuo Y. Critical role of transcriptome-wide m6A methylation in the aqueous humor of patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma. Exp Eye Res 2023; 231:109473. [PMID: 37061115 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109473] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is one of the most common types of methylation modifications in eukaryotic mRNA. However, its role in the pathogenesis of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG) has not yet been reported. To enhance understanding in this regard, we assessed the m6A methylome in the aqueous humor of patients with PXG. MeRIP-Seq and RNA-Seq analyses were performed to compare the m6A methylomes and gene expression profiles of the aqueous humor of patients with PXG with those of patients with age-related cataract (ARC). Colorimetric m6A quantification was performed to detect global m6A levels. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR confirmed the expression of m6A-related enzymes and mRNAs in both groups. Results showed significantly higher aqueous humor m6A levels in the PXG group than in the ARC group. Five m6A-related enzymes, including METTL3, YTHDC2, HNRNPA2B1, HNRNPC, and LRPPRC, were significantly up-regulated in PXG specimens. We also observed 9728 m6A-modified peaks related to 6126 gene transcripts in the PXG group, with more than 250 genes containing one m6A peak (hypomethylated or hypermethylated). The distribution of the m6A peaks was enriched in coding sequences and 3'-untranslated regions for both groups. GGAC motif structures were also significantly enriched. Bioinformatics analysis further revealed that m6A plays a critical role in extracellular matrix formation and histone deacetylation. Additionally, MMP14, ADAMTSL1, FN1, and HDAC1 showed significant changes in m6A methylation and mRNA expression in the PXG group. Therefore, m6A methylation may regulate extracellular matrix composition in PXG and METTL3 may be a pivotal regulator of this process. In the future, it would be necessary to investigate MMP14, ADAMTSL1, FN1, and HDAC1, which are potential target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieying Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China; The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China; The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China.
| | - Zhidong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Aizezi Wumaier
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China; The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China.
| | - Yuncheng Ma
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China; The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China.
| | - Lingling Xie
- The Affiliated Kashi Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China; The First Department of Ophthalmology, The First People's Hospital of Kashi Prefecture, Kashi, Xinjiang, 844000, China.
| | - Heping Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Rongxin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Yingting Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Yehong Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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m6A Modification-Association with Oxidative Stress and Implications on Eye Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020510. [PMID: 36830067 PMCID: PMC9952187 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020510] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) refers to a state of imbalance between oxidation and antioxidation. OS is considered to be an important factor leading to aging and a range of diseases. The eyes are highly oxygen-consuming organs. Due to its continuous exposure to ultraviolet light, the eye is particularly vulnerable to the impact of OS, leading to eye diseases such as corneal disease, cataracts, glaucoma, etc. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most investigated RNA post-transcriptional modification and participates in a variety of cellular biological processes. In this study, we review the role of m6A modification in oxidative stress-induced eye diseases and some therapeutic methods to provide a relatively overall understanding of m6A modification in oxidative stress-related eye diseases.
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Tang H, Huang L, Hu J. Inhibition of the m6A Methyltransferase METTL3 Attenuates the Inflammatory Response in Fusarium solani-Induced Keratitis via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:2. [PMID: 36194423 PMCID: PMC9547362 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.11.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to elucidate the effect of methyltransferase-like enzyme 3 (METTL3) on inflammation and the NF-κB signaling pathway in fungal keratitis (FK). Methods We established corneal stromal cell models and FK mouse models by incubation with Fusarium solani. The overall RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) level was determined using an m6A RNA methylation assay kit. The expression of METTL3 was quantified via real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Subsequently, the level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) was identified by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. Moreover, we assessed the effect of METTL3 by transfecting cells with siRNA (in vitro) or adeno-associated virus (in vivo). Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and slit-lamp biomicroscopy were performed to evaluate corneal damage. Furthermore, the state of NF-κB signaling pathway activation was examined by Western blotting. In addition, RT–PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were performed to evaluate levels of the pro-inflammatory factors interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and TNF-ɑ. Results Our data demonstrated that the levels of the RNA m6A methylation and METTL3 were dramatically increased and that the NF-κB signaling pathway was activated in Fusarium solani-induced keratitis. Inhibition of METTL3 decreased the level of TRAF6, downregulated the phospho-p65(p-p65)/p65 and phospho-IκB(p-IκB)/IκB protein ratios, simultaneously attenuating the inflammatory response and fungal burden in FK. Conclusions Our research suggests that the m6A methyltransferase METTL3 regulates the inflammatory response in FK by modulating the NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanfeng Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Liwei Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Jianzhang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
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Huang L, Tang H, Hu J. METTL3 Attenuates Inflammation in Fusarium solani-Induced Keratitis via the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2022; 63:20. [PMID: 36169946 PMCID: PMC9526359 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.63.10.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Our previous investigations revealed a significant role of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3)-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in the development of corneal inflammation in Fusarium infection, but the exact mechanism is unknown. Therefore, this research aimed to explore how METTL3 affects the inflammatory process of fungal keratitis (FK) in mice. Methods We established in vitro and in vivo models by inoculating mice and primary corneal stromal cells with F. solani. METTL3 expression was confirmed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, and western blotting. After that, siRNAMETTL3 and AAV-sh-METTL3 were transfected into cells and mice to explore the role of METTL3 in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and inflammation. PI3K, p-PI3K, AKT, and p-AKT expression was analyzed by western blotting. Viability of corneal stromal cells was measured using a Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Additionally, we detected interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels in corneal tissues and analyzed the role of METTL3 in inflammation in FK using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results Here, our results show that METTL3 increased in mouse FK, and the expression of p-PI3K and p-AKT decreased when METTL3 was downregulated. We also found that knockdown of METTL3 expression attenuated the inflammatory response and decreased TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 expression in corneal-infected mice. Furthermore, inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway attenuated the inflammatory response of FK, decreased the expression of the above inflammatory factors, and enhanced the viability of corneal stromal cells. Conclusions Based on the study results, METTL3 downregulation attenuates Fusarium-induced corneal inflammation via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Hanfeng Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
| | - Jianzhang Hu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fu Zhou, China
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Peng Y, Wang Z, Li B, Tan W, Zou J, Li Y, Yoshida S, Zhou Y. N 6-methyladenosine modifications of mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs in oxygen-induced retinopathy in mice. Exp Eye Res 2022; 220:109114. [PMID: 35584758 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Retinal neovascular diseases are major causes of blindness worldwide. As a common epitranscriptomic modification of eukaryotic RNAs, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is associated with the pathogenesis of many diseases, including angiogenesis, through the regulation of RNA metabolism and functions. The aim of this study was to identify m6A modifications of mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and determine their potential roles in retinal neovascularization. The transcriptome-wide m6A profiles of mRNAs and lncRNAs in the retinal tissues of mice with oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) and controls were identified by microarray analysis of immunoprecipitated methylated RNAs. The m6A methylation levels of mRNAs and lncRNAs identified in the microarray data were validated by MeRIP-qPCR. A total of 1321 mRNAs (151 hypermethylated and 1170 hypomethylated) and 192 lncRNAs (15 hypermethylated and 177 hypomethylated) were differentially methylated with the m6A modification in OIR and control mice. Gene ontology analysis showed that hypermethylated mRNAs were enriched in the regulation of multicellular organismal process, intracellular organelle, and protein binding, while hypomethylated mRNAs were enriched in cellular metabolic process, intracellular process, and binding. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis indicated that hypermethylated mRNAs were involved in dopaminergic synapses, glutamatergic synapse, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, while hypomethylated mRNAs were involved in autophagy, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, and spliceosome. Moreover, the altered levels of m6A methylation of ANGPT2, GNG12, ROBO4, and ENSMUST00000153785 were validated by MeRIP-qPCR. The results revealed an altered m6A epitranscriptome in OIR retinas. These methylated RNAs may act as novel modulators and targets in retinal neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqian Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Zicong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Bingyan Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Jingling Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
| | - Shigeo Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Fukuoka, 830-0011, Japan
| | - Yedi Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China; Hunan Clinical Research Center of Ophthalmic Disease, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
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The essential role of N6-methyladenosine RNA methylation in complex eye diseases. Genes Dis 2022; 10:505-520. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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11
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Shen L, Yu Y, Jiang M, Zhao J. Alteration of the m 6A methylation landscape in a mouse model of scleroderma. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1867-1883. [PMID: 34791892 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To explore the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation of mRNAs and its roles in a mouse model of scleroderma. Materials & methods: To evaluate whether the mouse model of scleroderma could meet the experimental requirements, we examined skin tissue specimens by pathological staining and identified the related indicators by quantitative PCR (qPCR). m6A-tagged mRNAs were identified via m6A epitranscriptomic microarray, and m6A-RNA-immunoprecipitation qPCR and qPCR were performed to confirm microarray data. Results: There were differences in m6A methylation among 843 mRNAs. Further, there were significant differences among Hras, Saa1, Ccl3, Ccl9 and Il1b in terms of methylation and expression. Conclusion: The m6A methylation spectrum in a mouse model of scleroderma may explain the occurrence of scleroderma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangliang Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Jingjun Zhao
- Department of Dermatology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
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Ghazi T, Chuturgoon AA. Mycotoxins exacerbate HIV infection: the potential of N 6-methyladenosine RNA methylation. Epigenomics 2021; 13:1905-1908. [PMID: 34657481 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Terisha Ghazi
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa
| | - Anil A Chuturgoon
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 4041, South Africa
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13
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Ghazi T, Nagiah S, Chuturgoon AA. Fusaric acid induces hepatic global m6A RNA methylation and differential expression of m6A regulatory genes in vivo - a pilot study. Epigenetics 2021; 17:695-703. [PMID: 34517792 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2021.1975937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an abundant epitranscriptomic mark that regulates gene expression to execute cellular developmental programmes and environmental adaptation. Fusaric acid (FA) is a mycotoxin that contaminates agricultural foods and exerts toxicity in humans and animals; however, its epitranscriptomic effects are unclear. We investigated the effect of FA on global m6A RNA methylation and mRNA expression levels of key m6A regulatory genes in C57BL/6 mouse livers. C57BL/6 mice (n = 6/group) were orally administered 0.1 M phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or 50 mg/kg FA. Mice were euthanized 24 h after oral administration, livers were harvested, and RNA was isolated. RNA samples were assayed for global m6A levels using an m6A RNA Methylation Quantification Kit. The mRNA expression of m6A regulators i.e. writers, erasers, and readers were measured by qRT-PCR. FA increased global m6A RNA methylation (p < 0.0001) in mouse livers. FA increased the expression of METTL3 (p = 0.0143) and METTL14 (p = 0.0281), and decreased the expression of FTO (p = 0.0036) and ALKBH5 (p = 0.0035). The expression of YTHDF2 (p = 0.0007), YTHDF3 (p = 0.0061), and YTHDC2 (p = 0.0258) were increased by FA in mouse livers. This study shows that the liver m6A epitranscriptome can be modified by FA exposure in an in vivo model and can be useful for identifying the molecular mechanisms whereby m6A RNA modifications influence the toxicological outcomes of FA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terisha Ghazi
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Savania Nagiah
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Anil A Chuturgoon
- Discipline of Medical Biochemistry, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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14
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Gao JF, Zhang L. The role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in eye diseases. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6145-6150. [PMID: 34331665 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06596-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common form of internal RNA modification in eukaryotes. The dynamic regulation of m6A modification mainly rely on three proteases, installed by m6A methyltransferase, removed by m6A demethylase and recognized by m6A reader protein, which regulates the metabolism of RNA, thereby regulating the processes of cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. Recently, a number of studies have found that m6A aberrant methylation in some eye diseases. This review was to summarize the recent research progress on the role of m6A modification in eye diseases and give a perspective on its prospective applications in eye diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Fan Gao
- Eye Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Eye Hospital, the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China.
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