1
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Tresenrider A, Hooper M, Todd L, Kierney F, Blasdel N, Trapnell C, Reh TA. A multiplexed, single-cell sequencing screen identifies compounds that increase neurogenic reprogramming of murine Muller glia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.09.26.559569. [PMID: 37808650 PMCID: PMC10557658 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.26.559569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Retinal degeneration in mammals causes permanent loss of vision, due to an inability to regenerate naturally. Some non-mammalian vertebrates show robust regeneration, via Muller glia (MG). We have recently made significant progress in stimulating adult mouse MG to regenerate functional neurons by transgenic expression of the proneural transcription factor Ascl1. While these results showed that MG can serve as an endogenous source of neuronal replacement, the efficacy of this process is limited. With the goal of improving this in mammals, we designed a small molecule screen using sci-Plex, a method to multiplex up to thousands of single nucleus RNA-seq conditions into a single experiment. We used this technology to screen a library of 92 compounds, identified, and validated two that promote neurogenesis in vivo. Our results demonstrate that high-throughput single-cell molecular profiling can substantially improve the discovery process for molecules and pathways that can stimulate neural regeneration and further demonstrate the potential for this approach to restore vision in patients with retinal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Tresenrider
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Marcus Hooper
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Levi Todd
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Faith Kierney
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Nicolai Blasdel
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Cole Trapnell
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Brotman-Baty Institute for Precision Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Allen Discovery Center for Cell Lineage Tracing, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Thomas A. Reh
- Department of Biological Structure, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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2
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Lu CF, Zhou YN, Zhang J, Su S, Liu Y, Peng GH, Zang W, Cao J. The role of epigenetic methylation/demethylation in the regulation of retinal photoreceptors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1149132. [PMID: 37305686 PMCID: PMC10251769 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1149132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptors are integral and crucial for the retina, as they convert light into electrical signals. Epigenetics plays a vital role in determining the precise expression of genetic information in space and time during the development and maturation of photoreceptors, cell differentiation, degeneration, death, and various pathological processes. Epigenetic regulation has three main manifestations: histone modification, DNA methylation, and RNA-based mechanisms, where methylation is involved in two regulatory mechanisms-histone methylation and DNA methylation. DNA methylation is the most studied form of epigenetic modification, while histone methylation is a relatively stable regulatory mechanism. Evidence suggests that normal methylation regulation is essential for the growth and development of photoreceptors and the maintenance of their functions, while abnormal methylation can lead to many pathological forms of photoreceptors. However, the role of methylation/demethylation in regulating retinal photoreceptors remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to review the role of methylation/demethylation in regulating photoreceptors in various physiological and pathological situations and discuss the underlying mechanisms involved. Given the critical role of epigenetic regulation in gene expression and cellular differentiation, investigating the specific molecular mechanisms underlying these processes in photoreceptors may provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of retinal diseases. Moreover, understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of novel therapies that target the epigenetic machinery, thereby promoting the maintenance of retinal function throughout an individual's lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Fan Lu
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhou
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Songxue Su
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yupeng Liu
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Hua Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Laboratory of Visual Cell Differentiation and Regulation, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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3
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Hussein MNA, Cao X, Elokil AA, Huang S. Characterisation of stem and proliferating cells on the retina and lens of loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 96:102-110. [PMID: 31674006 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The eye of the fish has a lifelong persistent neurogenesis unlike eye of mammals, so it's highly interesting to study retinal neurogenesis and its genetic control to give complete knowledge about the cause of this property in fish in comparison to mammals. We performed fluorescent in situ hybridisation for loach Misgurnus anguillicaudatus bmi1, msi1 and sox2 genes, which are used as an indicator of the sites of multipotent stem cells. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), bromodeoxyuridine (BRDU) and KI67 markers were used as indicators of proliferating cells and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunofluorescence was used for detection of the glial property of cells, as well as, immunohistochemistry detected the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α and γ in retinal neurogenesis. Our results determined that the lens and the retina of loach M. anguillicaudatus contain proliferative and pluripotent stem cells that have both glial and neuroepithelial properties, which add new cells continuously throughout life even without injury-induced proliferation. The PPARα has an essential function in providing energy supply for retinal neurogenesis more than PPARγ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona N A Hussein
- College of Fisheries, Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Xiaojuan Cao
- College of Fisheries, Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Pond Aquaculture, Hubei, China
| | - Abdelmotaleb A Elokil
- College of Fisheries, Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Animal Productions Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Songqian Huang
- College of Fisheries, Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Aquatic Bioscience, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Japan
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4
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Yang Z, Jiang S, Lu C, Ji T, Yang W, Li T, Lv J, Hu W, Yang Y, Jin Z. SOX11: friend or foe in tumor prevention and carcinogenesis? Ther Adv Med Oncol 2019; 11:1758835919853449. [PMID: 31210798 PMCID: PMC6547177 DOI: 10.1177/1758835919853449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility-group box transcription factor 11
(SOX11) is an essential member of the SOX transcription factors and has been
highlighted as an important regulator in embryogenesis. SOX11 studies have only
recently shifted focus from its role in embryogenesis and development to its
function in disease. In particular, the role of SOX11 in carcinogenesis has
become of major interest in the field. SOX11 expression is elevated in a wide
variety of tumors. In many cancers, dysfunctional expression of SOX11 has been
correlated with increased cancer cell survival, inhibited cell differentiation,
and tumor progression through the induction of metastasis and angiogenesis.
Nevertheless, in a limited number of malignancies, SOX11 has also been
identified to function as a tumor suppressor. Herein, we review the correlation
between the expression of SOX11 and tumor behaviors. We also summarize the
mechanisms underlying the regulation of SOX11 expression and activity in
pathological conditions. In particular, we focus on the pathological processes
of cancer targeted by SOX11 and discuss whether SOX11 is protective or
detrimental during tumor progression. Moreover, SOX11 is highlighted as a
clinical biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of various human cancer. The
information reviewed here should assist in future experimental designs and
emphasize the potential of SOX11 as a therapeutic target for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Department of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Chenxi Lu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ting Ji
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenwen Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Tian Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianjun Lv
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Immunology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhenxiao Jin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 127 Changle West Road, Xi'an 710032, China
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5
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Li Y, Struebing FL, Wang J, King R, Geisert EE. Different Effect of Sox11 in Retinal Ganglion Cells Survival and Axon Regeneration. Front Genet 2018; 9:633. [PMID: 30619460 PMCID: PMC6305287 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The present study examines the role of Sox11 in the initial response of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) to axon damage and in optic nerve regeneration in mouse. Methods: Markers of retinal injury were identified using the normal retina database and optic nerve crush (ONC) database on GeneNetwork2 (www.genenetwork.org). One gene, Sox11, was highly upregulated following ONC. We examined the role of this transcription factor, Sox11, following ONC and optic nerve regeneration in mice. In situ hybridization was performed using the Affymetrix 2-plex Quantigene View RNA In Situ Hybridization Tissue Assay System. Sox11 was partially knocked out by intravitreal injection of AAV2-CMV-Cre-GFP in Sox11 f/f mice. Optic nerve regeneration model used Pten knockdown. Mice were perfused and the retinas and optic nerves were dissected and examined for RGC survival and axon growth. Results: Sox11 was dramatically upregulated in the retina following ONC injury. The level of Sox11 message increased by approximately eightfold 2 days after ONC. In situ hybridization demonstrated low-level Sox11 message in RGCs and cells in the inner nuclear layer in the normal retina as well as a profound increase in Sox11 message within the ganglion cells following ONC. In Sox11 f/f retinas, partially knocking out Sox11 significantly increased RGC survival after ONC as compared to the AAV2-CMV-GFP control group; however, it had little effect on the ability of axon regeneration. Combinatorial downregulation of both Sox11 and Pten resulted in a significant increase in RGC survival as compared to Pten knockdown only. When Pten was knocked down there was a remarkable increase in the number and the length of regenerating axons. Partially knocking out Sox11 in combination with Pten deletion resulted in a fewer regenerating axons. Conclusion: Taken together, these data demonstrate that Sox11 is involved in the initial response of the retina to injury, playing a role in the early attempts of axon regeneration and neuronal survival. Downregulation of Sox11 aids in RGC survival following injury of optic nerve axons, while a partial knockout of Sox11 negates the axon regeneration stimulated by Pten knockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Felix L Struebing
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Center for Neuropathology and Prion Research, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department for Translational Brain Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Germany
| | - Jiaxing Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Rebecca King
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Eldon E Geisert
- Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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6
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Shafabakhsh R, Aghadavod E, Ghayour‐Mobarhan M, Ferns G, Asemi Z. Role of histone modification and DNA methylation in signaling pathways involved in diabetic retinopathy. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:7839-7846. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rana Shafabakhsh
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
| | - Esmat Aghadavod
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
| | - Majid Ghayour‐Mobarhan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Mashhad Iran
| | - Gordon Ferns
- Division of Medical Education Brighton & Sussex Medical School Brighton UK
| | - Zatollah Asemi
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases Kashan University of Medical Sciences Kashan Iran
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7
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Braccioli L, Vervoort SJ, Puma G, Nijboer CH, Coffer PJ. SOX4 inhibits oligodendrocyte differentiation of embryonic neural stem cells in vitro by inducing Hes5 expression. Stem Cell Res 2018; 33:110-119. [PMID: 30343100 DOI: 10.1016/j.scr.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
SOX4 has been shown to promote neuronal differentiation both in the adult and embryonic neural progenitors. Ectopic SOX4 expression has also been shown to inhibit oligodendrocyte differentiation in mice, however the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that SOX4 regulates transcriptional targets associated with neural development in neural stem cells (NSCs), reducing the expression of genes promoting oligodendrocyte differentiation. Interestingly, we observe that SOX4 levels decreased during oligodendrocyte differentiation in vitro. Moreover, we show that SOX4 knockdown induces increased oligodendrocyte differentiation, as the percentage of Olig2-positive/2',3'-Cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase)-positive maturing oligodendrocytes increases, while the number of Olig2-positive oligodendrocyte precursors is unaffected. Conversely, conditional SOX4 overexpression utilizing a doxycycline inducible system decreases the percentage of maturing oligodendrocytes, suggesting that SOX4 inhibits maturation from precursor to mature oligodendrocyte. We identify the transcription factor Hes5 as a direct SOX4 target gene and we show that conditional overexpression of Hes5 rescues the increased oligodendrocyte differentiation mediated by SOX4 depletion in NSCs. Taken together, these observations support a novel role for SOX4 in NSC by controlling oligodendrocyte differentiation through induction of Hes5 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Braccioli
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Developmental Origins of Disease (NIDOD), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3508, AB, the Netherlands; Center for Molecular Medicine and Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584, CT, the Netherlands
| | - Stephin J Vervoort
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584, CT, the Netherlands
| | - Gianmarco Puma
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584, CT, the Netherlands
| | - Cora H Nijboer
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Developmental Origins of Disease (NIDOD), University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3508, AB, the Netherlands
| | - Paul J Coffer
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3584, CT, the Netherlands; Division of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, 3508, AB, the Netherlands.
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8
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Xia X, Wan R, Huo W, Zhang L, Xia X, Chang Z. Molecular cloning and mRNA expression pattern of
$$\varvec{Sox}$$
Sox
4 in Misgurnus anguillicaudatus. J Genet 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12041-018-0972-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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9
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Corso-Díaz X, Jaeger C, Chaitankar V, Swaroop A. Epigenetic control of gene regulation during development and disease: A view from the retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2018; 65:1-27. [PMID: 29544768 PMCID: PMC6054546 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Complex biological processes, such as organogenesis and homeostasis, are stringently regulated by genetic programs that are fine-tuned by epigenetic factors to establish cell fates and/or to respond to the microenvironment. Gene regulatory networks that guide cell differentiation and function are modulated and stabilized by modifications to DNA, RNA and proteins. In this review, we focus on two key epigenetic changes - DNA methylation and histone modifications - and discuss their contribution to retinal development, aging and disease, especially in the context of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy. We highlight less-studied roles of DNA methylation and provide the RNA expression profiles of epigenetic enzymes in human and mouse retina in comparison to other tissues. We also review computational tools and emergent technologies to profile, analyze and integrate epigenetic information. We suggest implementation of editing tools and single-cell technologies to trace and perturb the epigenome for delineating its role in transcriptional regulation. Finally, we present our thoughts on exciting avenues for exploring epigenome in retinal metabolism, disease modeling, and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena Corso-Díaz
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration & Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Catherine Jaeger
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration & Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Vijender Chaitankar
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration & Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Anand Swaroop
- Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration & Repair Laboratory, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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10
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SoxC transcription factors: multifunctional regulators of neurodevelopment. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 371:91-103. [PMID: 29079881 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2708-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
During development, generation of neurons is coordinated by the sequential activation of gene expression programs by stage- and subtype-specific transcription factor networks. The SoxC group transcription factors, Sox4 and Sox11, have recently emerged as critical components of this network. Initially identified as survival and differentiation factors for neural precursors, SoxC factors have now been linked to a broader array of developmental processes including neuronal subtype specification, migration, dendritogenesis and establishment of neuronal projections, and are now being employed in experimental strategies for neuronal replacement and axonal regeneration in the diseased central nervous system. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding SoxC factor function in CNS development and disease and their promise for regeneration.
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11
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Lourenço AR, Coffer PJ. SOX4: Joining the Master Regulators of Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition? Trends Cancer 2017; 3:571-582. [PMID: 28780934 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important developmental program exploited by cancer cells to gain mesenchymal features. Transcription factors globally regulating processes during EMT are often referred as 'master regulators' of EMT, and include members of the Snail and ZEB transcription factor families. The SRY-related HMG box (SOX) 4 transcription factor can promote tumorigenesis by endowing cells with migratory and invasive properties, stemness, and resistance to apoptosis, thereby regulating key aspects of the EMT program. We propose here that SOX4 should also be considered as a master regulator of EMT, and we review the molecular mechanisms underlying its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Rita Lourenço
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Uppsalalaan 6, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J Coffer
- Center for Molecular Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Regenerative Medicine Center, University Medical Center Utrecht, Uppsalalaan 6, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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12
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Sox11 Balances Dendritic Morphogenesis with Neuronal Migration in the Developing Cerebral Cortex. J Neurosci 2017; 36:5775-84. [PMID: 27225767 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3250-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The coordinated mechanisms balancing promotion and suppression of dendritic morphogenesis are crucial for the development of the cerebral cortex. Although previous studies have revealed important transcription factors that promote dendritic morphogenesis during development, those that suppress dendritic morphogenesis are still largely unknown. Here we found that the expression levels of the transcription factor Sox11 decreased dramatically during dendritic morphogenesis. Our loss- and gain-of-function studies using postnatal electroporation and in utero electroporation indicate that Sox11 is necessary and sufficient for inhibiting dendritic morphogenesis of excitatory neurons in the mouse cerebral cortex during development. Interestingly, we found that precocious suppression of Sox11 expression caused precocious branching of neurites and a neuronal migration defect. We also found that the end of radial migration induced the reduction of Sox11 expression. These findings indicate that suppression of dendritic morphogenesis by Sox11 during radial migration is crucial for the formation of the cerebral cortex. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Because dendritic morphology has profound impacts on neuronal information processing, the mechanisms underlying dendritic morphogenesis during development are of great interest. Our loss- and gain-of-function studies indicate that Sox11 is necessary and sufficient for inhibiting dendritic morphogenesis of excitatory neurons in the mouse cerebral cortex during development. Interestingly, we found that precocious suppression of Sox11 expression caused a neuronal migration defect. These findings indicate that suppression of dendritic morphogenesis by Sox11 during radial migration is crucial for the formation of the cerebral cortex.
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13
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Xia X, Wan R, Huo W, Zhang L, Xia X, Chang Z. Molecular cloning and mRNA expression pattern of Sox4 in Paramisgurnus dabryanus. Gene Expr Patterns 2017. [PMID: 28629960 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sox4 belonged to the SoxC subfamily of the Sox family, which play important roles in the development of the vertebrate gonad and nervous system. A Sox4 homologue was cloned from brain of Paramisgurnus dabryanus by using homologous cloning and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE), designated as PdSox4. The full-length cDNA was 2163bp, containing the 759bp 5'-untranslated region, 267bp 3'-untranslated region and encoding a putative protein of 378 amino acids with a characteristic high mobility group box (HMG-box) DNA-binding domain of 79 amino acids with the specific motif (RPMNAFMVW). Alignment and phylogenetic analyses indicated that PdSox4 shares highly identical sequence with Sox4 homologues from different species. The signal peptide analysis predicted that PdSox4 is a non-secretory protein. The hydropathy profile of PdSox4 protein revealed that this protein is hydrophilic in nature. The expression profiles of PdSox4 in different developmental stages and various adult tissues of sexs were analyzed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and In situ hybridization (ISH). The results showed that PdSox4 was ubiquitously expressed during embryogenesis and various adult tissues, especially in central nervous system. Tissue distribution analyses revealed that PdSox4 was expression in developing germ cells. Taken together, these preliminary findings suggested that PdSox4 is highly conserved during vertebrate evolution and involved in a wide range of developmental processes including embryogenesis, neurogenesis and gonad development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Xia
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ruyan Wan
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weiran Huo
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Linxia Zhang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaopei Xia
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhongjie Chang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Novel Regulatory Mechanisms for the SoxC Transcriptional Network Required for Visual Pathway Development. J Neurosci 2017; 37:4967-4981. [PMID: 28411269 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3430-13.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
What pathways specify retinal ganglion cell (RGC) fate in the developing retina? Here we report on mechanisms by which a molecular pathway involving Sox4/Sox11 is required for RGC differentiation and for optic nerve formation in mice in vivo, and is sufficient to differentiate human induced pluripotent stem cells into electrophysiologically active RGCs. These data place Sox4 downstream of RE1 silencing transcription factor in regulating RGC fate, and further describe a newly identified, Sox4-regulated site for post-translational modification with small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMOylation) in Sox11, which suppresses Sox11's nuclear localization and its ability to promote RGC differentiation, providing a mechanism for the SoxC familial compensation observed here and elsewhere in the nervous system. These data define novel regulatory mechanisms for this SoxC molecular network, and suggest pro-RGC molecular approaches for cell replacement-based therapies for glaucoma and other optic neuropathies.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Glaucoma is the most common cause of blindness worldwide and, along with other optic neuropathies, is characterized by loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Unfortunately, vision and RGC loss are irreversible, and lead to bilateral blindness in ∼14% of all diagnosed patients. Differentiated and transplanted RGC-like cells derived from stem cells have the potential to replace neurons that have already been lost and thereby to restore visual function. These data uncover new mechanisms of retinal progenitor cell (RPC)-to-RGC and human stem cell-to-RGC fate specification, and take a significant step toward understanding neuronal and retinal development and ultimately cell-transplant therapy.
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Mu Z, Zhang S, He C, Hou H, Liu D, Hu N, Xu H. Expression of SoxC Transcription Factors during Zebrafish Retinal and Optic Nerve Regeneration. Neurosci Bull 2016; 33:53-61. [PMID: 27743342 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-016-0073-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The SoxC transcription factors (Sox4, Sox11, and Sox12) play important roles in the development of the vertebrate eye and retina. However, their expression and function during retinal and optic nerve regeneration remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the expression and possible functions of the SoxC genes after retinal and optic nerve injury in adult zebrafish. We found that among the five SoxC members, Sox11b was strongly induced in BrdU-positive cells in the inner nuclear layer (INL) after retinal injury, and morpholino-mediated Sox11b-knockdown significantly reduced the number of proliferating cells in the INL at 4 days post-injury. After optic nerve lesion, both Sox11a and Sox11b were strongly expressed in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), and knockdown of both Sox11a and Sox11b inhibited RGC axon regrowth in retinal explants. Our study thus uncovered a novel expression pattern of SoxC family genes after retinal and optic nerve injury, and suggests that they have important functions during retinal and optic nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxia Mu
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Shuqiang Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Chunjiao He
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Haitao Hou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Nan Hu
- Eye Institute, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
| | - Hui Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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Jiang Y, Han K, Chen S, Wang Y, Zhang Z. Characterization and expression analysis of Lc-Sox4 in large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 196-197:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 12/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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17
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She ZY, Yang WX. SOX family transcription factors involved in diverse cellular events during development. Eur J Cell Biol 2015; 94:547-63. [PMID: 26340821 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2015.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In metazoa, SOX family transcription factors play many diverse roles. In vertebrate, they are well-known regulators of numerous developmental processes. Wide-ranging studies have demonstrated the co-expression of SOX proteins in various developing tissues and that they occur in an overlapping manner and show functional redundancy. In particular, studies focusing on the HMG box of SOX proteins have revealed that the HMG box regulates DNA-binding properties, and mediates both the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of SOX proteins and their physical interactions with partner proteins. Posttranslational modifications are further implicated in the regulation of the transcriptional activities of SOX proteins. In this review, we discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in the SOX-partner factor interactions and the functional modes of SOX-partner complexes during development. We particularly emphasize the representative roles of the SOX group proteins in major tissues during developmental and physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Yu She
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yu Hang Tang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yu Hang Tang Road, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Wen W, Pillai-Kastoori L, Wilson SG, Morris AC. Sox4 regulates choroid fissure closure by limiting Hedgehog signaling during ocular morphogenesis. Dev Biol 2014; 399:139-153. [PMID: 25557621 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
SoxC transcription factors play critical roles in many developmental processes, including neurogenesis, cardiac formation, and skeletal differentiation. In vitro and in vivo loss-of-function studies have suggested that SoxC genes are required for oculogenesis; however the mechanism was poorly understood. Here, we have explored the function of the SoxC factor Sox4 during zebrafish eye development. We show that sox4a and sox4b are expressed in the forebrain and periocular mesenchyme adjacent to the optic stalk during early eye development. Knockdown of sox4 in zebrafish resulted in coloboma, a structural malformation of the eye that is a significant cause of pediatric visual impairment in humans, in which the choroid fissure fails to close. Sox4 morphants displayed altered proximo-distal patterning of the optic vesicle, including expanded pax2 expression in the optic stalk, as well as ectopic cell proliferation in the retina. We show that the abnormal ocular morphogenesis observed in Sox4-deficient zebrafish is caused by elevated Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, and this is due to increased expression of the Hh pathway ligand Indian Hedgehog b (ihhb). Consistent with these results, coloboma in sox4 morphants could be rescued by pharmacological treatment with the Hh inhibitor cyclopamine, or by co-knockdown of ihhb. Conversely, overexpression of sox4 reduced Hh signaling and ihhb expression, resulting in cyclopia. Finally, we demonstrate that sox4 and sox11 have overlapping, but not completely redundant, functions in regulating ocular morphogenesis. Taken together, our data demonstrate that Sox4 is required to limit the extent of Hh signaling during eye development, and suggest that mutations in SoxC factors could contribute to the development of coloboma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wen
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0225, USA
| | | | - Stephen G Wilson
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0225, USA
| | - Ann C Morris
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0225, USA.
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